The Hebrew word ʻôwnâh, represented by H5772, specifically refers to the duty of marriage. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its sole occurrence particularly significant. The term is understood to come from a root meaning "to dwell together" and denotes the sexual cohabitation that is a right and duty within marriage.
The single use of H5772 is found in the legal codes of the Torah. In Exodus 21:10, the law addresses a situation where a man takes a second wife, outlining the protections afforded to the first wife. The verse states, "If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish." This context places marital relations on the same level of essential rights as sustenance and clothing, establishing it as a foundational obligation that cannot be withheld.
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the scope of this marital obligation:
- H7607 shᵉʼêr (flesh; food; kindred by blood): Appearing as "her food" in Exodus 21:10, this word establishes the husband's duty to provide physical nourishment. It is listed alongside raiment and marital duty as a core responsibility.
- H3682 kᵉçûwth (a cover (garment); a veiling): This word, translated as "her raiment," refers to the provision of clothing and covering. Its inclusion with food and marital duty illustrates a holistic view of a husband's obligations.
- H1639 gâraʻ (to scrape off; remove, lessen, withhold): This verb governs the entire clause in Exodus 21:10, forbidding a husband from diminishing these three essential rights. The same word is used to prohibit taking away from God's commandments Deuteronomy 4:2, highlighting the seriousness of the command.
- H3947 lâqach (to take): This verb, which begins the verse, sets up the legal scenario. It means to take in a wide variety of applications, and here it specifically refers to the act of taking a wife Exodus 21:10.
The theological and legal weight of H5772 is significant despite its rarity.
- Covenantal Right: Its placement within the Law codifies marital intimacy not just as a desire but as a legal right and duty. It is an integral, non-negotiable component of the marriage covenant.
- Protection for the Vulnerable: The law in Exodus 21:10 explicitly protects the rights of a wife who might otherwise be neglected. It ensures her essential needs—physical, material, and relational—are met, reflecting a principle of justice.
- Holistic Provision: By listing food, clothing, and conjugal rights together, the text defines marital care in a comprehensive way. It implies that a spouse cannot be truly cared for if any of these foundational provisions are withheld.
In summary, H5772 is a precise legal term for the "duty of marriage." Its singular appearance in Exodus 21:10 is powerful, establishing sexual cohabitation as a fundamental right within marriage, equal in importance to food and clothing. This word demonstrates how the law provides a framework for justice and holistic care within the most foundational human relationships, defining marriage as a covenant of binding responsibility.
TRV