The Greek word ekgamískō, represented by G1548, specifically means to give in marriage. It is a compound word derived from ἐκ and γαμίσκω. According to the usage statistics, it is a rare term, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses within the scriptures.
The use of G1548 is found exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, within a single discourse from Jesus. He employs the term to contrast the nature of life in the present age with life after the resurrection. For "the children of this world," it is a normal practice that they "marry, and are given in marriage" Luke 20:34. However, for those who are counted worthy of the world to come and the resurrection, Jesus states they "neither marry, nor are given in marriage" Luke 20:35, indicating that this earthly institution does not extend into the eternal state.
Several related words provide crucial context for understanding the passage where G1548 appears:
- G1060 gaméō (to wed (of either sex):--marry (a wife)): This word is used in direct parallel with G1548 to encompass the institution of marriage. The Lord commands that a wife should not depart from her husband, showing the importance of the union in this life 1 Corinthians 7:10.
- G2661 kataxióō (to deem entirely deserving:--(ac-)count worthy): This term defines the qualification for entering the age to come. It is not a universal inheritance, but for "they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world" Luke 20:35.
- G386 anástasis (a standing up again, i.e. (literally) a resurrection from death): This is the pivotal event that marks the transition to a new form of existence where being given in marriage is obsolete. Jesus identifies himself as "the resurrection, and the life" John 11:25.
The theological weight of G1548 is significant despite its infrequent use, as it clarifies the nature of the age to come.
- The Temporal Nature of Marriage: The explicit contrast in Luke 20 establishes that the act of being given in marriage is a feature of "this world" Luke 20:34 and is not part of the structure of the resurrected life.
- The Resurrection State: The cessation of marriage and being given in marriage in the next life points to a fundamental change in human relationships and existence for those who experience the resurrection G386 from the dead Luke 20:35.
- A Condition of Worthiness: The passage links the attainment of this future state to being accounted worthy G2661, suggesting a moral and spiritual qualification for entering the world where earthly institutions no longer apply Luke 20:35.
In summary, G1548 is a precise term for being given in marriage. Its limited use in Scripture is focused entirely on a single teaching from Jesus that draws a sharp distinction between our current reality and the life that follows the resurrection G386. The word serves to underscore that earthly customs, including marriage, are temporary provisions for this age and will not be carried forward by those accounted worthy G2661 of the world to come.
TRV