In biblical times, a woman was legally regarded simply as property (valuable property that needed to be looked after), and the betrothal was effected simply by purchasing her from her father (or guardian). The girl’s consent is not explicitly required by any biblical law; neither however, is there explicit permission to ignore it. The bible, doubtless on the basis of ordinary human affection, on one occasion portrays a parent as giving their daughter some choice in the matter; but the arrangements about the marriage, and especially about the purchase price, were made with her father (or guardian).