In his work Against Apion, Josephus defends Jewish customs and beliefs against Hellenistic slanders. Here, he outlines the traditional Jewish view of marriage, starting with a clear definition: marriage is strictly between a man and a woman, intended for the purpose of having children. No surprises there, right? But it goes further. Josephus emphasizes that Jewish law "abhors the mixture of a male with a male," and the punishment for such an act is…well, pretty severe.
But what about finding a partner? According to Josephus, Jewish law dictates that when seeking a wife, a man should not focus on her dowry, or resort to violence or trickery. Instead, he should formally ask for her hand in marriage from the person who has the authority to give her away – typically a close male relative. Why? Because, as it says in the Scripture, "A woman is inferior to her husband in all things." Now, hold on a second. This particular phrase isn't actually found verbatim in the Hebrew Bible as we have it today. Josephus is likely interpreting the general sentiment of the time, where men held a dominant position in society. He clarifies that this isn't an excuse for abuse, but rather a call for the wife to acknowledge her husband's divinely-ordained authority. She is expected to be obedient, recognizing the structure that God, in their understanding, has put in place.
Josephus continues, emphasizing the importance of fidelity within marriage. A husband should only be with his wife, and adultery – having relations with another man's wife – carries the ultimate penalty: death. The same punishment applies to anyone who forces himself upon a virgin who is betrothed to someone else or who seduces another man's wife. Pretty clear boundaries, wouldn't you say?
The text goes on to stress the responsibility of raising children. Jewish law, according to Josephus, commands that all offspring be brought up. Abortion, or the destruction of a fetus, is considered an act of murder, a way of "destroying a living creature, and diminishing humankind." A woman who does this is considered a murderer, and cannot be considered ritually pure.
Finally, Josephus touches upon ritual purity, or taharah. After intimacy, both husband and wife are expected to cleanse themselves through ritual bathing. Why? Because, Josephus explains, the act of physical union brings about a state of defilement, affecting both the body and the soul. He poetically describes the soul's connection to the body as a source of misery, from which it can only be freed by death. This purification, therefore, is essential to restore a state of spiritual cleanliness.
So, what can we take away from all this? Josephus's account provides a glimpse into the values and beliefs of ancient Jewish society regarding marriage, family, and sexuality. It highlights the importance of procreation, fidelity, and the sanctity of life. While some of the views expressed, particularly regarding gender roles, may seem outdated or even problematic by today's standards, they offer a valuable window into the past and prompt us to reflect on how our own values have evolved. It makes you wonder, doesn't it, how future generations will view our current beliefs about these very same topics?