The Hebrew word bᵉthûwlîym, represented by H1331, refers to virginity. Appearing 10 times across 9 unique verses, this term functions both abstractly to describe a state of being and concretely to denote the physical "tokens" of that state. It is sometimes used idiomatically and translated simply as maid.
In biblical law and narrative, H1331 is applied in several distinct contexts. Within the legal code of Deuteronomy, it is central to adjudicating a husband's accusation that his new wife was not a maid Deuteronomy 22:14. The "tokens of the damsel's virginity" could be presented as physical proof to the city elders (Deuteronomy 22:15, Deuteronomy 22:17). In a cultural context, Jephthah's daughter mourns her fate by going with her companions to "bewail my virginity" Judges 11:37. Prophetically, Ezekiel uses the term as a metaphor for Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness, describing how the nation's virginity was lost through whoredoms in Egypt during its youth (Ezekiel 23:3, Ezekiel 23:8).
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of bᵉthûwlîym:
- H1058 bâkâh (to weep): This verb is directly linked to the cultural value of virginity, as seen when Jephthah's daughter and her companions bewail her H1331 on the mountains Judges 11:37-38.
- H5291 naʻărâh (damsel): This word for a young woman is used throughout the legal proceedings in Deuteronomy where the "tokens of virginity" H1331 of the damsel are at issue (Deuteronomy 22:15, Deuteronomy 22:20).
- H2181 zânâh (to commit whoredoms): This term stands in stark contrast to virginity. Ezekiel frames Israel's idolatry as an act of committing whoredoms in her youth, which defiled her virginity Ezekiel 23:3.
The conceptual significance of H1331 is evident in its legal, prophetic, and ceremonial applications.
- Legal and Social Integrity: In Deuteronomy, the "tokens of virginity" serve as a form of legal evidence, directly affecting a woman's honor and standing. Their presentation before the elders H2205 could refute an evil name H8034 brought against a new wife Deuteronomy 22:14-17.
- Metaphor for Spiritual Fidelity: Ezekiel uses the loss of virginity as a powerful metaphor for covenant-breaking. The nation's early idolatry is described as the bruising of "the teats of their virginity," symbolizing a betrayal of its pure, foundational relationship with God Ezekiel 23:3.
- Requirement for Priestly Holiness: Levitical law commands that a priest must take H3947 a wife H802 "in her virginity" Leviticus 21:13. This links the concept to the high standard of purity required for those serving in a sacred office.
In summary, H1331 carries weight far beyond a simple physical description. It is a cornerstone in legal matters of marriage, a poignant symbol in personal tragedy, and a potent metaphor for the covenant relationship between God and His people. From a tangible piece of evidence in a city gate H8179 to a representation of national fidelity, bᵉthûwlîym demonstrates how scripture invests a physical state with profound legal, cultural, and theological meaning.
TRV