Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin Marriage, as depicted in the Bible, is a sacred covenant instituted by God. It is the union between a man and a woman, designed for companionship, procreation, and mutual support. The concept of marriage is first introduced in Genesis, where God creates Eve as a companion for Adam, establishing the foundational principle of marital union: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). Purpose and Significance Marriage serves multiple purposes according to biblical teachings. It is intended for companionship, as seen in Genesis 2:18, where God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." Additionally, marriage is the context for procreation, as God commands Adam and Eve to "Be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). The marital relationship is also a reflection of the covenantal relationship between Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:25-32. Roles and Responsibilities The Bible outlines specific roles and responsibilities for husbands and wives within marriage. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25). They are to lead their families with integrity and honor, providing for and protecting them. Wives are instructed to respect and submit to their husbands as unto the Lord (Ephesians 5:22-24), supporting them and nurturing the family. Marriage Ceremonies and Customs While the Bible does not prescribe a specific ceremony for marriage, various customs are observed throughout biblical narratives. For instance, the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine, highlights the celebratory nature of marriage (John 2:1-11). Marriages often involved betrothal periods, dowries, and feasts, as seen in the account of Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 24). Challenges and Admonitions The Bible acknowledges challenges within marriage, such as conflicts and unfaithfulness. It provides guidance for resolving disputes and maintaining fidelity. Jesus addresses the issue of divorce, emphasizing the sanctity and permanence of marriage: "Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" (Matthew 19:6). The Apostle Paul advises couples to fulfill their marital duties to one another and to avoid depriving each other, except by mutual consent for a time of prayer (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). Marriage as a Metaphor Marriage is frequently used as a metaphor for the relationship between God and His people. The Old Testament prophets, such as Hosea, depict Israel as an unfaithful spouse, while God remains a faithful husband. In the New Testament, the Church is described as the Bride of Christ, awaiting the consummation of the marriage at the return of Jesus (Revelation 19:7-9). Conclusion The biblical view of marriage is one of a lifelong, monogamous union that reflects God's covenantal love. It is a relationship marked by love, respect, and mutual submission, serving as a foundational institution for family and society. Strong's Hebrew 2859. chathan -- make oneself a daughter's husband... join in affinity, father-in-law, make marriages, mother-in-law, son-in-law. A primitive root; to give (a daughter) away in marriage ... /hebrew/2859.htm - 6k Library The Marriages of Jacob are a Figure of the Church. Excursus on Second Marriages, Called Digamy. For Where There are Weddings, Marriages, Births, Nurses, Arts... (Of Marriages among Blood-Relations, and of those who are Born of ... Of Second Marriages (Two Articles) If, Therefore, Ye Despise Marriages of Sons of Men... Marriages and Birthday Feasts are not to be Celebrated in Lent. .. ... Let Marriages Possess their Own Good, not that they Beget Sons... Wherefore they who Say that the Marriages of Such are not ... Having Shown that the Pretexts Usually Alleged for Second ... Thesaurus Marriages (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Marriages (4 Occurrences). Genesis 34:9 Make marriages with us. Give your daughters to us, and take our daughters for yourselves. ... /m/marriages.htm - 7k Giants (18 Occurrences) Intermarry (5 Occurrences) Woman (4043 Occurrences) Marriage-feasts (6 Occurrences) Zimri (16 Occurrences) Offering (850 Occurrences) Gentiles (150 Occurrences) Furthermore (41 Occurrences) Ramoth (30 Occurrences) Resources Does the Bible advocate arranged marriages? | GotQuestions.orgDid women in the Bible have a choice about whom they married? | GotQuestions.org Is the divorce rate among Christians truly the same as among non-Christians? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Marriages (4 Occurrences)Genesis 34:9 Deuteronomy 7:3 Joshua 23:12 Ezra 9:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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