If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband’s brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband’s brother unto her.
If brothers live together and one of them dies without having children, his widow must not marry someone outside the family. Instead, her dead husband's brother should marry her and fulfill his duty as a brother-in-law to her.
This verse establishes that when a married man dies childless, his brother should marry the widow to continue the family line and provide for her.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israelite society, family lineage and inheritance were crucial for maintaining tribal lands and identity, as land was tied to family names and God's promises to the patriarchs. This law, part of the Mosaic code in Deuteronomy, addressed the issue of a man dying without children by requiring his brother to marry the widow, ensuring the deceased's name and property continued within the family. This practice protected vulnerable widows from poverty and preserved social stability in a patriarchal culture.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.