What is…
“affinity” in the Bible

Hebrew: חָתַן —transliteration: chathan —meaning: a relationship by alliance (2 Chronicles 18:1) or by marriage (1 Kings 3:1); an in-law (such as son-in-law)

The word “affinity” is used 3 times in the King James Bible (1 Kings 3:1; 2 Chr. 18:1; Ezra 9:14).

It is not used in other translations (NKJV, NRSV, NASB, NIV) because this meaning is somewhat archaic. Instead, modern translations use the word “alliance” or “treaty” in the above verses.

“Chathan” is used 91 times in 51 verses of the Bible’s original Hebrew. Depending on the type of relationship being described. Depending on the context, it is translated as “bridegroom,” “son-in-law,” “marriage,” “father-in-law,” “mother-in-law,” or “husband.”

More information

• About marriage in the Bible
• List of Archaic Middle English words used in the King James Bible (with links to definitions)