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Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Context:
Being engaged, in the context of biblical times, refers to the period of betrothal, a formal agreement to marry. This period was more binding than modern engagements and was considered a significant step towards marriage. Betrothal involved a covenantal promise and was often accompanied by the exchange of gifts or a bride price. The engagement period was a time of preparation and commitment, where the couple was considered legally bound, though they did not yet live together or consummate the marriage.

Biblical References:

1.Betrothal as a Binding Agreement:
In biblical times, betrothal was a legally binding contract. For example, in the case of Mary and Joseph, Mary was described as being "pledged to be married" to Joseph (Matthew 1:18). Despite not yet living together, Joseph is referred to as her husband, indicating the seriousness of the betrothal.

2.Cultural Practices:
The engagement period allowed for the fulfillment of cultural and familial obligations. InGenesis 24, the account of Isaac and Rebekah illustrates the process of betrothal, where Abraham's servant negotiates a marriage agreement with Rebekah's family, highlighting the communal and familial involvement in engagements.

3.Moral and Ethical Expectations:
During the engagement period, the couple was expected to remain faithful to one another.Deuteronomy 22:23-24 discusses the consequences of infidelity during betrothal, treating it with the same seriousness as adultery, thus underscoring the commitment expected during this period.

4.Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:
Engagement is often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe the relationship between God and His people. InHosea 2:19-20, God speaks of betrothing Israel to Himself in righteousness and faithfulness, symbolizing a covenantal relationship marked by love and commitment.

5.Preparation for Marriage:
The engagement period was a time for the couple to prepare for their future life together. In the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), the waiting period for the bridegroom's arrival reflects the anticipation and readiness expected during engagement.

Theological Implications:

Engagement, as depicted in the Bible, emphasizes the sanctity and seriousness of the marriage covenant. It reflects a commitment not only between the individuals but also before God, highlighting the spiritual dimensions of marriage. The betrothal period serves as a time of preparation, reflection, and anticipation, mirroring the believer's relationship with Christ as they await the ultimate union with Him.

Practical Applications:

For Christians today, engagement remains a significant period of preparation and commitment. It is a time to seek God's guidance, build a strong foundation for marriage, and uphold the values of faithfulness and integrity. Engaged couples are encouraged to engage in premarital counseling, prayer, and study of Scripture to ensure their relationship aligns with biblical principles.

Topical Bible Verses

Revelation 19:7-9
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife has made herself ready.
Topicalbible.org

Hebrews 13:4
Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.
Topicalbible.org

Library

Absurd Interpretations of the Marcosians.
... twelve letters, and when it found such a one, the number was completed, is manifest
from the very configuration of the letter; for Lambdabeing engaged, as it...

Of the vision that Appeared to a Certain Man of God Before the...
... He answered, "Being engaged one night lately in watching and singing psalms, on
a sudden I saw one standing by me whose countenance I did not know, and I was...

Meditation vi. The Last Pasch.
... Judas was not aware of this circumstance, becausebeing engaged in plotting his
betrayal of our Lord, he only returned a few moments before the repast, and...

Advice for the Direction of Holy Zeal.
... But Joabbeing engaged, andbeing hot in the pursuit of the victory, with his own
hand slew the poor Absalom, without regard to what the king had said to him....

Against Rash and Vain Swearing.
... perplexity the Holy Scripture affordeth two notable instances: the one of Saul,
forced to break his rash oaths; the other of Herod,being engaged thereby to...

Letter ii.
... if you were a private person no one would indict you for shunning to serve as a
soldier; but now thou art no longer thy own master,being engaged in the...

Chapter viii.
... [18] This thought occurred to Eusebius: "Nor were the apostles of Christ greatly
concerned about the writing of books,being engaged in a more excellent...

Of a Scruple Concerning a Soul's Vocation to a Religious Life. ...
... engage themselves in a state of life unknown to themselves, relying wholly on the
wills and judgment of others; andbeing once a littleengaged, the opinion of...

The Misdoings of Severian
... ruffle. He assures me"and I believe him"that he did not rise simply because
he did not see you,being engaged in writing. His...

"For they that are after the Flesh do Mind the Things of the Flesh...
... in the flesh, some seeds of that evil within, if they were not presented to some
suitableness to our senses, and theybeing onceengaged on Satan's side, they...