Definition: The word "aethalia" appears in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus 21:9 where it refers to a woman who had been given authority over her son's inheritance but was still subject to the law of divorce (Leviticus 25). The phrase "had been" suggests a legal contract or treaty, which is why the term "aethalia" has religious connotations. In this context, it indicates that the woman was not free from her husband in all respects, and she needed guidance to make decisions concerning their son's inheritance. In the context of Leviticus 21:9 specifically, it implies that a man had already married another woman after violating God's laws against divorce (Lev. 25:34). This phrase is used figuratively or literally to represent something being done without proper authority or permission due to a lack of understanding or responsibility. The word "aethalia" is often translated as a female who has been divorced from her husband and cannot have a son according to the law of inheritance. The specific context and context in which it appears in Leviticus 21:9 provide a detailed and nuanced understanding, suggesting that the woman had previously broken with her husband's agreement regarding their child's inheritance rights, but the divorce decree has not been followed due to lack of knowledge or understanding. The phrase "had" implies that she was being held captive by the husband for her own personal reasons without any legal or religious obligations. In other words, it refers to a situation where the woman is still subject to marital relations even though she has broken with her husband's agreement and had a child taken from her in violation of God's law.

aethalia