Marriage, according to the Bible, is a sacred union established by God, characterized by a covenant relationship between a man and a woman. Several key elements define marriage in biblical terms:
1. **Divine Institution**: Marriage is instituted by God. In Genesis 2:24 (NIV), it states, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” This verse highlights that marriage is part of God’s creation design.
2. **Covenant Relationship**: Marriage is portrayed as a covenant, which is a solemn agreement meant to be lifelong. Malachi 2:14 (NIV) emphasizes this by saying, “The Lord is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant.”
3. **One Flesh Union**: Marriage involves the deep intimacy of becoming “one flesh,” which suggests a profound physical, emotional, and spiritual connection. This concept is reiterated in Matthew 19:5-6 (NIV), where Jesus quotes Genesis: “…and the two will become one flesh.” He adds, “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
4. **Mutual Love and Respect**: The Bible calls for mutual love and respect within marriage. Ephesians 5:25 (NIV) instructs husbands, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Similarly, Ephesians 5:22 (NIV) advises wives to “submit to your own husbands as you do to the Lord,” promoting a relationship based on love and respect.
5. **Faithfulness**: Faithfulness is a crucial aspect of marriage. Hebrews 13:4 (NIV) states, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” This highlights the call for fidelity in the marital relationship.
6. **Purpose of Companionship**: Marriage serves the purpose of companionship and support. In Genesis 2:18 (NIV), God says, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This indicates that marriage provides companionship and partnership.
7. **Sanctity of Marriage**: The Bible emphasizes the sanctity of marriage. In 1 Corinthians 7:2 (NIV), it states, “But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband,” affirming that sexual relations should be confined to the marriage context.
These elements combine to form a comprehensive biblical view of marriage, portraying it not only as a social contract but as a divinely ordained covenant designed for the flourishing of individuals and families.