The article explores the theme of fertility and child-rearing in biblical texts, contrasting God's directive in Genesis to be fruitful with New Testament views, where figures like Paul encourage celibacy. Historical context shows that childlessness was endorsed by various ancient rulers. However, in contemporary society, choices around marriage and parenting have shifted from societal pressures to personal preference, highlighting a significant change in attitudes toward reproduction and family structures.
"Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it." God issues that order in the first chapter of Genesis. On the fifth day, having created the heavens and the earth, trees and plants, the sun and the moon and the stars, he creates sea monsters and winged birds, and blesses them with the words: "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let the birds multiply on the earth."
Egyptian and Babylonian, Assyrian and Persian kings promoted the childless; so did kings of Israel and Judah. These days celibacy and childlessness are less likely to be forced, and more matters of choice.
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