Introduction to Biblical Marriage

Marriage in the Bible is a foundational institution established by God, serving as a covenantal relationship between a man and a woman. It is depicted as a sacred union designed for companionship, procreation, and the reflection of God's relationship with His people. The Bible provides various insights into the practices, purposes, and principles of marriage, which have been interpreted and applied throughout history.

Marriage in the Old Testament

The Old Testament presents marriage as a divinely ordained institution. In Genesis 2:24 , it is written, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This verse underscores the concept of leaving one's family to form a new, independent family unit, emphasizing unity and intimacy.

Polygamy is observed in several Old Testament narratives, with figures like Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon having multiple wives. However, these accounts often highlight the complications and strife associated with such arrangements, suggesting a deviation from the ideal of monogamous marriage.

Marriage was also closely tied to family alliances and social contracts. For example, marriages were often arranged by families to strengthen social, economic, or political ties. The account of Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 24) illustrates the practice of arranged marriages, where Abraham's servant seeks a wife for Isaac from his own kin.

Marriage Laws and Customs

The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding marriage. Deuteronomy 24:1-4 addresses the issue of divorce, allowing a man to write a certificate of divorce if he finds something indecent about his wife. However, this was not intended to encourage divorce but to regulate it and protect the rights of women.

Levirate marriage, as described in Deuteronomy 25:5-10, was another practice where a man was required to marry his deceased brother's widow to produce offspring in the brother's name. This custom ensured the continuation of the family line and the protection of the widow.

Marriage in the New Testament

The New Testament reaffirms the sanctity and permanence of marriage. Jesus Christ emphasized the original intent of marriage, referring back to Genesis, and taught against divorce except in cases of sexual immorality (Matthew 19:4-9). He stated, "Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the roles and responsibilities within marriage. In Ephesians 5:22-33 , Paul compares the marital relationship to that of Christ and the Church, urging husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the Church and wives to respect their husbands. This passage highlights mutual love, respect, and submission as key elements of a Christian marriage.

Paul also addresses the issue of celibacy and marriage in 1 Corinthians 7, acknowledging that while marriage is good, singleness can be preferable for those who can accept it, as it allows for undivided devotion to the Lord.

Cultural and Historical Context

Understanding biblical marriage practices requires consideration of the cultural and historical context of the times. Marriages were often community events, with celebrations lasting several days, as seen in the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). The betrothal period was a formal engagement, legally binding and requiring a divorce to break.

Dowries and bride prices were common, serving as compensation to the bride's family and a form of financial security for the bride. The account of Jacob working for Laban to marry Rachel (Genesis 29) illustrates the concept of bride service as a form of bride price.

Conclusion

Biblical marriage practices reflect a complex interplay of divine principles, cultural norms, and historical contexts. While the Bible presents an ideal of monogamous, lifelong marriage, it also addresses the realities and challenges faced by individuals and communities throughout biblical history.