Who Was Jerusalem Wives in the Bible?
In the Bible, the term “Jerusalem wives” specifically refers to the wives and concubines King David took after he established his reign in Jerusalem. This historical account is found in 2 Samuel 5:13: “After he left Hebron, David took more concubines and wives in Jerusalem, and more sons and daughters were born to him.” This verse highlights a significant cultural practice of the time, where kings often had multiple wives and concubines. Understanding this practice requires a deeper look into the historical and cultural context, as well as its theological implications.
David’s Wives and Concubines in Jerusalem
David, the second king of Israel, is a central figure in the Old Testament. After consolidating his power and uniting the tribes of Israel, he made Jerusalem his capital. This strategic and spiritual center became the seat of his expanding kingdom. As was customary for kings in the ancient Near East, David took several wives and concubines, a practice that was common for political alliances and increasing one’s lineage.
The Cultural Context
In ancient times, polygamy was a widespread practice among royalty. It was not only a means of securing political alliances but also of demonstrating wealth and power. Kings would marry daughters of other kings or nobility to solidify alliances and ensure loyalty among the nations. This practice is evident in David’s life, as he took more wives and concubines upon his move to Jerusalem.
Biblical Perspective on Polygamy
While the Bible records the practice of polygamy, it does not necessarily endorse it. In fact, the Bible’s broader narrative and teachings emphasize God’s original design for marriage as monogamous. Genesis 2:24 states, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” This verse underscores the ideal of one man and one woman in a marital relationship.
Despite this ideal, many prominent figures in the Old Testament, including Abraham, Jacob, and Solomon, had multiple wives. These narratives are descriptive rather than prescriptive, meaning they describe what happened without necessarily prescribing it as a model to follow. The complications and conflicts arising from polygamous relationships in these accounts often serve as implicit warnings about deviating from God’s design for marriage.
The Children of David’s Jerusalem Wives
The Bible mentions several children born to David’s wives in Jerusalem. In 1 Chronicles 3:5-9 and 2 Samuel 5:14-16, we find the names of these sons: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet. Among these, Solomon stands out as one of the most significant, as he succeeded David as king and built the first Temple in Jerusalem.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Sanctity of Marriage
The narrative of David’s multiple wives serves as a reminder of the sanctity of marriage as designed by God. Modern Christians are called to uphold the biblical ideal of monogamy, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:25-33). Marriage is intended to be a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman, rooted in mutual love and respect.
The Consequences of Polygamy
David’s story also highlights the negative consequences of polygamy. The rivalries and conflicts among his children, stemming from different mothers, led to significant turmoil in his household and kingdom. These accounts serve as a cautionary tale about the complications and strife that can arise from deviating from God’s design for marriage.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Redemptive Plan
Despite the complexities and sins of individuals, God’s redemptive plan continues to unfold. David, despite his flaws, is remembered as a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). This shows that God can work through imperfect people to achieve His purposes. It also reassures modern Christians that God’s love and redemption are available even when they fall short.
God’s Faithfulness
God’s faithfulness is evident throughout David’s life. Despite his sins and the resulting consequences, God’s covenant with David remained steadfast. This covenant ultimately pointed to Jesus Christ, the descendant of David who would reign eternally. For Christians today, this underscores the assurance that God’s promises are reliable and His grace is sufficient.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Davidic Covenant
The Davidic Covenant is a key component of understanding Jesus’ role as the Messiah. God’s promise to David that his descendants would reign forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16) is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Son of David in the New Testament (Matthew 1:1). Jesus’ lineage, through David, establishes His rightful place as the eternal King.
The Perfect Bridegroom
In contrast to David’s multiple marriages, Jesus is depicted as the perfect Bridegroom. The Church is described as the bride of Christ, emphasizing a singular, devoted relationship (Revelation 19:7-9). This imagery reinforces the call for Christians to maintain purity and faithfulness in their relationship with Jesus.
Conclusion
The story of David and his Jerusalem wives provides rich lessons for modern Christians. It highlights the historical and cultural practices of ancient Israel while underscoring the timeless principles of God’s design for marriage and family. Through David’s lineage, we see the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant. This narrative reminds believers of the importance of faithfulness, the consequences of sin, and the unwavering faithfulness of God, who redeems and fulfills His promises.