Topical Encyclopedia The concept of marriage is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, serving as a foundational institution established by God. The Bible presents marriage as a covenantal relationship between a man and a woman, designed for companionship, procreation, and mutual support.Creation and Purpose The institution of marriage is first introduced in the creation account. In Genesis 2:18, God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper." This statement underscores the divine intention for companionship. The subsequent verses describe the creation of Eve from Adam's rib, symbolizing the intimate and equal partnership intended in marriage. Genesis 2:24 further establishes the marital bond: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." Covenantal Nature Marriage is depicted as a covenant, a sacred agreement that reflects God's covenant with His people. Malachi 2:14-15 emphasizes this aspect: "The LORD is a witness between you and the wife of your youth. She is your companion and your wife by covenant." This covenantal view elevates marriage beyond a mere social contract, imbuing it with spiritual significance and responsibility. Roles and Responsibilities The New Testament provides further insight into the roles and responsibilities within marriage. Ephesians 5:22-33 outlines a framework where husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church, and wives are encouraged to respect their husbands. This passage highlights the sacrificial love and mutual submission that should characterize a Christian marriage. The husband's role as a loving leader and the wife's role as a supportive partner are seen as complementary, reflecting the unity and diversity within the Godhead. Procreation and Family One of the primary purposes of marriage is procreation and the raising of godly offspring. Genesis 1:28 commands, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it." Children are viewed as a blessing from the Lord, and the family unit is seen as the primary context for nurturing and instructing them in the ways of God (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Marital Fidelity Fidelity within marriage is a recurring theme in Scripture. The seventh commandment, "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14), underscores the importance of faithfulness. Proverbs 5:18-19 celebrates the joy and satisfaction found in a faithful marital relationship, while Hebrews 13:4 warns, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers." Challenges and Redemption The Bible acknowledges the challenges that can arise in marriage, including conflict and the potential for divorce. Jesus addresses the issue of divorce in Matthew 19:3-9, affirming the sanctity of marriage while allowing for divorce in cases of sexual immorality. However, the overarching biblical narrative emphasizes reconciliation and forgiveness, reflecting God's redemptive work in Christ. Symbolism of Christ and the Church Marriage is also a profound symbol of the relationship between Christ and the Church. Ephesians 5:31-32 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church." This analogy elevates the marital relationship, portraying it as a living illustration of divine love and unity. In summary, the biblical view of marriage is one of a sacred, covenantal union designed by God for companionship, procreation, and the reflection of His relationship with His people. It is a relationship marked by love, fidelity, and mutual respect, serving as a cornerstone for family and society. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (v.) of or pertaining to a husband; as, marital rights, duties, authority.Greek 630. apoluo -- to set free, release ... 630 ("to release") is specifically used of a marital partner (Mt 1:19, 5:31,32, 19:7-9 -- parallels at Mk 10:2-12; Lk 16:18). : The ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/630.htm - 10k Library Whether Matrimony is Fittingly Defined in the Text? Whether Impotence is an Impediment to Marriage? Whether Before the Marriage Has Been Consummated one Consort Can ... Whether a Second Marriage is a Sacrament? Chapter vi The Service Common to Two and Many Female Martyrs. The General Service to an Apostle. The Service to a Female Martyr. The General Service to a Hiero-Confessor or Monk-Confessor. Introduction Thesaurus Marital (4 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (v.) of or pertaining to a husband; as, marital rights, duties, authority. Multi-Version Concordance Marital (4 Occurrences). ... /m/marital.htm - 7k Songs (100 Occurrences) Woman (4043 Occurrences) Song (207 Occurrences) Rights (35 Occurrences) Reduce (13 Occurrences) Deprive (17 Occurrences) Diminish (22 Occurrences) Maritime (1 Occurrence) Marishes (1 Occurrence) Resources Why is marital infidelity so destructive? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about sex in marriage / marital sex? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about spousal/marital rape? | GotQuestions.org Marital: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Marital (4 Occurrences)Matthew 5:32 Matthew 19:9 1 Corinthians 7:3 Exodus 21:10 Subtopics Related Terms |