Featured Snippet Answer:
Concubines in the Bible were women who lived in recognized relationships with men but did not hold the same social or marital status as wives. The Old Testament records concubines among patriarchs, kings, and other prominent men. Scripture describes these relationships without presenting every example as morally approved. Jesus later emphasized God’s original design for marriage as the union of one man and one woman.
Key Takeaways
- A biblical concubine was a woman in a recognized sexual and household relationship with a man who did not have the full status of a primary wife.
- Concubinage appears mainly in the Old Testament and reflects ancient social structures.
- The Bible describes many instances of concubinage, but description does not automatically mean divine approval.
- Abraham, Jacob, Gideon, David, Solomon, and others are associated with concubines in different biblical passages.
- Some stories involving concubines contain serious injustice, violence, jealousy, and family conflict.
- Jesus pointed readers back to God’s creation design for marriage in Genesis.
- The New Testament does not present concubinage as the Christian model for marriage.
- These passages should be studied in their historical and literary context rather than used to justify exploitation or unequal treatment.
What Does Concubine Mean in the Bible?
In the biblical world, a concubine was a woman who had an established sexual and domestic relationship with a man but occupied a lower social and legal position than a full wife.
The Hebrew Bible commonly uses the term pilegesh for a concubine. The exact social arrangements could vary across ancient cultures and periods, so the modern word should not be assumed to capture every detail of an ancient relationship.
For example, Genesis records Jacob’s relationships with Bilhah and Zilpah, while later passages mention the concubines of kings such as David and Solomon.
Importantly, the Bible does not give a single passage saying, “God commands men to have concubines.” Instead, Scripture records the practice within the social world of ancient Israel and its surrounding cultures.
That distinction is essential when reading these passages responsibly.
A Simple Definition
A biblical concubine was generally a woman whose relationship with a man had recognized household and sexual dimensions but whose status was below that of a principal wife.
Why Did Concubinage Exist in Biblical Times?
Concubinage developed within ancient societies where family structure, inheritance, political alliances, reproduction, household labor, and social status were closely connected.
Marriage was not understood only as a private romantic relationship. It could also involve family alliances, children, inheritance, protection, property, and community responsibilities.
As a result, relationships that seem unfamiliar today could exist within ancient household structures.
Genesis provides several examples.
- Genesis 16:1–4 records Hagar’s relationship with Abraham.
- Genesis 22:24 mentions Reumah as Nahor’s concubine.
- Genesis 25:6 refers to Abraham’s concubines.
- Genesis 30:3–4 records Bilhah’s relationship with Jacob.
- Genesis 30:9–10 records Zilpah’s relationship with Jacob.
These passages show that concubinage was present in the patriarchal period.
However, Scripture also repeatedly shows that these complicated household arrangements could produce jealousy, rivalry, suffering, and family division.
Concubines in the Old Testament
The Old Testament contains the majority of biblical references to concubines.
Abraham and Hagar
Hagar is one of the most discussed examples. Genesis 16 describes Sarah giving Hagar to Abraham because Sarah was unable to have children at that point.
Genesis 16:2: “Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing.”
Hagar subsequently conceived Ishmael.
The story, however, quickly becomes painful. Sarah and Hagar experienced conflict, and Hagar eventually fled into the wilderness.
God met Hagar there.
Genesis 16:13: “Thou God seest me.”
This passage reminds readers that God sees people who may be socially vulnerable or marginalized.
Jacob, Bilhah, and Zilpah
Jacob’s family provides another example.
Genesis 30:4: “And she gave him Bilhah her handmaid to wife.”
Later, Jacob’s relationship with Bilhah is described in connection with Rachel’s desire for children.
Likewise, Leah gave Zilpah to Jacob.
These relationships contributed to the births of several sons who became associated with the tribes of Israel.
Yet the larger Jacob narrative is also filled with rivalry between Rachel and Leah. The account therefore shows both the historical practice and the emotional consequences of complicated family structures.
Concubines and Israel’s Kings
Concubinage became particularly visible in the royal period.
David had wives and concubines, and Solomon’s household became even larger.
2 Samuel 5:13: “And David took him more concubines and wives out of Jerusalem.”
1 Kings 11:3: “And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines.”
These passages demonstrate that concubines could also be associated with royal status and political households.
However, Solomon’s story contains an important warning.
The same chapter explains that his wives turned his heart toward other gods.
1 Kings 11:4: “His wives turned away his heart after other gods.”
Therefore, the biblical narrative does not simply celebrate the size of Solomon’s household. Instead, it connects his choices with serious spiritual consequences.
The Story of the Levite’s Concubine
One of the darkest passages involving a concubine appears in Judges 19.
Judges 19:2: “And his concubine played the whore against him, and went away from him.”
The chapter eventually describes horrific violence against the woman.
This account is not presented as a model for relationships. Rather, it forms part of the deeply disturbing narrative of Israel during the period when moral and social disorder had become widespread.
The repeated statement near the end of Judges is significant:
Judges 21:25: “Every man did that which was right in his own eyes.”
The story therefore illustrates what can happen when human beings abandon justice, protection of the vulnerable, and covenant responsibility.
What the Bible Says About the Treatment of Women
Concubinage passages should also be read alongside biblical teachings about justice and human dignity.
Genesis 1:27: “Male and female created he them.”
This foundational statement gives both men and women dignity as people created in God’s image.
Likewise:
Micah 6:8: “To do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”
Zechariah 7:9: “Execute true judgment, and shew mercy and compassions every man to his brother.”
These principles matter when interpreting difficult Old Testament narratives.
A biblical account can tell us that something happened without telling us that every action within the story should be imitated.
That distinction is particularly important with concubinage.
Does the Bible Approve of Concubines?
The Bible records concubinage, but recording a practice is not the same as commanding it.
This principle can be seen throughout Scripture. Biblical narratives frequently describe human decisions, including deception, violence, jealousy, polygamy, adultery, and political corruption, without presenting those actions as God’s ideal.
The creation account gives an important starting point.
Genesis 2:24: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife.”
Jesus later quoted this passage when discussing marriage.
Matthew 19:5: “For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife.”
Therefore, Christians should distinguish between what Scripture reports happened and what Scripture presents as God’s intended pattern.
Jesus’ Teaching Gives a Different Perspective
Jesus did not give a detailed teaching specifically about concubines. However, His teaching about marriage is highly relevant.
When questioned about divorce, Jesus went back to creation rather than treating every existing social practice as the ideal.
Matthew 19:4: “Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female?”
He then referred to Genesis 2:24.
Jesus’ approach is important because it directs attention toward God’s creation purpose.
Marriage and Covenant
Jesus described marriage as a profound union rather than simply a social arrangement.
Matthew 19:6: “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
Consequently, Christian discussions of concubinage should begin with the biblical theology of marriage rather than merely with ancient household customs.
What Does the New Testament Say About Sexual Relationships?
The New Testament consistently emphasizes sexual faithfulness, marriage, self-control, and mutual responsibility.
1 Corinthians 7:2: “Let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.”
Paul also teaches that husbands and wives have responsibilities toward one another.
1 Corinthians 7:3: “Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.”
The emphasis is mutual rather than exploitative.
Hebrews likewise teaches:
Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled.”
These teachings do not establish concubinage as a Christian practice. Instead, the New Testament’s sexual ethic centers on faithful marriage and holiness.
How Many Concubines Did Solomon Have?
According to 1 Kings 11:3, Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines.
The verse is one of the clearest numerical references to concubinage in Scripture.
However, the important lesson is not merely the number. The surrounding chapter explains that Solomon’s relationships contributed to spiritual compromise.
1 Kings 11:9: “The LORD was angry with Solomon.”
This illustrates a recurring biblical pattern: wealth, power, and status do not protect a person from spiritual consequences.
Solomon’s wisdom was extraordinary, but Scripture still records his failure.
David and His Concubines
David also had concubines.
2 Samuel 5:13 states that David took additional wives and concubines after establishing himself in Jerusalem.
Later, David’s son Absalom publicly took possession of his father’s concubines during his rebellion.
2 Samuel 16:22: “So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house.”
This event demonstrates that royal concubines could become connected to political power and succession.
The story also reveals how women could become caught in conflicts created by powerful men.
Concubines and Family Conflict
Several biblical stories show that complicated household arrangements could create significant tension.
Jacob’s family experienced competition between Rachel and Leah.
Abraham’s household experienced conflict involving Sarah and Hagar.
David’s family suffered enormous consequences from his relationships, parenting failures, and political conflicts.
Solomon’s enormous household eventually became connected with idolatry.
These stories suggest an important interpretive principle:
Biblical narratives often show consequences without presenting those consequences as God’s ideal.
Therefore, readers should look beyond the mere presence of concubines and examine what happens around them.
What Can Christians Learn From These Difficult Passages?
The passages about concubines can feel uncomfortable. Nevertheless, they contain important lessons.
1. Scripture Tells the Truth About Human History
The Bible does not hide the failures of its major figures.
Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon are all remembered for both faith and serious mistakes.
2. God Sees Vulnerable People
Hagar’s story provides a powerful example.
When Hagar was suffering in the wilderness, God saw her.
Genesis 16:13: “Thou God seest me.”
This truth can encourage people who feel overlooked or powerless.
3. Power Does Not Equal Righteousness
Kings could possess enormous households, but royal authority did not make every action morally right.
Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goeth before destruction.”
Biblical leadership ultimately requires accountability to God.
4. God’s People Are Called to Justice
Isaiah 1:17: “Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed.”
This principle remains relevant when Christians consider relationships, authority, marriage, and the treatment of vulnerable people.
Concubines in the Bible: Important Verses
| Scripture | Context | Key Lesson |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 16:2 | Sarah and Hagar | Human relationships can become complicated through attempts to solve problems independently. |
| Genesis 16:13 | Hagar encounters God | God sees people who feel overlooked. |
| Genesis 22:24 | Reumah | Concubinage existed in the patriarchal period. |
| Genesis 25:6 | Abraham’s concubines | Ancient households could have complex family structures. |
| Genesis 30:4 | Bilhah | Jacob’s household reflected ancient customs. |
| Genesis 30:9 | Zilpah | Family rivalry shaped these relationships. |
| Genesis 35:22 | Bilhah | The account records serious family conflict. |
| Judges 8:31 | Gideon’s concubine | Powerful men could have complicated households. |
| Judges 19:2 | Levite’s concubine | The story exposes severe social injustice. |
| 2 Samuel 3:7 | Rizpah | Concubines could be connected to royal succession disputes. |
| 2 Samuel 5:13 | David | David expanded his household in Jerusalem. |
| 2 Samuel 16:22 | Absalom | Concubines became involved in political conflict. |
| 2 Samuel 20:3 | David’s concubines | The consequences of political upheaval affected women directly. |
| 1 Kings 11:3 | Solomon | Solomon had 300 concubines. |
| 1 Kings 11:4 | Solomon | His relationships contributed to spiritual compromise. |
| Genesis 2:24 | Creation design | Marriage is presented as a covenantal union. |
| Matthew 19:4 | Jesus and creation | Jesus points back to God’s original design. |
| Matthew 19:6 | Marriage | Marriage is treated as a serious union before God. |
| 1 Corinthians 7:2 | Paul on marriage | Sexual relationships are placed within marriage. |
| 1 Corinthians 7:3 | Mutual responsibility | Marriage involves reciprocal responsibility. |
| Hebrews 13:4 | Honor of marriage | Marriage is treated as honorable. |
| Ephesians 5:25 | Husband’s love | Christian marriage is connected with sacrificial love. |
| Ephesians 5:33 | Mutual honor | Marriage involves love and respect. |
| Colossians 3:19 | Husband’s responsibility | Husbands are warned against harsh treatment. |
| 1 Peter 3:7 | Marriage and honor | Husbands are instructed to honor their wives. |
| Micah 6:8 | Justice | God’s people are called to practice justice and mercy. |
| Isaiah 1:17 | Protecting the vulnerable | Biblical faith includes pursuing justice. |
| Proverbs 31:8–9 | Defending others | God’s people should speak for those who need protection. |
| Genesis 1:27 | Human dignity | Men and women are created in God’s image. |
| Galatians 3:28 | Spiritual equality | All believers share equal standing in Christ. |
A Christian View of Concubinage Today
Christians do not need to recreate ancient social structures to understand these passages.
Instead, the biblical material should encourage careful reading of Scripture, respect for human dignity, faithfulness in marriage, and protection of vulnerable people.
Modern relationships should not be justified simply because a similar practice appears somewhere in an Old Testament narrative.
The New Testament points believers toward holiness, self-control, sacrificial love, and faithful relationships.
Ephesians 5:25: “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church.”
This provides a very different relational emphasis from relationships based primarily on status, possession, or power.
How Should You Study Difficult Bible Passages?
When you encounter passages about concubines or other unfamiliar ancient practices, consider these steps:
- Read the entire chapter, rather than isolating one verse.
- Identify who is speaking and acting.
- Separate description from instruction.
- Consider the historical setting.
- Compare the passage with broader biblical teaching.
- Look at how later Scripture develops the theme.
- Notice the consequences of the characters’ decisions.
- Avoid forcing modern assumptions onto ancient terminology.
- Pray for wisdom while studying difficult passages.
- Compare several responsible translations and study resources.
This approach can prevent many misunderstandings.
What These Stories Teach About God’s Character
Although the subject can be difficult, these passages reveal several important truths about God.
And Scripture consistently moves readers toward righteousness, faithfulness, mercy, and obedience.
Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart.”
For readers struggling with painful experiences connected to relationships, these truths can be deeply encouraging.
Reflection and Bible Study Questions
Consider these questions as you study concubines in the Bible:
- Why do you think Scripture records uncomfortable stories instead of hiding them?
- What is the difference between describing an ancient practice and commanding it?
- What can Hagar’s experience teach us about God’s awareness of suffering?
- How did household rivalry affect the families of Abraham and Jacob?
- What can Solomon’s story teach about the dangers of unchecked desire?
- How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19 shape the Christian understanding of marriage?
- What does Scripture teach about protecting vulnerable people?
- How can you read difficult biblical passages without removing them from their context?
Journaling about these questions can turn a difficult passage into an opportunity for deeper biblical understanding.
A Short Prayer for Wisdom in Understanding Scripture
Heavenly Father,
Give us wisdom when we encounter difficult passages in Your Word. Help us understand Scripture in its proper context and distinguish between what the Bible records and what it teaches as Your righteous purpose.
Give us compassionate hearts toward people who have experienced suffering and injustice. Help us value faithfulness, truth, mercy, purity, and justice.
Teach us to study Your Word carefully and to apply its wisdom with humility.
Amen.
FAQs About Concubines in the Bible
1. What is a concubine in the Bible?
A concubine was generally a woman who had a recognized sexual and household relationship with a man while holding a lower social status than a principal wife. The practice appears mainly in Old Testament narratives and reflects ancient social structures.
2. Did God command men to have concubines?
Scripture records men having concubines, but it does not present a general command requiring men to practice concubinage. Biblical narratives must be distinguished from direct moral instructions.
3. Who had concubines in the Bible?
Several biblical figures are associated with concubines, including Abraham, Jacob, Gideon, David, and Solomon. Their individual circumstances differ, so they should not all be interpreted identically.
4. How many concubines did Solomon have?
According to 1 Kings 11:3, Solomon had 300 concubines in addition to 700 wives.
5. Was Hagar Abraham’s concubine?
Hagar was Sarah’s Egyptian servant who became Abraham’s partner and the mother of Ishmael. Genesis 16 describes their relationship, although the terminology and social status should be understood within the ancient Near Eastern context.
6. Does the Bible say concubinage was God’s ideal?
The Bible records concubinage but does not present it as the central creation pattern for marriage. Genesis 2:24 and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19 direct attention toward the union of husband and wife.
7. Why did biblical men have concubines?
Ancient concubinage could be connected with household structure, children, social status, inheritance, and other cultural practices. However, the Bible also records significant conflict and suffering associated with some of these relationships.
8. Did Jesus approve of concubines?
Jesus did not specifically teach a doctrine approving concubinage. When discussing marriage, He appealed to God’s creation design in Genesis and emphasized the serious union between husband and wife.
9. What happened to the Levite’s concubine?
Judges 19 records a horrific episode of abuse and violence against the Levite’s concubine. The narrative belongs to the morally chaotic period of Judges and should not be interpreted as biblical approval of the actions described.
10. What is the main lesson of concubines in the Bible?
One major lesson is that biblical narratives must be read in context. Scripture records real human behavior, including painful and sinful behavior, while also revealing God’s concern for justice, faithfulness, mercy, and human dignity.
Concubines in the Bible: A Thoughtful Conclusion
The subject of concubines in the Bible is difficult because it belongs to an ancient world with social structures very different from those of modern society. Scripture records concubines among patriarchs, judges, and kings, yet these accounts should not automatically be interpreted as divine approval of every relationship described.
Instead, the larger biblical story provides important perspective. God created men and women in His image, Jesus pointed back to God’s design for marriage, and the New Testament emphasizes faithfulness, holiness, mutual responsibility, love, and honor.
At the same time, stories such as Hagar’s remind us that God sees people who are vulnerable or overlooked. The difficult narratives of Judges, David, and Solomon also demonstrate the consequences that can follow when power, desire, and human decisions are separated from righteousness.
Ultimately, these passages invite Christians to study Scripture carefully rather than quickly judging ancient customs by isolated verses. As you explore difficult biblical topics, seek context, pray for wisdom, and remember the broader message of Scripture: God calls His people to truth, justice, mercy, faithfulness, and love.
