The Concubine

What is a Concubine?

In the biblical world, a concubine was considered a legitimate wife, though one of lower standing than a primary wife.

Unlike a primary wife, she was often given to a man without the formal exchange or Mohar (bride price) associated with higher-status marriages. Instead, she might enter the household under particular social or economic circumstances.

Why Was a Concubine Given?

A woman might be given as a concubine for several reasons:

• To settle a debt If the bride’s family owed a debt that could not be repaid through money or property, a daughter might be given as a concubine in compensation.
• Differences in social status When the groom’s family held significantly higher status than the bride’s, the woman might enter the marriage as a concubine rather than a primary wife.

For example, Solomon is described as having many wives of high status, alongside concubines:

“He had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines…”

1 Kings 11:3

• Perceived physical limitations In some cases, a woman who was considered less desirable in marriage negotiations, such as one with a physical impairment, might be given without a Mohar.

For instance, Leah is described as having “delicate eyes”:

“Leah’s eyes were delicate…”

genesis 29:17

Her Status in the Household

A concubine could be married and was considered a legitimate and recognized wife, not a maidservant.

However, she would not be granted the status of senior wife. Her position within the household was lower, even though she remained a part of the family structure.

Unlike a primary wife, she had not entered the household through a formal exchange or Mohar. This distinction contributed to her lower status within the household.

Marriage and Offspring

In a world where producing children was of central importance, marriage was generally expected for women who were able to bear children.

Unlike in modern societies, there was little concept of remaining unmarried. A woman’s ability to bring forth offspring made her a valued part of the household and family line.