The History Of Defining Marriage Theology Religion Essay Example

was known as "a man after God's own heart," was clearly a polygamist by modern standards. In ancient times, it was deemed acceptable for a man to have multiple wives as long as he could provide for each wife and their children. The determining factor for the number of allowed wives was his wealth and resourcefulness. This biblical practice allowed for a covenant between one man and multiple wives but did not permit women to have multiple husbands.

Contemplating this divine arrangement provides insights into the nature of both men and women. A husband can fulfill biblical expectations by possessing wealth, which enhances his ability to raise emotionally healthy children and satisfy his own sexual needs. This aspect encourages thought-provoking reflection;I would like to clarify that I am not suggesting that men should pursue multiple wives based solely on their wealth. It is important to note that traditional colonial Christianity seems to have stronger objections against polygamy than what is stated in the Bible itself. The Mormon Church, while considered deviant in its beliefs, once accepted polygamy for this reason. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that the Bible instructs us to obey government laws unless they conflict with God's laws.

Marriage has taken various forms throughout history and differs from our contemporary model. The book of Genesis presents a Judaic Betrothal model for marriage, which was an engagement-based covenantal relationship between a man and a woman and served as the Jewish system of engagement and marriage. The New Testament refers back to this covenantal engagement system.

Understanding this Judaic process of engagement is essential for comprehending the teachings of the New Testament, as God used it to

convey a spiritual message to humanity. To grasp ancient Hebrew marriage customs, one must first examine the biblical context of marriage. In ancient times, there was a protocol involving betrothal or becoming engaged before marrying someone. According to the Bible, Adam sought a suitable partner, and Eve was provided by God.
Adam, who had authority from God, diligently worked in His garden. The bond between Adam and Eve is a spiritual model discussed in Ephesians 5:30, where Paul explains the connection between a man and his wife. The Bible teaches us to prioritize what is natural before embracing spirituality. Adam symbolizes Christ, with his "sleep" representing crucifixion and resurrection, while Eve represents the church that comes from Christ's side. The tree signifies stewardship and the command to procreate represents discipleship. Their relationship is not merely an engagement but rather a journey.

We can see the concept of engagement earlier in Genesis 29 when Jacob travels to the land of the East and encounters a well in a field. At this well, three flocks of sheep lie for watering under a large rock which they remove to provide water for their sheep before replacing it. Jacob asks them about their origin and discovers that they are from Haran. He then inquires if they know Laban, son of Nahor, to which they affirmatively respond. They inform Jacob that Laban's daughter Rachel is on her way with the sheep.

Realizing it is still early and not yet time to gather cattle, Jacob instructs them to water the sheep first before feeding them. However, they explain that this can only be done once all flocks have gathered and they have moved the

rock covering the opening of the well.

During their conversation, Rachel arrives with her father's sheep since she too is a shepherdess.When Jacob noticed Rachel and Laban's sheep, he approached and moved the rock from the well's opening to water Laban's flock. Jacob kissed Rachel and was overwhelmed with emotions, causing him to weep loudly. He informed Rachel that he was her father's relative and Rebekah's son. Immediately, Rachel hurried to inform her father about this news. Upon hearing about Jacob, Laban rushed to meet him. He warmly embraced and kissed him before taking him to his house. Jacob proceeded to share all the events that had occurred with Laban.

Recognizing Jacob as his own family, Laban declared "Surely you are my flesh and blood." For a month, Jacob stayed with Laban. Concerned about their familial relationship, Laban questioned if it meant that Jacob should serve him for nothing and asked what reward would be suitable in return for his service.

Laban had two daughters - Leah (who had delicate eyes) and Rachel (who was beautiful both in form and appearance). Due to his love for Rachel, Laban made an agreement with Jacob consisting of seven years of service in order to marry her.Rachel accepted this offer because she preferred Jacob over other suitors.Laban agreed.Deeply affectionate towards Rachel,Jacob willingly served the full seven years which quickly passed for him.
Once the seven years were complete,Jacob asked permission from Labanto marry Rachel.Laban organized a banquetto celebrate the weddingand invitedall themenfrom their communityThe text explores the engagement process and historical Jewish marriage customs, highlighting Jacob's experience with Laban. Laban deceived Jacob by giving him Leah instead of Rachel as his wife.

As a result, Jacob consummated his marriage with Leah and also received her maidservant Zilpah. To marry Rachel, Jacob had two options: wait until someone married Leah or work an additional seven years in Laban's vineyard for Rachel while simultaneously marrying Leah if he chose to do so. This biblical account illustrates acceptance of polygamy and the engagement process. Despite not having strong feelings for Leah, Jacob still had children with her. The story serves as an example of how certain cultures today practice polygamy and follow engagement processes similar to ancient Jewish customs. According to the Bible, it was primarily the man's responsibility or his family's duty to find a suitable wife rather than women initiating or flirting with men. The Bible also emphasizes finding a virtuous woman; hence men or their families sought specific virtuous qualities along with physical attractiveness when searching for a wife. Additionally, the text discusses the significance of domestic abilities for a married woman and her contribution to the family's economy.
The text discusses the process of establishing a covenant agreement with the father, where labor is exchanged for marriage. It also mentions the payment of a dowry, which can be either labor or money. Once this agreement is made, the woman becomes unavailable for other marriage prospects. As part of this engagement, the woman receives covenant pieces like a coin worn around her neck to symbolize her commitment and unavailability.

The story of the lost coin in Luke 15:8-10 illustrates the significance of this engagement coin in determining the fate of her wedding. In this parable, a woman diligently searches for a lost coin until she finds it and shares

her joy with others. The parable also highlights how angels rejoice over one repentant sinner. The woman's anxiety comes from anticipating her groom's return at any moment; not wearing the coin could result in canceling the wedding with significant consequences. Finding the lost coin then becomes a cause for celebration.

Another item in this engagement set is a headstall that serves as her covering, indicating protection and connection either with her father's household or the groom. Additionally, there is a lampstand filled with oil that must constantly be kept by her side to maintain its light. It is crucial for the lamp to stay lit in case of the bridegroom's return; otherwise, calling off the wedding would occur.

This cultural tradition is addressed in Matthew 25 through the narrative of ten virgins who had lamps but only five were prepared with enough oil when their bridegroom arrived.The lamp symbolizes both the bride's commitment to her husband and their future children, signifying her devotion and unavailability for marriage to others. Finding a suitable place within the father's property is essential, highlighting the significance of family inheritance in ancient times. Providing housing was an obligation under the man's covenant towards his wife and her family; hence, a dowry was paid to demonstrate sufficient provisions and resources for taking care of the bride. This text explores traditional expectations and rituals surrounding marriage, dispelling misconceptions from modern society by emphasizing that wives were meant to be cherished rather than treated as servants. The groom bears responsibility for owning a house, acquiring resources, and paying a dowry to provide for his wife. These requirements may lead to fewer marriages or an increase

in responsible grooms. Once the dowry is paid, the groom surprises his bride upon returning to claim her. The bride displays all her compact pieces as a symbol of anticipation for her groom's arrival; any missing or misplaced piece signifies a broken compact, suggesting irresponsibility or infidelity and potentially leading to calling off the marriage.however, it is universally acknowledged as a fundamental social institution. The concept of marriage plays a crucial role within the family structure.

Marriage represents the ultimate union between two individuals, solidified through sexual intercourse. This act is followed by a week-long celebration with the bride. To validate the woman's purity and loyalty, sheets stained with evidence of her hymen being broken before marriage are publicly displayed to demonstrate her virginity.

The significance of marriage extends beyond the personal level and serves as a model for heterosexual relationships in human society. It provides harmony and tranquility for both parties involved. In this book, we will further explore the dynamics between the first man and woman in their relationship, highlighting its importance as an undeniable foundation of human existence.

Scholars have long been captivated by relationships and their impact on society. Sociology, which extensively studies social behavior and human groups, delves into these connections. Influential thinkers such as Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Karl Marx have greatly contributed to our understanding of sociology.

Sociology examines how societal connections influence people's attitudes and behaviors while also analyzing how societies are shaped and transformed. Various factors like culture, socialization, class, age, gender, race, and groups are investigated in determining individual and group behavior.

While sociology encompasses a broad range of human connections, special emphasis is placed on the family when

discussing society's foundation. The family has long been recognized as having immense influence over human conduct. Although people may define "family" differently from one anotherSome people only consider immediate family members, while others also include extended relatives. A family is a group of two or more individuals connected by marriage or bloodline. Families provide individuals with an understanding of important familial connections (paternal/maternal/affinity) and guidance on living arrangements and authority figures within the family unit. They have various roles such as religious education, formal education, and recreational activities. However, there are five important functions that families carry out to highlight their ongoing significance.

These functions include the reproduction and continuation of the family lineage, socialization and protection (including providing security, acceptance, a sense of belonging, identity, and affirmation), as well as regulating sexual behavior. While cultural norms regarding sexual behavior may change over time, families usually establish their own standards for acceptable conduct within their circle. They determine what is considered normal and acceptable while condemning behaviors like molestation.

Furthermore, households cultivate warm and intimate relationships to meet their members' emotional needs by offering care and support when necessary. Additionally, a family's societal status depends on its reputation and heritage; if highly respected in the community or society at large it can enhance one's social standing.Despite a growing trend where individuals choose not to start families or opt for divorce instead of marriage, while still desiring to have families eventually, research reveals multiple factors influencing people's choices. These factors include career opportunities, economic security, sexual availability, and the longing for a family. The state of marriages in the USA is concerning with average divorce rates of 50%

or higher. In the African American community, it is believed that rates reach around 70% or more indicating that only 3 out of 10 African American marriages remain intact. Key findings in marital research show a decline in the marriage rate in the U.S., which has persisted over decades based on recent data. However, there has been a recent positive shift in the percentage of couples who consider their marriages to be "very happy". Additionally, there has been a significant decrease in the number of marriages per 1000 single adult females with African-Americans experiencing the sharpest decline. On the other hand, unmarried couples have significantly increased over the past forty years as younger Americans now choose to live together before getting married due to beliefs that cohabitation helps determine compatibility and avoid bad marriages and divorces.However, research does not support the belief that cohabitation before marriage leads to a more stable relationship after marriage. Evidence suggests that those who live together before getting married are actually more likely to break up. The state of traditional heterosexual marriage in America is currently facing significant challenges, which poses a threat to society as a whole. Similar concerning trends can also be observed in other countries outside North America, as cited research found within this book reveals.

Historical evidence indicates that the failure of marriages and breakdown of family units played a role in the downfall of great empires like the Roman Empire. Marriage plays a crucial role in forming families, which are essential for modern societies. It is important to understand the definition of marriage and its connection to the concept of family, as well as recognize the

significance and role of family in contemporary society.

Marriage is vital for both societal sustainability and individuals' emotional well-being. This book explores various key factors that contribute to a successful and satisfactory marriage, emphasizing its foundational agreement supporting society. Additionally, it provides guidance on how individuals can make their own marriages satisfactory.

Some may question why I consistently use "tolerable" when discussing fulfillment in marriage. I choose this term because most relationships naturally prefer things to go their own way; however, unhealthy relationships often involve dominance by one personality typeIn contrast, healthy marriages involve the mutual recognition that compromise is necessary instead of always having one's own way—ultimately leading to tolerable and positive states in marriage.

Many people define happy marriages as ones where they always get what they want, but I define marriage as a place that is tolerable - somewhere you can live for the rest of your life without constantly questioning how long you can endure difficulties. It's essential to understand that being tolerable is actually an excellent position to be in, especially considering that no two people are identical and don't always desire the same things simultaneously. It's crucial for people to let go of fantasies and embrace the real world; one that isn't idealistic but grounded in reality. Additionally, it's important for individuals to realize that others aren't solely responsible for making them happy but instead should serve God. Nevertheless, it is possible to create an environment where both partners can serve God and tolerate each other throughout their lives.

Tolerance becomes the breaking point of a marriage.This book delves into the challenges faced when a union becomes difficult to bear.The text

highlights the significance of specific basic elements in a satisfactory marriage while also delving into the present condition of many relationships or marriages.