Wife Definition Bible
The definition of a wife in the Bible is multifaceted and has evolved over time. In the Old Testament, a wife was primarily seen as a helper and companion to her husband. She was responsible for managing the household, raising the children, and providing sexual intimacy. In the New Testament, the role of a wife is expanded to include being a spiritual partner and a helpmeet to her husband.
Wife's Role in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, a wife was considered to be her husband's property. She was not allowed to own property or make decisions without her husband's consent. Her primary role was to serve her husband and to provide him with children.
Proverbs 31:10-31 gives a detailed description of a virtuous wife. She is described as a hard worker, a good manager of her household, and a loving and supportive wife. She is also a source of wisdom and strength for her husband.
Wife's Role in the New Testament
In the New Testament, the role of a wife is expanded to include being a spiritual partner and a helpmeet to her husband. She is no longer seen as merely a servant or a possession, but as an equal partner in marriage.
Ephesians 5:22-33 instructs wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord. This does not mean that wives are to be subservient to their husbands, but that they are to respect their husbands and to support them in their roles as leaders of the family.
Titus 2:3-5 instructs older women to teach younger women how to be good wives and mothers. They are to teach them to be submissive to their husbands, to love their children, to be self-controlled, and to be chaste.
The definition of a wife in the Bible has evolved over time, but the core principles remain the same. A wife is a helper, a companion, and a spiritual partner to her husband. She is to be a source of love, support, and wisdom for him.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wife Definition in the Bible
What is the biblical definition of a wife?
The Bible defines a wife as a woman who is married to a man. She is to be his companion, helper, and support. She is to submit to her husband's leadership and respect his authority. She is also to be faithful to him and love him unconditionally.
What are the roles and responsibilities of a wife?
The Bible teaches that a wife has several roles and responsibilities. These include:
- Being a companion to her husband
- Helping her husband in his work
- Supporting her husband emotionally and spiritually
- Submitting to her husband's leadership
- Respecting her husband's authority
- Being faithful to her husband
- Loving her husband unconditionally
What are the qualities of a godly wife?
The Bible teaches that a godly wife possesses several qualities. These include:
- Being virtuous
- Being wise
- Being compassionate
- Being patient
- Being kind
- Being forgiving
- Being hospitable
- Being humble