a -fin´i -ti ( חתן , ḥāthan "to join one-self"): This term is used three times in the Old Testament: (1) in 1 Kings 3:1 , where we read that "Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh King of Egypt", (2) in 2 Chronicles 18:1 , where it is stated that Jehoshaphat "joined affinity with Ahab," and (3). in Ezra 9:14 , where it is asked "Shall we ... join in affinity with the peoples that do these abominations?" The Hebrew word thus rendered in the above three passages refers in each case to marriage alliances rather than to family or political relationships. See MARRIAGE; FAMILY .
The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) was edited by James Orr, John Nuelsen, Edgar Mullins, Morris Evans, and Melvin Grove Kyle and was published complete in 1939. This web site includes the complete text.
WikipediaThe ISBE is a classic Bible reference compiled from nearly 10,000 entries written by over 200 different Bible scholars and teachers. In addition to the encyclopedia articles, all of the major words of the Bible are represented and defined.
The historical, cultural, and linguistic information in the ISBE can be of great value in Bible study and research.
But as with any writings of men, the careful student of the Bible must always compare them with Scripture. As you use this helpful study resource, remember that only God's word is pure.
Read More