Family relationships, including with cousins, are important in the Bible. Scripture shows how family can be a blessing and a source of support. Today, we’ll explore how the Bible highlights the importance of family ties and loving our relatives.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Courting
What Does The Bible Say About Cousin
Ruth 2:1
“Now Naomi had a relative on her husband’s side, a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek, whose name was Boaz.”
This verse introduces Boaz as a relative of Naomi. Cousins are often considered close family members, and their relationship can bring support and assistance.
Throughout the book of Ruth, Boaz plays a significant role in redeeming Naomi’s family line, highlighting the importance of family ties and the potential for cousins to fulfill God’s purposes.
Genesis 13:8
“So Abram said to Lot, ‘Let’s not have any quarreling between you and me, or between your herders and mine, for we are close relatives.’”
In this verse, Abram acknowledges his relationship with Lot and seeks to preserve peace in their interaction. Cousins have the opportunity to resolve conflicts and maintain unity among family members.
Choosing harmony over strife enables cousins to exhibit God’s love and build strong foundations within the broader family unit.
Luke 1:36
“Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month.”
Mary receives the news about her relative, Elizabeth, who is miraculously expecting a child. Cousins can bring unexpected blessings and joy into our lives, as God’s plans unfold in remarkable ways.
This verse demonstrates that God’s faithfulness extends to our family relationships, and He can bring forth new life and hope through the bonds we share with our cousins.
Colossians 4:10
“My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)”
In this verse, Mark is mentioned as the cousin of Barnabas. Cousins can be valuable companions and partners in ministry.
Although the specific significance of Mark as Barnabas’ cousin is not explicitly stated, the passage emphasizes the importance of welcoming and supporting our cousins as fellow believers in Christ.
2 Kings 11:2
“But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the royal princes, who were about to be murdered. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah; so he was not killed.”
Jehosheba, a cousin of the king, risks her life to protect her cousin Joash from being killed. Cousins have the potential to stand up for one another and offer support, especially in times of danger or difficulty.
This verse showcases Jehosheba’s courage and loyalty to her cousin, highlighting the importance of family bonds in times of crisis.
Acts 1:12-13
“Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.”
In this passage, James and Judas are mentioned as brothers. Cousins can build strong bonds of friendship and fellowship, similar to siblings.
The close relationship between James and Judas, who were both cousins of Jesus, reflects the importance of familial ties in the early Christian community.
Genesis 12:5
“He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated, and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan.”
Abraham takes his nephew Lot with him on their journey. Cousins can experience life-changing adventures together, supporting one another and sharing in the blessings that God has to offer.
This verse underscores the significance and impact that cousins can have on our lives as we navigate the journey of faith.
2 Chronicles 21:2
“Jehoram’s brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat, were Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azaryahu, Michael, and Shephatiah. All these were sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.”
Here, the brothers of King Jehoram are mentioned, emphasizing the bond between cousins and their shared lineage.
Just as these brothers shared familial ties, cousins can unite under a common heritage and work together to fulfill God’s purposes.
1 Samuel 20:42
“Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, ‘The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’’ Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.”
Jonathan and David, who were cousins, declared their deep and lasting friendship, recognizing the significance of their familial connection.
This verse illustrates the profound impact that cousins can have on one another’s lives, providing support, loyalty, and companionship.
Matthew 10:2-4
“These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”
This passage lists the twelve apostles, including James and Thaddaeus, who could have been cousins of Jesus. Cousins can be part of a close-knit community, working together to spread the Gospel and bring others to Christ.
The presence of cousins among Jesus’ disciples highlights the significance of family ties and the shared mission they can undertake.
2 Kings 9:27
“When Ahaziah king of Judah saw what had happened, he fled up the road to Beth Haggan. Jehu chased him, shouting, ‘Kill him too!’ They wounded him in his chariot on the way up to Gur near Ibleam, but he escaped to Megiddo and died there.”
Ahaziah, the king of Judah, attempts to escape from Jehu. Cousins can find themselves facing similar trials and challenges, negotiating their circumstances with strength and resilience.
This verse serves as a reminder that cousins may encounter adversity, but God’s providence can guide them to safety and bring justice in unexpected ways.
John 18:15
“Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard.”
This verse refers to a disciple who accompanied Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard. Some biblical scholars suggest that this “other disciple” could have been John, Jesus’ cousin.
If this interpretation is accurate, it showcases the support provided by cousins in walking alongside one another through difficult and challenging situations.
Leviticus 18:6
“No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the LORD.”
Although cousins share a familial bond, this verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries within these relationships.
God’s commandments instruct us to honor our relatives while ensuring that our actions align with His principles of purity and respect.
Nehemiah 12:7
“Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, and Jedaiah. These were the leaders of the priests and their associates in the days of Jeshua.”
Nehemiah mentions the leaders of the priests, including Sallu, who was likely a cousin of Jeshua. Cousins can play key roles in leading and guiding others in various walks of life.
Just as Sallu held a position of influence, cousins can impact their family and community through their leadership and example.
Acts 10:23
“Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests. The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the believers from Joppa went along.”
Peter invites men into his house and embarks on a journey with them. Cousins can be open-hearted and welcoming, extending hospitality and partnership.
This verse demonstrates Peter’s willingness to embrace others, showcasing the inclusive and welcoming nature of cousins.
Ezekiel 11:15
“Son of man, your people are talking together about you by the walls and at the doors of the houses, saying to each other, ‘Come and hear the message that has come from the LORD.’”
Ezekiel’s people discuss his prophecies and eagerly listen to the message from the Lord. Cousins can support and encourage one another in their spiritual journeys.
Just as Ezekiel’s cousins engage with his prophetic ministry, cousins can be instrumental in fostering a spiritual environment and encouraging one another to draw closer to God.
Luke 6:42
“How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
Jesus uses the analogy of removing a speck from one’s brother’s eye to teach about addressing sin. Cousins should approach their relationships with humility, focusing on self-reflection and personal growth.
This verse encourages cousins to prioritize their own spiritual development before seeking to guide or correct others, promoting harmony within family connections.
2 Chronicles 22:11
“But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the royal princes who were about to be murdered and put him and his nurse in a bedroom. Because Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram and wife of the priest Jehoiada, was Ahaziah’s sister, she hid the child from Athaliah so she could not kill him.”
Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah, rescues her nephew from imminent danger and safeguards his life. Cousins can provide protection and care, going to great lengths to ensure one another’s well-being.
This verse exemplifies Jehosheba’s love for her cousin and highlights the potential cousins have to shield one another from harm.
Mark 6:3
“Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?’ And they took offense at him.”
In this verse, James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon are mentioned as Jesus’ brothers, suggesting a cousin relationship. Cousins can be intimately connected to one another’s lives, participating in both joys and challenges.
The presence of Jesus’ cousins alongside their brothers and sisters highlights the depth of familial connections and the unique experiences cousins share.
Genesis 14:14
“When Abram heard that his relative had been taken captive, he called out the 318 trained men born in his household and went in pursuit as far as Dan.”
Abram embarks on a rescue mission to save his relative who had been captured. Cousins can display courage and a commitment to protecting and assisting one another.
This verse demonstrates the lengths cousins may go to in order to ensure the well-being and safety of their family members.
Acts 23:16
“But some of the teachers of the law who were Pharisees stood up and argued vigorously. ‘We find nothing wrong with this man,’ they said. ‘What if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?’”
Some Pharisees recognize that Paul might be speaking the truth after a vigorous argument. Cousins can challenge and inspire one another to consider alternate perspectives and seek the truth.
This verse emphasizes the value of cousins engaging in healthy debate and fruitful discussions that lead to a deeper understanding of God’s Word.
1 Chronicles 23:19
“The descendants of Hebron: Jeriah the first, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the third, and Jekameam the fourth.”
This verse references the lineage of Hebron and lists the descendants, including Jeriah, Amariah, Jahaziel, and Jekameam. Cousins can be interconnected through their shared ancestry, promoting a sense of belonging and heritage.
Understanding one’s family history and embracing the connections to cousins can foster a stronger sense of identity and unity within the extended family unit.
Matthew 13:55-56
“Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Aren’t all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?”
As previously mentioned, this verse acknowledges the brothers and sisters of Jesus. Cousins can grow up and navigate life together, surrounded by shared memories and experiences.
The inclusion of Jesus’ cousins in the scriptural narrative highlights the depth of relationship that can exist between cousins, characterized by familiarity and a shared history.