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The concept of Handmaiden in Christianity

The term Handmaiden, as referenced by the Church of the East, encompasses multiple aspects. It includes the handmaidens Zilpah and Bilhah, who are mothers to some of Jacob's sons, as well as Haghar, the Egyptian servant given to Sara. These figures play significant roles in biblical narratives regarding childbirth. In Early Christianity, the Handmaiden signifies a special connection with the divine, indicating that the Lord of glory dwells with her, highlighting her chosen and grace-filled status.

Synonyms: Servant, Attendant, Helper, Aide, Maid, Retainer, Maidservant

In Finnish: Neito; In Spanish: Doncella; In Dutch: Dienstmaagd; In German: Dienerin; In Malay: Hamba perempuan; In Swedish: °ÕÂáä²Ô²¹°ù¾±²Ô²Ô²¹; In French: Servante

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Handmaiden'

Christianity Books

Significance in Church of the East (or the East Syriac Church):
Church of the East Books

From: The Book of the Cave of Treasures

(1) The handmaiden of Leah, Zilpah, and the handmaiden of Rachel, Bilhah, are mentioned as mothers of some of Jacob's sons.[1] (2) This refers to the role of Haghar, the Egyptian woman, given to Sara by Pharaoh.[2]

From: The Kebra Nagast

(1) The handmaiden is the one who takes the head of Tebreles out of the dish, and puts it back on his neck.[3] (2) A female servant who is involved in the events surrounding the births of the children, playing a crucial role in the plot and the unfolding of the story.[4]

The Church of the East emerged in the 5th century and separated from the Roman Empire's state church by adopting Nestorianism. It emphasizes the distinct human and divine natures of Jesus Christ. It is also called the Assyrian Church, Nestorian Church or the East Syriac Church.

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The Lord of glory dwells with the handmaiden, and the grace of God has chosen to dwell with her, as he knows.[5]

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) This is the Accusing Self, which is a concept referenced in the text provided. This is a concept.[6]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.