Definition and Origin
The concept of marriage as a divine institution is rooted in the earliest chapters of the Bible. According to Genesis, marriage was established by God at the creation of humanity. 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 verse underscores the foundational principle of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, ordained by God.

Purpose of Marriage
Marriage serves several purposes according to biblical teachings. It is designed for companionship, procreation, and mutual support. In Genesis 2:18 , God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." This highlights the role of marriage in providing companionship and partnership. Additionally, marriage is the context for fulfilling the command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28), emphasizing its role in procreation and the continuation of humanity.

Marriage as a Covenant
The Bible presents marriage as a covenant, a sacred and binding agreement. Malachi 2:14 refers to marriage as a "covenant with your wife," indicating its solemn and enduring nature. This covenantal aspect is further reinforced by Jesus in the New Testament, who teaches that marriage is a lifelong commitment: "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" (Matthew 19:6).

Roles and Responsibilities
Scripture outlines specific roles and responsibilities for husbands and wives within marriage. Ephesians 5:22-33 provides a detailed description of these roles, instructing wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord and husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. This passage emphasizes mutual respect and sacrificial love, with the husband called to lead with love and the wife to support with respect.

Marriage and Holiness
Marriage is also portrayed as a means of sanctification and holiness. Hebrews 13:4 states, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers." This underscores the importance of fidelity and purity within the marital relationship, reflecting God's design for marriage as a holy union.

Marriage and Society
The Bible presents marriage as a foundational institution for society. It is the primary context for raising children and instilling values, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 , which instructs parents to teach God's commandments to their children. The stability and health of the family unit, rooted in the marriage covenant, are seen as essential for the well-being of society as a whole.

Challenges and Redemption
While the Bible sets forth an ideal for marriage, it also acknowledges the challenges and brokenness that can occur. Divorce, though permitted in certain circumstances, is not part of God's original design. Jesus addresses this in Matthew 19:8 , stating, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because of your hardness of heart, but it was not this way from the beginning." The Bible offers redemption and grace for those who have experienced brokenness in marriage, emphasizing forgiveness and restoration.

Conclusion
The biblical command for marriage is a profound and multifaceted teaching that encompasses divine intention, covenantal commitment, and societal impact. It calls for a lifelong partnership characterized by love, respect, and holiness, reflecting God's design for human relationships.