Definition
The term ‘family’ in the Bible encompasses a broad range of relationships and social structures. In the New Testament, the Greek words οἰκογένεια (oikogeneia) and οἶκος (oikos) refer to a household or family unit, while in the Old Testament, the Hebrew מִשְׁפָּחָה (mishpachah) often denotes a clan or a larger family lineage.
Commentary and Exegesis
In the New Testament, family extends beyond biological ties, encapsulating the Christian community. Paul’s epistles, for instance, frequently use familial language to describe the church’s relational dynamics. In the Old Testament, family units are pivotal in narratives of lineage and covenantal promises, such as the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants. The evolution of the term from a tribal or lineage-based group in the Old Testament to a more inclusive, spiritual community in the New Testament reflects the broadening scope of God’s redemptive plan. This shift from a physical to a spiritual understanding of family is crucial in Christian theology, emphasizing that faith, rather than bloodline, defines one’s place in God’s family.
Biblical Occurrences in the New Testament
Ephesians 3:15 – “from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named.”
Acts 16:31 – “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
1 Timothy 3:4 – “He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive.”
Biblical Occurrences in the Old Testament
Genesis 12:3 – “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Exodus 1:1 – “These are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each with his household.”
Joshua 7:17 – “And he brought near the family of Judah, and the family of the Zerahites was taken.”
Various Translations
In the King James Version, ‘family’ is often translated as ‘house’ or ‘household’. Contemporary translations like the NIV and ESV tend to use ‘family’ more consistently.
Etymology
The Greek οἰκογένεια (oikogeneia) derives from οἶκος (house) and γένος (kind, race), implying a unit connected by blood and dwelling. The Hebrew מִשְׁפָּחָה (mishpachah) has a broader connotation, often referring to extended kinship networks.
Grammatical Analysis of the English word
‘Family’ is a noun, often used both singularly and plurally to denote a group of individuals connected by blood, marriage, or other social bonds.
Grammatical Analysis
In Greek, οἰκογένεια is a feminine noun, while οἶκος is masculine. In Hebrew, מִשְׁפָּחָה is a feminine noun. These grammatical genders may influence the word’s use and connotation in biblical texts.
Syntax
In both Greek and Hebrew, ‘family’ can function as the subject, object, or possessive in a sentence, demonstrating its centrality in societal and relational contexts.
Typology
Biblically, ‘family’ typifies the idea of unity, belonging, and divine order. It’s often used metaphorically to describe the relationship between God and His people.
Linguistic Variations
In Septuagint translations, the Hebrew מִשְׁפָּחָה is often rendered as οἰκογένεια or συγγένεια (kinship), showing a shift in emphasis from lineage to relational bonds.
Intertextual Connections
The concept of ‘family’ links various biblical themes, such as covenant relationships, inheritance, and communal identity. New Testament references often reinterpret Old Testament familial concepts, emphasizing spiritual kinship in Christ.
Historical Context
The concept of ‘family’ in biblical times was foundational to social and religious life. In ancient Israel, the family was the primary unit of society, vital for survival, inheritance, and identity. In the Greco-Roman world of the New Testament, family structures were also central, though with different social implications, such as Roman patronage systems.
Biblical Narrative Analysis
Throughout the Bible, family narratives serve as vehicles for broader theological and moral teachings. For instance, the Genesis stories of Abraham’s and Jacob’s families set the stage for themes of covenant and faith. In the New Testament, Jesus’ teachings often redefined family relationships in the context of God’s kingdom.
Theological Significance
The family is a key metaphor for understanding God’s relationship with humanity. In the Old Testament, Israel is often depicted as God’s chosen family. In the New Testament, this imagery is expanded to include Gentiles, with the church portrayed as the family of God.
Practical Implications
The biblical concept of family provides a model for Christian community life, emphasizing love, mutual support, and spiritual kinship. It challenges believers to view church relationships as familial, transcending cultural and biological boundaries.
Semantic Range
The semantic range of ‘family’ in the Bible extends from immediate household members to extended kin, tribes, and even metaphorical use to describe the entire community of believers.
Symbolic and Allegorical Interpretations
Symbolically, ‘family’ often represents unity, belonging, and divine order. Allegorically, it can depict the relationship between Christ and the church, with Christ as the bridegroom and the church as his bride.
References
Brown, F., Driver, S.R., & Briggs, C.A. (1906). A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament.” Oxford: Clarendon Press.
Kittel, G., Friedrich, G., & Bromiley, G.W. (1985). “Theological Dictionary of the New Testament.” Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.
Thayer, J.H. (1889). “A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament.” New York: Harper & Brothers.