### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yᵉbêmeth**, represented by `{{H2994}}`, refers to a **brother's wife** or **sister in law**. It appears 5 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. This term is highly specific, primarily used within the context of levirate marriage, a law designed to provide heirs for a man who dies childless.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its legal context, `{{H2994}}` is central to the law outlined in Deuteronomy. If a man does not like `{{H2654}}` to take `{{H3947}}` his brother's widow, the **brother's wife** `{{H2994}}` has the right to go up `{{H5927}}` before the elders `{{H2205}}` and formally state his refusal [[Deuteronomy 25:7]]. This initiates a public ceremony where the **brother's wife** `{{H2994}}` shall come `{{H5066}}` to him, loose `{{H2502}}` his shoe `{{H5275}}`, and spit `{{H3417}}` in his face `{{H6440}}` as a mark of shame for his failure to build up `{{H1129}}` his brother's house [[Deuteronomy 25:9]]. In a narrative context, the word is used by Naomi to describe Orpah, urging Ruth to return `{{H7725}}` after `{{H310}}` her **sister in law** `{{H2994}}` [[Ruth 1:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and context of the `{{H2994}}`:
* `{{H2993}}` **yâbâm** (husband's brother): The male counterpart to the sister-in-law. The law in [[Deuteronomy 25:7]] is initiated when the **husband's brother** refuses `{{H3985}}` his duty.
* `{{H2992}}` **yâbam** (perform the duty of a husband's brother): This is the specific action required of the brother-in-law, which the man in [[Deuteronomy 25:7]] refuses to do.
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This foundational relationship is the basis for the entire law, which aims to preserve the name and lineage of a deceased **brother** [[Deuteronomy 25:9]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): The ultimate purpose of this law is to "build up" `{{H1129}}` the deceased brother's **house**, meaning his family line and heritage [[Deuteronomy 25:9]].
### Theological Significance
The term `{{H2994}}` carries significant weight regarding familial and covenantal obligations.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The primary function of the law involving the **brother's wife** is to "raise up unto his brother a name in Israel" `{{H8034}}` [[Deuteronomy 25:7]]. This ensured the continuation of the family line and that the deceased's name would not be forgotten.
* **Legal Agency of a Widow:** The law grants the **brother's wife** `{{H2994}}` a distinct legal voice. She can go up `{{H5927}}` to the elders `{{H2205}}` at the gate `{{H8179}}` and publicly hold her brother-in-law accountable, demonstrating her recognized standing within the community [[Deuteronomy 25:7]].
* **A Symbol of Familial Duty:** In the book of Ruth, the term **sister in law** `{{H2994}}` is used to contrast Orpah's departure with Ruth's profound loyalty. Naomi tells Ruth to return `{{H7725}}` after `{{H310}}` her **sister in law** [[Ruth 1:15]], but Ruth's decision to stay highlights a commitment that transcends mere legal obligation.
### Summary
In summary, **Yᵉbêmeth** `{{H2994}}` is not merely a label for a sister-in-law. It is a specific legal and social designation for a widow entitled to the protection and provision of her deceased husband's family through levirate marriage. The term is essential for understanding biblical concepts of inheritance, the preservation of a family's name `{{H8034}}`, and the responsibilities inherent in kinship. Its use in both law and narrative illustrates its importance in the fabric of Israelite society.
TRV