Introduction

Marriage and betrothal hold a significant place within the biblical narrative, reflecting God's design for human relationships. The sanctity of marriage is rooted in the creation account and is consistently affirmed throughout Scripture. Betrothal, as a precursor to marriage, underscores the commitment and covenantal nature of this union.

Biblical Foundations

The concept of marriage is first introduced in Genesis, where God creates man and woman. 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 foundational verse establishes marriage as a divinely ordained institution, characterized by unity and exclusivity.

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6 , He says, "Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." Here, Jesus emphasizes the permanence and sacredness of the marital bond.

The Role of Betrothal

Betrothal in biblical times was a formal engagement period, more binding than modern-day engagements. It was a time of preparation and commitment, often involving legal and familial agreements. The betrothal period underscored the seriousness of the marriage covenant.

In the account of Mary and Joseph, we see the significance of betrothal. Matthew 1:18-19 describes, "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and was unwilling to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to divorce her quietly." This passage highlights the binding nature of betrothal, as Joseph is referred to as Mary's husband even before the marriage was consummated.

Marriage as a Covenant

Marriage is consistently portrayed in Scripture as a covenantal relationship. Malachi 2:14 refers to marriage as a covenant, stating, "Yet you ask, 'Why?' Because the LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant." This covenantal aspect underscores the faithfulness and commitment expected within marriage.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the covenantal nature of marriage in Ephesians 5:31-32 , "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." Here, Paul draws a parallel between the marital relationship and the relationship between Christ and the Church, emphasizing the depth and sacredness of the marriage covenant.

Moral and Ethical Implications

The sanctity of marriage carries significant moral and ethical implications. Hebrews 13:4 exhorts, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers." This verse calls for the preservation of purity within marriage, highlighting the importance of fidelity and moral integrity.

The biblical view of marriage also upholds the complementary roles of husband and wife. Ephesians 5:22-25 instructs, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." This passage outlines a framework of mutual love and respect, with Christ's sacrificial love as the model for marital relationships.

Conclusion

The sanctity of marriage and betrothal is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's design for human relationships. Through the covenantal nature of marriage, the moral and ethical implications, and the complementary roles of husband and wife, Scripture provides a comprehensive understanding of the sacredness of this union.