### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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