eunuch

Yoo´nuhk

A male who has been castrated. Eunuchs were in demand as guards of royal harems. Although excluded from the sacred assembly (Deut 23:1), eunuchs often receive a favorable report in biblical material (one rescued Jeremiah). Becoming a eunuch for religious reasons is mentioned in Matt 19:12, although the exact meaning of that verse is unclear. It may be metaphorical for remaining celibate to serve God better (1Cor 7:32-34).