Online Resource Library
Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Matthew 1:18 - 1:18
(Show All Books | Show All Chapters)
This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
Espoused (μνηστευθείσης: Rev., betrothed; Tynd., maryed)
The narrative implies a distinction between betrothal and marriage. From the moment of her betrothal a woman was treated as if actually married. The union could be dissolved only by regular divorce. Breach of faithfulness was regarded as adultery, and was punishable with death (Deu 22:23, Deu 22:24), and the woman's property became virtually that of her betrothed, unless he had expressly renounced it; but, even in that ease, he was her natural heir.