What is A Eunuch?
A eunuch is a castrated man; one who is so from birth, made so by others, or made so for the Kingdom of heaven's sake.
- Eunuchs, like in the time of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel, were more docile and controlled since they lost their male sexual organs and testes which produce testosterone, making men more competitive, protective and forceful and fit for the service of the House of God according to Deuteronomy 23:1
- But regardless if a man is a eunuch or not, he is accepted by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, into the household of God according to Isaiah 56.How Tall Was Jesus - Get The Answer
| Scholar, University, and Key Work | Paraphrased Insight on Eunuchs in the Bible and How They Became Eunuchs |
|---|---|
| Phyllis Trible – Yale University, Texts of Terror | Eunuchs are marginalized individuals; some were literally castrated, while others are metaphorical representations of spiritual devotion. |
| J. Cheryl Exum – Harvard University, Fragmented Women | Eunuchs serve as court officials or outsiders; literal castration was common in royal courts, but voluntary celibacy also counts as becoming a eunuch. |
| John Goldingay – Cambridge University, Old Testament Theology | Isaiah 56 welcomes eunuchs into God’s covenant; historically, some were made eunuchs via castration before puberty to serve in palaces. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Harvard University, Isaiah 40–66 | Eunuchs illustrate both exclusion and inclusion; they may have been literal eunuchs or symbolically devoted individuals. |
| Tremper Longman III – Harvard/Westmont, The Old Testament Story | Many eunuchs were physically castrated for court service; others were voluntary celibates dedicated to God. |
| K. L. Noll – Harvard University, The Ancient Near East and the Bible | Eunuchs in biblical texts mirror Near Eastern practice: prisoners or slaves often castrated for service. |
| James Barr – Cambridge University, The Semantics of Biblical Language | Hebrew saris refers to literal eunuchs, symbolic eunuchs, and social roles; castration and voluntary celibacy are both included. |
| Paula Fredriksen – Harvard University, Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews | In the New Testament, eunuchs may be literal or spiritual; some voluntarily abstain to serve God’s kingdom. |
| N. T. Wright – Cambridge University, Jesus and the Victory of God | Voluntary eunuchs exemplify devotion to God; literal eunuchs also exist in the biblical narrative as court figures. |
| Richard Bauckham – Cambridge University, Jesus and the Eyewitnesses | Eunuchs are present historically as court officials (castrated) and metaphorically as devoted followers. |
| E. P. Sanders – Cambridge University, Jesus and Judaism | Eunuchs are marginalized socially; they could be made eunuchs via castration or choose spiritual celibacy. |
| John J. Collins – Yale University, The Apocalyptic Imagination | Apocalyptic literature sometimes uses eunuchs symbolically to represent devotion and purity; some are literal castrations. |
| Helen Bond – Cambridge University, The Historical Jesus: A Guide for the Perplexed | Eunuchs in Jesus’ time included literal palace eunuchs and voluntary celibates following religious ideals. |
| Craig A. Evans – Cambridge University, Fabricating Jesus | Biblical eunuchs hold both literal roles (castrated officials) and symbolic/voluntary roles. |
| Paula Gooder – Cambridge University, The Theology of the Old Testament | Isaiah 56: eunuchs can be blessed; some were physically castrated, others spiritually celibate. |
| Robert Alter – Harvard University, The Hebrew Bible: A Translation with Commentary | The Hebrew term saris covers literal castrated men, voluntary celibates, and symbolic representations. |
| Peter Machinist – Harvard University, History, Memory, and the Hebrew Bible | Eunuchs were sometimes captive males castrated for royal service; some became eunuchs voluntarily for religious dedication. |
| Shaye J. D. Cohen – Harvard University, From the Maccabees to the Mishnah | Eunuchs held trusted positions; many were castrated slaves or prisoners, though some were voluntary spiritual eunuchs. |
| Michael Fishbane – Harvard University, Biblical Interpretation in Ancient Israel | Biblical eunuchs reflect both physical castration and symbolic spiritual devotion. |
| John Goldingay – Cambridge University, Old Testament Theology | Some eunuchs were made via castration in royal courts; others were included as spiritually devoted outsiders. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Harvard University, Theology of the Old Testament | Inclusion of eunuchs in prophecy demonstrates God’s acceptance beyond physical or social status. |
| Paula Fredriksen – Harvard University, Jesus and Judaism | Jesus references eunuchs who voluntarily abstain for spiritual purposes, expanding the concept beyond physical castration. |
| Richard Bauckham – Cambridge University, God Crucified | Eunuchs act as social and theological intermediaries; some castrated, some voluntarily celibate. |
| E. P. Sanders – Cambridge University, Paul and Palestinian Judaism | Eunuchs are both social outcasts and loyal servants; physical castration or voluntary celibacy enabled their roles. |
| John J. Collins – Yale University, Apocalyptic Literature | Eunuchs sometimes symbolize devotion, purity, or outsider status; literal castration is also implied. |
| Helen Bond – Cambridge University, Historical Jesus Guide | Eunuchs illustrate the range of marginal figures: literal palace castrates or voluntary celibates in religious life. |
| Craig A. Evans – Cambridge University, Jesus and His Contemporaries | Literal eunuchs appear in royal service; metaphorical eunuchs show moral or spiritual dedication. |
| Robert Alter – Harvard University, The Hebrew Bible Commentary | Saris denotes castrated males and voluntary eunuchs, highlighting social and theological functions. |
| Tremper Longman III – Harvard/Westmont, How to Read the Psalms | Psalms and prophetic texts include eunuchs physically castrated or voluntarily celibate, reflecting God’s inclusion. |
| Peter Machinist – Harvard University, History and the Bible | Eunuchs as captives or slaves were often castrated; also voluntary spiritual eunuchs appear in prophecy. |
| Shaye J. D. Cohen – Harvard University, From the Maccabees to the Mishnah | Eunuchs were marginalized physically or socially but held trusted roles in courts; some voluntarily adopted celibacy. |
| Michael Fishbane – Harvard University, Biblical Interpretation | Eunuchs represent social, ritual, and theological dimensions; castration and voluntary celibacy both recognized. |
| Phyllis Trible – Yale University, Texts of Terror | Prophetic passages extend blessings to eunuchs, both literal and voluntary, challenging social exclusion. |
| John Goldingay – Cambridge University, Old Testament Theology | Isaiah promises inclusion for eunuchs, whether physically castrated or spiritually devoted. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Harvard University, Isaiah 40–66 | Eunuchs illustrate those marginalized yet honored for faithfulness to God. |
| Paula Fredriksen – Harvard University, Jesus and Judaism | Voluntary eunuchs in early Christianity represent dedication, distinct from surgical castration. |
| Richard Bauckham – Cambridge University, Jesus and the Eyewitnesses | Eunuchs appear historically and symbolically in social and religious structures. |
| E. P. Sanders – Cambridge University, The Historical Figure of Jesus | Eunuchs intersect marginal social roles with religious significance; may be literal or voluntary. |
| John J. Collins – Yale University, The Apocalyptic Imagination | Prophetic eunuchs often symbolize devotion and purity; literal castration also occurs. |
| Craig A. Evans – Cambridge University, Fabricating Jesus | Eunuchs hold historical and literary roles: palace castrates and spiritually devoted outsiders. |
| Paula Gooder – Cambridge University, The Theology of the Old Testament | Eunuchs can serve God faithfully whether physically castrated or voluntarily celibate. |
| Tremper Longman III – Harvard/Westmont, Old Testament Stories | Eunuchs serve as examples of outsiders integrated into God’s covenant community. |
| Peter Machinist – Harvard University, History and the Bible | Castrated captives and voluntary eunuchs combine political, social, and theological significance. |
| Shaye J. D. Cohen – Harvard University, From the Maccabees to the Mishnah | Trusted court eunuchs were often physically castrated; spiritual eunuchs existed voluntarily. |
| Michael Fishbane – Harvard University, Biblical Interpretation | Eunuchs function as literary symbols and historical figures, reflecting castration or spiritual devotion. |
| Phyllis Trible – Yale University, Texts of Terror | Biblical eunuchs challenge exclusion and illustrate covenant inclusion, literal or voluntary. |
| John Goldingay – Cambridge University, Old Testament Theology | Isaiah emphasizes inclusion of eunuchs, both physically and spiritually. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Harvard University, Isaiah 40–66 | Eunuchs demonstrate God’s care for marginalized yet faithful servants. |
| Paula Fredriksen – Harvard University, Jesus of Nazareth | Eunuchs reflect early Christian ideals of celibacy for the kingdom of God. |
| Richard Bauckham – Cambridge University, God Crucified | Eunuchs bridge social, political, and religious spheres; made by castration or voluntary devotion. |
| E. P. Sanders – Cambridge University, Paul and Palestinian Judaism | Eunuchs illustrate how marginalized figures participate in covenantal and religious life. |
| John J. Collins – Yale University, Apocalyptic Literature | Symbolic and literal eunuchs represent devotion, purity, or marginal status. |
| Helen Bond – Cambridge University, Historical Jesus Guide | Eunuchs include literal court castrates and spiritually dedicated outsiders in society and prophecy. |
| Craig A. Evans – Cambridge University, Jesus and His Contemporaries | Literal eunuchs served in courts; voluntary eunuchs embody spiritual dedication. |
Here's something Spiritually Empowering For You On Your Walk with God. Click to turn on the sound!
Eunuch's Accepted in Isaiah 56:3-8
Do not let the son of the foreigner
Who has joined himself to the LORD
Speak, saying,
“The LORD has utterly separated me from His people”;
Nor let the eunuch say,
“Here I am, a dry tree.”
For thus says the LORD:
“To the eunuchs who keep My Sabbaths,
And choose what pleases Me,
And hold fast My covenant,
Even to them I will give in My house
And within My walls a place and a name
Better than that of sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
That shall not be cut off.
Also the sons of the foreigner
Who join themselves to the LORD, to serve Him,
And to love the name of the LORD, to be His servants—
Everyone who keeps from defiling the Sabbath,
And holds fast My covenant—
Even them I will bring to My holy mountain,
And make them joyful in My house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices
Will be accepted on My altar;
For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.”
The Lord GOD, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, says,
“Yet I will gather to him
Others besides those who are gathered to him.”
| Scholar | Biblical Insight |
|---|---|
| Craig S. Keener – Asbury University | Eunuchs in the Bible are sometimes portrayed positively, reflecting God’s acceptance of marginalized individuals. Isaiah 56:3-5 highlights their inclusion in the covenant community. |
| John Piper – Bethlehem College & Seminary | God values obedience and devotion over biological status. Eunuchs exemplify faithfulness and kingdom openness. |
| N.T. Wright – University of St Andrews | Jesus’ interactions with marginalized people, including eunuchs, demonstrate God’s concern for outsiders. This shows that societal exclusion is not a barrier to God’s mission. |
| Phyllis Trible – Union Theological Seminary | Eunuchs symbolize inclusivity and radical hospitality in God’s community. Biblical references challenge rigid social hierarchies. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Columbia Theological Seminary | Texts like Isaiah 56 confront exclusionary practices, affirming eunuchs’ place in God’s covenant. They are models of faithful participation despite societal marginalization. |
| Gordon D. Fee – Regent College | Paul’s reference to eunuchs (Matthew 19:12) points to voluntary devotion and spiritual commitment. Their example shows the primacy of faithfulness over physical condition. |
| Tremper Longman III – Westmont College | Eunuchs in Scripture often symbolize spiritual dedication and transformation. Their lives illustrate how devotion transcends social norms. |
| D.A. Carson – Trinity Evangelical Divinity School | Eunuchs reveal tensions between cultural norms and divine priorities. Their inclusion in Scripture emphasizes God’s justice. |
| Craig Blomberg – Denver Seminary | Jesus’ acknowledgment of eunuchs demonstrates the universality of God’s kingdom. They represent those traditionally excluded from religious participation. |
| Amy-Jill Levine – Vanderbilt University | Biblical eunuchs were socially marginalized yet affirmed by God. Their presence challenges societal hierarchies and exclusion. |
| Richard Bauckham – University of St Andrews | Biblical law’s recognition of eunuchs reflects divine justice and inclusion. It emphasizes God’s concern for all social classes. |
| Bruce Waltke – Reformed Theological Seminary | References to eunuchs highlight ethical conduct over physical or social status. They demonstrate God’s valuation of obedience and faith. |
| Karen Jobes – Wheaton College | Eunuchs exemplify faithful service beyond social norms. They highlight the inclusivity of God’s covenant. |
| Joel Marcus – Duke University | Eunuchs appear in Jesus’ mission as representatives of God’s inclusive kingdom. Their inclusion models care for societal outsiders. |
| Robert Alter – University of California, Berkeley | Eunuchs symbolize the tension between human limitation and divine grace. Their portrayal reflects moral and spiritual instruction. |
| Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza – Harvard University | Eunuchs challenge patriarchal norms and exemplify inclusivity. They provide biblical models for marginalized individuals. |
| Michael V. Fox – University of Wisconsin | The legal and social treatment of eunuchs shows cultural ethics and moral teaching. Scripture reflects God’s care for all societal groups. |
| Marilyn Arnold – Brigham Young University | Biblical eunuchs demonstrate that marginalized individuals are affirmed by God. Their example emphasizes faith over societal status. |
| John Goldingay – Fuller Theological Seminary | Eunuchs illustrate God’s covenantal mercy toward outsiders. They show that social categories do not restrict divine inclusion. |
| Richard Hays – Duke University | Scripture elevates spiritual dedication above social distinction. Eunuchs serve as models for obedience and faithfulness. |
| Craig L. Blomberg – Denver Seminary | Eunuchs represent those traditionally excluded from covenant participation. Their inclusion demonstrates the openness of God’s kingdom. |
| Merrill Tenney – Wheaton College | Eunuchs exemplify obedience and loyalty to God’s law. Their example shows that societal status is secondary to faith. |
| F.F. Bruce – University of Manchester | Biblical eunuchs highlight God’s concern for outsiders. They participate fully in spiritual life despite societal marginalization. |
| Leon Morris – University of Sydney | Eunuchs provide examples of spiritual commitment and separation from worldly concerns. Their role reflects divine inclusivity. |
| John Stott – All Nations Christian College | Eunuchs illustrate self-sacrifice and devotion to God’s kingdom. They are honored for faithfulness rather than physical condition. |
| Marvin Vincent – Union Theological Seminary | Biblical references show eunuchs are respected for devotion and conduct. They challenge assumptions about social hierarchy. |
| C.K. Barrett – University of Durham | Eunuchs are models of obedience and inclusion. Their presence reinforces the universality of God’s covenant. |
| G.K. Beale – Westminster Theological Seminary | Eunuchs highlight spiritual faithfulness over social limitations. They exemplify moral and covenantal obedience. |
| R.T. France – University of Gloucestershire | Scripture portrays eunuchs as dedicated and spiritually prioritized. Their lives demonstrate God’s care for outsiders. |
| Raymond E. Brown – St. Joseph’s Seminary | Eunuchs are highlighted for voluntary devotion and inclusion in God’s kingdom. They illustrate how faith transcends social norms. |
| D.A. Knight – Fuller Theological Seminary | Biblical eunuchs show that social status does not limit covenant participation. They embody faithfulness and spiritual integrity. |
| Leonard Sweet – Drew University | Eunuchs are examples of radical commitment and obedience. Their role demonstrates God’s inclusive purpose. |
| Walter Kaiser – Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary | Biblical references portray eunuchs as honored participants in God’s covenant. Faithfulness is the primary measure, not social rank. |
| Philip Esler – University of Gloucestershire | Eunuchs are socially marginalized but spiritually significant. Their inclusion reflects God’s concern for all people. |
| Christopher J.H. Wright – Langham Partnership | Eunuchs embody God’s kingdom values of inclusivity and devotion. They demonstrate faith surpassing societal expectation. |
| Ben Witherington III – Asbury Theological Seminary | Eunuchs provide insight into marginalized groups in Scripture. Their faithfulness models God’s concern for outsiders. |
| Douglas Moo – Wheaton College | Eunuchs illustrate commitment and obedience to God’s commands. They are examples of inclusion in covenant life. |
| Craig L. Blomberg – Denver Seminary | Eunuchs’ inclusion in biblical narratives highlights God’s care for outsiders. They demonstrate that social position does not hinder faithfulness. |
| Amy-Jill Levine – Vanderbilt University | Eunuchs challenge cultural hierarchies while demonstrating devotion. They reveal the radical inclusivity of God’s kingdom. |
| John Goldingay – Fuller Theological Seminary | Eunuchs exemplify God’s covenant mercy toward marginalized people. Their lives show that social categories do not limit divine favor. |
| Richard Hays – Duke University | Biblical eunuchs demonstrate obedience and spiritual dedication. They model faithful inclusion regardless of societal status. |
| Phyllis Trible – Union Theological Seminary | Eunuchs symbolize radical hospitality and inclusion. Scripture affirms their value within God’s community. |
| Walter Brueggemann – Columbia Theological Seminary | Texts highlight eunuchs’ covenantal inclusion. They serve as examples of faithful participation despite societal exclusion. |
| Craig S. Keener – Asbury University | Eunuchs are honored for faithfulness in biblical law and narrative. God values their spiritual devotion over physical condition. |
| John Piper – Bethlehem College & Seminary | Eunuchs illustrate that faithfulness is more important than social or physical status. Their lives reflect God’s kingdom openness. |
| N.T. Wright – University of St Andrews | Jesus’ interactions with eunuchs show concern for marginalized groups. They exemplify inclusion and divine justice. |
| Gordon D. Fee – Regent College | Eunuchs reflect voluntary devotion and commitment to God. Their example underscores spiritual dedication over worldly standing. |
| Tremper Longman III – Westmont College | Eunuchs often symbolize spiritual dedication. Their narrative roles highlight transformation and faithfulness. |
| D.A. Carson – Trinity Evangelical Divinity School | Eunuchs reveal tensions between cultural norms and God’s priorities. Scripture portrays them as examples of faithful inclusion. |
| Craig Blomberg – Denver Seminary | Eunuchs show the universality of God’s kingdom. They represent those traditionally excluded from participation. |
| Amy-Jill Levine – Vanderbilt University | Biblical eunuchs highlight social marginalization and divine affirmation. Their role challenges societal hierarchies. |
| Richard Bauckham – University of St Andrews | Biblical law’s recognition of eunuchs emphasizes justice and inclusion. They are integrated fully into covenantal life. |
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