Bible Dictionary
Espouse
To espouse means to betroth or formally promise in marriage. Biblical betrothal created a serious obligation before the wedding and is also used figuratively for the relationship between God and his people.
Definition
To espouse is to betroth or formally promise in marriage. Espousal was a ceremony in which the parties entered a binding obligation with a view to marriage, often well before the wedding.
Biblical Usage
Betrothal is used figuratively to illustrate the relationship between God and His people. The term also describes Mary’s relationship to Joseph before their marriage.
Historical Background
In the East, espousals were frequently contracted years before the marriage was celebrated and carried serious legal and social obligation.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(2 Sam. 3:14), to betroth. The espousal was a ceremony of betrothing, a formal agreement between the parties then coming under obligation for the purpose of marriage. Espousals are in the East frequently contracted years before the marriage is celebrated. It is referred to as figuratively illustrating the relations between God and his people (Jer. 2:2; Matt. 1:18; 2 Cor. 11:2). (See BETROTH.)