masculine plural of the same as בְּתוּלָה; (collectively and abstractly) virginity; by implication and concretely, the tokens of it; [idiom] maid, virginity.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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