The expression "betrothed," "pledged to be married" ("engaged to be married" NRS, NASB; or "espoused," KJV) is found several times in the OT and NT. The concept of being 'pledged to be married' referenced in the Bible is far more serious than the modern practice of engagement. Once pledged, the woman is considered the man's wife even though no sexual interaction was yet involved (2 Sam 3:14). If the woman was then found to have consensual sex with another man, it would be counted as adultery and she would be put to death (Deut 22:24). Joseph's decision to take on the responsibility of not putting aside Mary, when she was found to be pregnant with Jesus, examplifies his sensitivity and courage in obeying the words of the angel given to him in the dream (Matt 1:20).
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