Father in law
“One joined by marriage affinity / one who gives in marriage”
Summary
The father of one's spouse, a significant family relationship in biblical culture that carried expectations of hospitality and mutual respect.
☩Hebrew Terminology
Hebrew uses two different words for father-in-law. The term cham (from chamah, 'to join in affinity') refers to the wife's father (Genesis 38:13, 25; 1 Samuel 4:19). The term chothen (from chatan, 'to marry') refers to one whose daughter is married, used of Jethro in relation to Moses (Exodus 3:1, 18:1-27). The Greek pentheros carries a similar meaning of one related by marriage (John 18:13).
☩Hospitality and Obligation
Fathers-in-law were expected to show hospitality to sons-in-law. The Levite's father-in-law in Bethlehem-judah showed generous hospitality, urging him to stay multiple days (Judges 19:3-9). Moses found refuge with his father-in-law Jethro in Midian, tending his flocks and receiving wise counsel (Exodus 18). This relationship ideally involved mutual respect and assistance.
☩Unjust Treatment
Not all father-in-law relationships were positive. Laban proved unjust to Jacob, deceiving him about Rachel and changing his wages repeatedly (Genesis 29:21-23, 31:7, 39-42). Jacob served Laban fourteen years for his two daughters and additional years for flocks, yet Laban repeatedly altered their agreement. This stands as a warning about exploitation within family relationships.
Related Verses27 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Father-in-law," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).