The Evolution of Marriage in Biblical Times and Beyond

From the earliest moments of human history, marriage has played a significant role in the structure and morality of societies. In the context of the Old Testament, the concept of marriage was not as formally organized as in modern times. This article explores the nature of marriage during this era and how it has evolved into the structured institution we recognize today.

No Formal Ceremony, Just Betrothal and Consumption

According to the Old Testament, there was no formal marriage ceremony, nor was there a specific 'marriage date.' A woman would first undergo a betrothal period, during which both parties would commit to one another. The betrothal was a pledge of intent to marry, often arranged by parents or other family members. Once the time arrived for the consummation of the marriage, typically after a short period of betrothal, the man would take his wife to his home, marking the transition to a marital union. This practice was not unique to Biblical times but was common in many ancient civilizations.

While the marriage was officially consummated at home, it is important to note that there might not necessarily have been a grand celebration. In fact, the wedding reception at the town of Cana, attended by Jesus, is a rare exception that showcases the splendor of such events. It is more of a tradition and not a mandatory part of the marriage ceremony.

God and the First Marriage

The concept of a divine marriage can be traced back to the very beginning of the human race, as described in the New Testament. God established this first marriage with Adam and Eve, and perhaps with all of their offspring, where siblings sometimes married one another. This practice is evident in some ancient societies but was not universally adopted. Even among those who practiced it, it was often subject to cultural and religious constraints.

Through the New Testament, we get insights into the practice of marriage. Jesus addressed the concept of marriage in Matthew 19:4-6, stating that 'At 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 no one separate.' Here, Jesus affirms the sanctity of marriage and the union of two individuals into a single entity.

Recognizing the Sacredness of Marriage

Jesus recognized the complicated nature of relationships, as exemplified in the story of the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:17-18. Despite her past complications, including her status as a known adulteress or prostitute, Jesus acknowledged her current marital status. He stated, 'You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is you have had five husbands and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.' This recognition highlights the complexity of the marriage dynamics and the importance of recognizing the sanctity of the relationship.

Similarly, the story of Jacob in Genesis provides an interesting perspective on marriage in the Old Testament. Jacob found his wives at his uncle's place, and no formal marriage ceremony was mentioned. Instead, there was a feast followed by Jacob cohabiting with them.

These passages underscore the importance of the consummation of the marriage as a symbol of one male and one female becoming one flesh, a principle underlying the sacred nature of marriage. The phrase 'one flesh' in Hebrew is 'echad,' which means 'one.' This mirrors the singularity of God, emphasizing the ideal of unity in marriage that mirrors the unity in the Godhead.

Global Marriage Practices

Marriage was predominantly a one-man-one-woman institution in civilizations worldwide, regardless of religious or atheistic beliefs. For instance, Native American societies practiced monogamous marriages, as did many followers of various religions. While some cultures embraced polygamy, most were strongly monogamous. Adultery and premarital sex were considered serious offenses, reflecting the deep respect for the sanctity of marriage that existed until the 1960s.

Modern Marriage Practices

Today, modern societies have largely maintained the one-man-one-woman model of marriage, but there are significant evolutions and debates around the topic. For example, the legalization of same-sex marriage in many countries has added a new layer of complexity to the institution. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about the role of divorce, fidelity, and the modern ideals of marriage.

Conclusion

The concept of marriage has evolved significantly from the days of the Old Testament to the present day. From the informal betrothal and consummation to the modern legal and cultural frameworks, marriage continues to be a vital aspect of human society. Understanding its roots and the diverse practices throughout history provides a richer perspective on the enduring significance of this institution.