The Greek word epigambreúō, represented by G1918, is defined as to form an affinity with, or specifically, to marry in a levirate way. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse of the Bible. The word is constructed from other Greek terms for "upon" and "marriage," underscoring the legal and familial duty of marrying a deceased kinsman's widow.
The single biblical use of G1918 is found in Matthew 22:24, where the Sadducees question Jesus about the resurrection by citing a law from the Hebrew scriptures. They state, "Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother." This context establishes the practice as a recognized part of the law given by Moses, with the specific purpose of continuing a family line that would otherwise end.
Several related words within this passage help clarify the concept of levirate marriage:
- G80 adelphós (a brother): This term is central to the command, as the duty to marry the widow falls specifically to the deceased man's brother Matthew 22:24.
- G1135 gynḗ (a wife): This word identifies the woman in the levirate union, the wife of the man who died Matthew 22:24. Her remarriage is the mechanism by which the law is fulfilled.
- G4690 spérma (seed): This term defines the ultimate goal of the marriage, which is to produce offspring, or seed, for the deceased brother. The concept of a promised seed is a vital theological thread running through scripture Galatians 3:16.
- G5043 téknon (a child): The absence of children is the specific condition that activates this law, as the verse specifies the man died "having no children" Matthew 22:24.
The theological weight of G1918 is understood entirely through its singular context, which highlights several principles:
- Continuity of Lineage: The primary function of this law is to "raise up seed unto his brother" Matthew 22:24. This reflects the biblical importance of preserving family names and lines, a theme connected to the covenant promises made to Abraham regarding his seed Galatians 3:29.
- Fulfilling the Law: The practice is introduced with the words, "Moses said" Matthew 22:24, grounding it firmly in the Mosaic Law. It represents a legal and social obligation intended to provide stability and continuity for families within the covenant nation of Israel.
- Legacy and Heirs: The law is triggered when a man dies without children G5043. This underscores the value placed on having heirs to carry on a name and inheritance, a foundational element of social structure in the Old Testament.
In summary, G1918 is a highly specific term for the act of levirate marriage. While it appears only once, its use in Matthew 22:24 illuminates a significant cultural and legal practice from the law of Moses. The word and its context reveal a deep-seated biblical emphasis on the importance of family continuity, the responsibility to produce heirs, and the covenantal significance of preserving one's lineage.
TRV