מָהַר

מָהַר

to bargain (for a wife), i.e. to wed

Definition

The Hebrew verb מָהַר (mâhar) specifically means to acquire a wife by paying a bride-price, a formal transaction that constituted betrothal or marriage in ancient Israelite society. It appears only once in the Old Testament in Exodus 22:16, where it describes the legal and financial obligation of a man who seduces an unbetrothed virgin: he must 'pay the bride-price' (mâhar) for her to be his wife. The action is not merely a purchase but a formal, binding agreement that establishes the marital covenant and the woman's status. There are no other biblical passages where this verb carries a different meaning.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only in Exodus 22:16 (Exodus 22:17 in some English versions), within the legal corpus known as the Book of the Covenant. Its usage is strictly confined to the context of Israelite family and property law, detailing the consequences for a specific social transgression. The pattern is singular and legalistic, providing a concrete procedure (payment of the bride-price) to rectify a wrong and formalize a marriage.

Etymology

מָהַר (mâhar) is a primitive root. It is likely related to or identical with the root מָהַר (H4116), which means 'to be quick, hasten,' suggesting an underlying concept of promptness or readiness in action. This connection implies that the act of paying the bride-price was to be carried out without delay, emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of fulfilling this social and legal obligation once incurred.

Semantic Range

This word provides insight into the biblical conception of marriage as a covenantal institution with social and economic dimensions, governed by divine law. Understanding מָהַר (mâhar) enriches the reading of Exodus 22:16 by highlighting that marriage involved serious commitments and protections, especially for women. It underscores God's concern for justice, social order, and the protection of the vulnerable within the community, framing marital relationships within a context of responsibility rather than mere passion. In its original cultural setting, מָהַר (mâhar) refers to the payment of the mohar, or bride-price. This was not a purchase of a person but a compensation paid to the woman's father, recognizing the economic loss to her family and formally transferring guardianship. It was a fundamental part of establishing a legally recognized marriage, differing significantly from modern Western concepts of marriage based primarily on mutual consent and romance. The law in Exodus 22:16 uses this established custom to provide justice and stability. לָקַח (laqach, H3947) — a more general verb meaning 'to take, acquire,' often used for taking a wife but without the specific connotation of paying a price. כָּרַת (karath, H3772) — means 'to cut' and is used for 'cutting' a covenant, including the marriage covenant, focusing on the solemn agreement rather than the financial transaction.

Word Details