British English: The meeting of Jacob and Rachel The meeting of Jacob and Racheltitle QS:P1476,en-gb:"The meeting of Jacob and Rachel "label QS:Len-gb,"The meeting of Jacob and Rachel "label QS:Lpt-br,"O encontro de Jacó e Raquel"William Dyce · 1853

Betrothal

/bee-TROH-thul/

Summary

A formal promise of marriage considered legally binding in ancient Israel, requiring a divorce to dissolve.

☩Legal Standing

Betrothal in Jewish custom was a formal agreement, often sealed with a bride price, that created a legally binding relationship. A betrothed woman was considered her future husband's wife, and unfaithfulness during betrothal was treated as adultery.

Key verses:Deuteronomy 22:23-27Matthew 1:18-19

☩Mary and Joseph

Mary was betrothed to Joseph when she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to shame her publicly, considered divorcing her quietly until an angel revealed the divine origin of her pregnancy.

Key verses:Matthew 1:18-20Luke 1:27Luke 2:5

Related Verses4 mentions

Genesis· 1 verse

Deuteronomy· 1 verse

Matthew· 1 verse

Luke· 1 verse

References

1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Betrothal," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).