Deuteronomy 25:8

Then the elders of his city shall summon him and speak with him. If he persists and says, "I do not want to marry her,"

Study Bible

Then the elders of his city
The term "elders" refers to the respected leaders or judges within the community, often older men who held positions of authority and wisdom. In ancient Israelite society, elders played a crucial role in maintaining justice and order. The Hebrew word for "elders" is "זְקֵנִים" (zəqēnîm), which implies not only age but also experience and respect. The phrase "of his city" indicates the local governance structure, where each city had its own council of elders responsible for addressing legal and social issues. This reflects the decentralized nature of Israelite society, where local leaders were entrusted with significant authority.

shall summon him
The act of summoning indicates a formal and authoritative call to appear before the elders. The Hebrew root "קָרָא" (qārā') means to call or proclaim, suggesting a public and official action. This summoning is not merely an invitation but a requirement, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. It underscores the communal responsibility to uphold the law and ensure justice, as the elders act as representatives of the community's moral and legal standards.

and speak with him
The phrase "speak with him" implies a dialogue or discussion rather than a one-sided declaration. The Hebrew verb "דָּבַר" (dābar) means to speak or converse, indicating an attempt to reason with the individual. This reflects the compassionate and patient approach of the elders, who seek to understand and persuade rather than immediately judge or condemn. It highlights the importance of communication and understanding in resolving disputes and maintaining harmony within the community.

If he persists
The word "persists" suggests a continued or stubborn refusal. The Hebrew root "עָמַד" (ʿāmad) means to stand or remain, indicating a firm stance. This persistence reveals the individual's determination or obstinacy, which the elders must address. It underscores the tension between personal will and communal responsibility, as the individual's decision has broader implications for the family and community.

and says, ‘I do not want to marry her,’
This phrase captures the crux of the issue: the man's refusal to fulfill his duty of levirate marriage. The Hebrew verb "אָבָה" (ʾābāh) means to be willing or consent, and its negation here indicates a lack of willingness. The levirate marriage, as outlined in Deuteronomy 25:5-10, was a duty to preserve the family line and provide for the widow. The man's refusal disrupts this social and familial obligation, highlighting the tension between individual choice and communal duty. This refusal necessitates the elders' intervention to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable, reflecting the biblical emphasis on community, family, and the care for widows.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elders of the City
These are the respected leaders or judges within the community who are responsible for maintaining justice and order. In ancient Israel, elders played a crucial role in legal and social matters.

2. The Brother-in-Law
The man who is being addressed by the elders. He is the brother of the deceased husband and is expected to marry the widow to carry on his brother's name, a practice known as levirate marriage.

3. The Widow
The woman whose husband has died without leaving a male heir. According to the custom, she is to be married by her brother-in-law to ensure the continuation of her deceased husband's lineage.

4. The City
Represents the local community where the family resides. It is the setting for the legal and social proceedings described in the verse.

5. Levirate Marriage
An ancient custom where a man is obliged to marry his brother's widow if the brother dies without a male heir. This practice is intended to preserve the family line and provide for the widow.

Teaching Points

The Role of Community in Justice
The involvement of the city elders underscores the importance of community in upholding justice and social order. It reminds us of the need for accountability and wise counsel in our own communities.

Family Responsibility and Duty
The expectation placed on the brother-in-law highlights the value of family responsibility and duty. In our lives, we are called to care for and support our family members, especially in times of need.

Respect for Individual Choice
While there is a cultural expectation, the brother-in-law's choice is respected, showing the balance between duty and personal freedom. This teaches us to respect individual decisions while understanding communal expectations.

Preservation of Legacy
The practice of levirate marriage emphasizes the importance of preserving family legacy and heritage. We are encouraged to consider how we can contribute to the legacy of our own families and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the elders in Deuteronomy 25:8 reflect the importance of community leadership in resolving disputes today?

2. In what ways does the concept of levirate marriage challenge or affirm our understanding of family responsibilities in modern society?

3. How can we balance personal freedom with communal expectations in our own lives, as seen in the brother-in-law's decision?

4. What lessons can we learn from the practice of levirate marriage about preserving family legacy and heritage?

5. How do the accounts of Tamar and Ruth provide deeper insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of levirate marriage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 38
The account of Tamar and Judah provides an early example of levirate marriage, highlighting its importance in preserving family lineage.

Ruth 4
The account of Boaz and Ruth illustrates the practice of levirate marriage and the role of the kinsman-redeemer, emphasizing the themes of loyalty and redemption.

Matthew 22:23-33
Jesus discusses the concept of levirate marriage with the Sadducees, using it to teach about the resurrection and eternal life.