Topical Encyclopedia Annulment, in a biblical context, refers to the declaration that a marriage is null and void, as if it never existed. This concept is distinct from divorce, which acknowledges the existence of a marriage but dissolves it. While the term "annulment" is not explicitly found in the Bible, the principles surrounding marriage, vows, and the conditions under which they may be considered invalid can be explored through Scripture.Biblical Foundations of Marriage Marriage is instituted by God and is foundational to human relationships. Genesis 2:24 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This union is intended to be lifelong and exclusive, reflecting the covenant relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). Vows and Covenants The Bible places significant emphasis on the sanctity of vows and covenants. Numbers 30:2 underscores the importance of keeping one's word: "When a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word; he must do everything he has promised." This principle extends to marriage vows, which are made before God and witnesses. Grounds for Annulment While the Bible does not explicitly address annulment, certain principles can be inferred that might justify declaring a marriage invalid. These include: 1. Fraud or Deception: If a marriage is entered into under false pretenses or significant deception, it may be considered invalid. For example, Jacob's marriage to Leah, when he intended to marry Rachel, involved deception (Genesis 29:23-25). 2. Impediments to Marriage: Certain conditions, such as close kinship or pre-existing marriage, could render a marriage invalid according to biblical law (Leviticus 18:6-18). 3. Lack of Consent: A marriage entered into without the free and informed consent of both parties may be considered invalid. The Bible emphasizes mutual consent and willingness in marriage (Genesis 24:57-58). Divorce and Annulment Distinction While divorce is addressed in Scripture, particularly in the teachings of Jesus, annulment is not directly mentioned. Jesus speaks against divorce except in cases of sexual immorality (Matthew 19:9), highlighting the seriousness of the marriage covenant. However, annulment, as understood today, would apply to situations where a valid marriage never existed due to the aforementioned conditions. Church Authority and Annulment In the absence of direct biblical references to annulment, the authority to declare a marriage null and void often rests with church leadership. The church, guided by biblical principles, may determine the validity of a marriage based on the circumstances surrounding its inception. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly mention annulment, the principles of truth, consent, and covenant faithfulness provide a framework for understanding when a marriage may be considered invalid. The church plays a crucial role in discerning and applying these principles in the lives of believers. Topical Bible Verses Luke 16:18Whoever puts away his wife, and marries another, commits adultery: and whoever marries her that is put away from her husband commits adultery. Topicalbible.org 1 Corinthians 7:15 Matthew 19:9 Matthew 19:8 Greek 115. athetesis -- a setting aside ... Transliteration: athetesis Phonetic Spelling: (ath-et'-ay-sis) Short Definition: nullification, abrogation Definition: annulment, nullification, abrogation. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/115.htm - 7k 630. apoluo -- to set free, release Library Whether it is Necessary to Proceed by Way of Accusation for the ... The Holy See and the Wandering of the Nations. Prepositional Phrases Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence. The First victory for Dissent Seventh Tractate. Time and Eternity. Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... Summa Theologica Resources What is Donatism? | GotQuestions.orgAnnulling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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