Does the Tanakh or the Ketuvim Netzarim (Nazarene Writings) endorse polygamy (having more than one spouse) or polygyny (a man having more than one wife)? The video link below is from 119 Ministries, and attempts to answer this important question. It is not our video, nor do we necessarily concur with every teaching from 119 Ministries. However, this study seems quite timely, and although this new teaching is part of their “Answering Atheists” series, proponents of polygyny seem to be becoming vocal from within the Messianic/Ephraimite/Netzarim community.
If you don’t have time to watch the video and just want to know if 119 Ministries if for it or against it, here is their conclusion:
In conclusion, with regard to the question, “Does the Bible Endorse Polygamy,” here is what we’ve learned:
– We’ve established that polygamy is a clear deviation from God’s original design for marriage as established in Creation, to which Yeshua and Paul agree.
– We’ve established that Paul clearly interprets the Torah to instruct against polygamy, going as far to say that a man is not above reproach unless he is married no more than just one wife.
– We’ve established that the Bible does, in fact, appear to explicitly prohibit the practice of polygamy in Leviticus 18:18, which justifies Paul’s position.
– We’ve established that polygamy is painted in a negative light and discouraged throughout the Bible.
– And finally, we’ve established that the passages in which polygamy might seem to be approved by God have been misunderstood.
– Therefore, we believe the answer to this question is an obvious NO. Polygamy was never endorsed, not then and not now. Our conclusion is, for whatever it is worth, that the Bible prohibits it, and it is contrary to God’s will and design for marriage.
I thought one of the most important points of the study was 119’s exegesis of Vayiqra/Leviticus 18:18, and the interpretation of the Hebrew phrase transliterated at ishah el-achotah that occurs in that passage, and several other places in the Tanakh.
You may watch the full video at the link below or download a copy of the transcript in pdf format here.