Quote:
Originally Posted by Praxeas
Yes but not pre-teen.
Young girls married early.
“Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph.”
An espousal or betrothal is the act of engagement for marriage, a formal agreement that may take the form of a verbal promise or a written contract between two individuals. The betrothal is an ancient custom dating from biblical times when marriages were arranged by a parent or guardian. It was considered the beginning of marriage, and since it was legally binding, the pledge could not be broken except by a bill of divorce. This is the reason why Joseph is referred to as the husband of Mary in verse 19 of the first chapter of Matthew.
The presentation of gifts often accompanied or signified a marriage contract. When Abraham’s servant received the consent of Rebekah’s father and brother to make her the wife of his master’s son, he presented valuable gifts to Rebekah (see Genesis 24:53).
In societies where arranged marriages still exist, the families concerned must negotiate dowries, future living arrangements, and other important matters before marriage can be arranged. Espousals were often made very early in life, though marriage did not take place until the bride reached twelve years of age or had experienced her first menstrual cycle. Infant betrothal or marriage, still prevalent in places such as India and Melanesia, is a result of concern for family, caste, and property alliances. During the Middle Ages, arranged betrothals were used to strengthen royal dynasties, establish diplomatic alliances, and increase estates and fortunes. Even when the age was suitable, the marriage was not consummated for some time after the betrothal. The bride remained at her father’s or guardian’s home until the time of the marriage.
Freeman, J. M., & Chadwick, H. J. (1998). Manners & customs of the Bible (397). North Brunswick, NJ: Bridge-Logos Publishers. |
Married teen report stands. Why? She appears to have left her family's and was a part of Joseph's household based on the story that they travelled to Bethlehem together, as a couple, for the census. I highly doubt that they raised any eyebrows along the way. I truly believe that you aren't implying that Joseph was "sneaking a teen girl across state lines" so to speak without being married to her.
Back to topic which is sin, not history, as your colleague (yea you can have him take him please) has said enough times to make one nauseated:
Is the above a sin or not a sin?
Marriage at young ages IS a distasteful practice. I agree. Based on the Bible:
Sinful? Yes or No? I cannot find anything, anywhere, that says that it is.
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