Levirate Marriage

Definition

Levirate marriage is a type of marriage practice where a man marries his deceased brother's widow. This custom is found in some traditional societies and is often rooted in cultural and religious traditions that aim to provide care and support for the widow and any children from the previous marriage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Levirate marriage is commonly associated with patrilineal societies where the inheritance and lineage are passed down through the male line.
2. The practice of levirate marriage is often intended to ensure the continued care and support of the widow and any children from the previous marriage.
3. Levirate marriage may also be seen as a way to keep property and resources within the deceased husband's family.
4. The practice of levirate marriage is found in various cultural and religious traditions, including ancient Israelite and some African societies.
5. Levirate marriage has been the subject of debate and controversy, with some arguing that it can be exploitative or disempowering for the widow.

Review Questions

• Explain the cultural and social functions of levirate marriage within patrilineal societies.
  • In patrilineal societies, levirate marriage serves several important cultural and social functions. Firstly, it ensures the continued care and support of the widow and any children from the previous marriage, as the deceased husband's brother is expected to take responsibility for the family. Secondly, it helps to keep property and resources within the deceased husband's family, maintaining the patrilineal lineage and inheritance. Additionally, levirate marriage can be seen as a way to provide stability and security for the widow, as she is absorbed into her late husband's family and household.
• Analyze the potential ethical and legal implications of levirate marriage, particularly in regards to the autonomy and rights of the widow.
  • While levirate marriage is rooted in traditional cultural and religious practices, it has been the subject of significant debate and controversy. Critics argue that the practice can be exploitative and disempowering for the widow, as she may have little choice in the matter and be expected to conform to the wishes of her late husband's family. There are also potential legal and ethical issues, as levirate marriage may be seen as a form of forced marriage or a violation of the widow's personal autonomy. Additionally, the practice may reinforce patriarchal power structures and gender inequalities within the society. Careful consideration of the widow's rights and wellbeing is essential when examining the implications of levirate marriage.
• Evaluate the role of levirate marriage in the broader context of marriage and family structures across cultures, and how it may be influenced by or contribute to cultural and societal norms.
  • Levirate marriage is a complex practice that must be understood within the broader cultural and societal context of marriage and family structures. As a form of marriage that is often rooted in patrilineal descent and inheritance systems, levirate marriage can be seen as both a reflection and a reinforcement of traditional gender roles and power dynamics within a society. The practice may be influenced by and contribute to cultural norms around the importance of maintaining family lineages, the perceived obligations of male family members, and the perceived status and role of widows within the community. At the same time, the practice of levirate marriage can also shape and influence broader societal attitudes and beliefs about marriage, family, and the rights and responsibilities of individuals within these structures. Evaluating levirate marriage within this wider context is crucial for understanding its cultural significance, as well as its potential impacts on gender equality and individual autonomy.

Related terms

Sororate Marriage: A marriage practice where a man marries his deceased wife's sister, often to provide care and support for the family.

Widow Inheritance: The practice of a widow being absorbed into her deceased husband's family, often by marrying one of his male relatives.

Patrilineal Descent: A system of determining kinship and inheritance that traces descent through the father's line.