The scriptural understanding of a female who has never experienced sexual intercourse is central to the term’s meaning. The Old Testament emphasizes physical integrity as a component of this concept, often relating to marriage and lineage purity. For example, legal and social implications arose when determining the marital status and subsequent rights of a woman claimed to possess this characteristic. A woman’s physical state held significant weight within the cultural and religious context.
The significance of this state extends beyond the purely physical. It carries connotations of purity, innocence, and being set apart. Historically, this designation held considerable importance in betrothal and marital agreements, affecting social standing and inheritance rights. In some religious contexts, it also symbolized dedication to God and a life free from defilement. Consequently, the concept was interwoven with social order and spiritual ideals, influencing societal norms and expectations.
