Espousal; Espouse
TextsWhat is the meaning of Espousal; Espouse in the Bible?
Espousal and espouse denote the state of betrothal or marriage, with the American Standard Revised Version distinguishing between the two stages while the King James Version applies the term to both.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the distinction between betrothal and marriage clarifies the legal and social status of individuals in biblical narratives, such as the relationship between Joseph and Mary before their cohabitation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Espousal; Espouse functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Espousal; Espouse in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Espousal; Espouse clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Espousal; Espouse." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/espousal-espouse/