from an unused root apparently meaning to dwell together; sexual (cohabitation); duty of marriage.
Transliteration:ʻôwnâh
Pronunciation:o-naw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term ʻôwnâh (`{{H5772}}`) is derived from an unused root that seemingly conveys the idea of "dwelling together" or intimate association. Its primary semantic range is quite specific, referring to "sexual (cohabitation)" and, more pointedly, the "duty of marriage" or "marital rights." This implies not merely the physical act of intercourse but its regular and expected nature as an integral component of the marital covenant. The nuance of "duty" or "right" is crucial, suggesting a reciprocal obligation and entitlement within the marital bond, rather than an optional or purely recreational activity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ʻôwnâh (`{{H5772}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in [[Exodus 21:10]]. This verse is part of a broader section of Mosaic Law dealing with the rights and treatment of various individuals, particularly those in subordinate positions. In this specific context, the law addresses a man who takes a female slave as his wife. If he subsequently takes another wife, the law mandates that he "shall not diminish her food, her clothing, or her marital rights (ʻôwnâh)."
The placement of ʻôwnâh alongside "food" (שְׁאֵר, `{{H7607}}`) and "clothing" (כְּסוּת, `{{H3682}}`) is highly significant. It elevates the provision of conjugal intimacy to the same level of fundamental necessity as basic sustenance and personal dignity. This underscores the profound importance of sexual relations within marriage as a non-negotiable aspect of the husband's responsibility to his wife. Even for a woman who was originally a slave, her marital rights are legally protected, demonstrating God's concern for justice and the well-being of the vulnerable within the marital covenant. The verse highlights the husband's obligation to provide for his wife's sexual needs, implying that this is a right for the wife and a duty for the husband, essential for the maintenance of the marital bond.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ʻôwnâh (`{{H5772}}`) is unique in its directness, the concept of marital intimacy is conveyed through various other Hebrew words and phrases. Euphemisms such as "to know" (יָדַע, `{{H3045}}`, e.g., [[Genesis 4:1]]) emphasize the deep, personal knowledge and union involved in sexual relations. Verbs like "to lie down" (שָׁכַב, `{{H7901}}`, e.g., [[Genesis 19:32]]) or "to come in" (בּוֹא, `{{H935}}`, e.g., [[Genesis 16:2]]) describe the physical act.
The concept of ʻôwnâh is intrinsically linked to the broader biblical understanding of marriage as a "covenant" (בְּרִית, `{{H1285}}`), implying mutual obligations and commitment. It also resonates with the foundational concept of husband and wife becoming "one flesh" (בָּשָׂר אֶחָד, `{{H1320}}` + `{{H259}}`) in [[Genesis 2:24]], where physical union symbolizes a profound and holistic unity. The principle of mutual conjugal "duty" or "debt" found in the New Testament (ὀφειλή, `{{G3788}}` in [[1 Corinthians 7:3-5]]) demonstrates a theological continuity, reinforcing the idea that spouses have reciprocal rights and responsibilities concerning their bodies within the marital bond.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of ʻôwnâh (`{{H5772}}`) in [[Exodus 21:10]] carries significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Mandate for Marital Intimacy:** God's inclusion of ʻôwnâh as a legally protected right underscores that conjugal intimacy is not merely a human convention but an essential, divinely ordained component of the marital covenant. It is part of God's good design for human relationships and flourishing within marriage.
2. **Protection of the Vulnerable:** The context of a slave-wife highlights God's profound concern for justice and the protection of the vulnerable. Even in a societal structure where a woman might have limited rights, her dignity and access to marital intimacy are upheld by divine law.
3. **Holistic View of Marriage:** By placing ʻôwnâh alongside food and clothing, the text presents a holistic understanding of marital provision. Marriage is not solely about procreation or legal status, but encompasses the complete well-being of the spouses, including their physical, emotional, and sexual needs.
4. **Reciprocity and Obligation:** While the immediate context is the husband's duty, the underlying principle of ʻôwnâh points to the mutual and reciprocal obligations within marriage. It emphasizes that intimacy is a shared responsibility and a source of blessing, essential for maintaining the strength and integrity of the marital bond. This anticipates the New Testament's emphasis on mutual submission and giving within marriage ([[Ephesians 5:21-33]], [[1 Corinthians 7:3-5]]).
5. **Sanctity of the Marital Bed:** The legal safeguarding of ʻôwnâh reinforces the sanctity of the marital relationship and the importance of faithfulness and mutual fulfillment within its boundaries.
### Summary
The Hebrew word ʻôwnâh (`{{H5772}}`), though appearing only once in [[Exodus 21:10]], profoundly defines the "marital rights" or "conjugal duty" within the covenant of marriage. Derived from a root implying "dwelling together," it signifies the essential physical intimacy that forms a core component of the marital bond. Its placement alongside provisions for food and clothing elevates sexual cohabitation to a fundamental necessity, underscoring a husband's non-negotiable responsibility to his wife, particularly in the context of protecting the vulnerable. This unique occurrence reveals God's design for a holistic marriage, encompassing physical sustenance, dignity, and intimate union. The theological implications are far-reaching, highlighting God's concern for justice, the sanctity of the marital bed, and the reciprocal obligations that characterize a healthy and divinely honored marital relationship, a principle that resonates throughout biblical teaching on marriage.
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