What does Mark 10:9 mean?

Explanation

Mark 10:9 "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." This verse, spoken by Jesus, addresses the sanctity of marriage. The literal meaning is straightforward: a marriage sanctioned by God should not be separated by human intervention.

However, the deeper meaning delves into the idea of divine providence and the permanence of relationships ordained by God. It implies that marriage is not merely a legal contract but a spiritual union intended to last.

Historical Context

This verse comes from a conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees recorded in the Gospel of Mark.

During the time of Jesus, the Pharisees, a Jewish religious sect, questioned him about the legality of divorce, testing his adherence to Mosaic Law.

Jesus responded by emphasizing the sacredness of marriage as established from the beginning of creation.

Marriage was a cornerstone in Jewish culture and religious practice, and the debate on divorce was a contentious issue in which different rabbinical schools had their interpretations.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is significant in several ways.

For Christians, it underlines the covenantal nature of marriage as instituted by God.

It enhances the idea of the indissolubility of marriage, reflecting Roman Catholic theology, which sees marriage as one of the seven sacraments, a sacred, binding, and lifelong commitment.

In contrast, some Protestant traditions consider marriage a sacred bond but allow for divorce under certain circumstances, reflecting varying interpretations of scriptural guidance.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this scripture encourages individuals to view marriage as a lasting commitment and to work through difficulties rather than seeking separation.

It advocates for the values of forgiveness, perseverance, and dedication within a marriage.

Couples may be influenced by this verse to seek marital counseling and religious support when facing challenges, and faith communities may use it to promote the importance of marriage preparation and enrichment.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:6 "Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh.

What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."

• Ephesians 5:31 "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh."
• Genesis 2:24 "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key phrase is "οὐ χωριζέτω ἄνθρωπος" (ou chorizeto anthropos), where "οὐ" (ou) means "not," "χωριζέτω" (chorizeto) is a third-person singular present imperative form of "χωρίζω" (chorizo), meaning "to separate" or "put asunder," and "ἄνθρωπος" (anthropos) means "man" or "human." The imperative mood gives this phrase the force of a command, and "ἄνθρωπος" is inclusive, applying to all humanity rather than just males.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, such as those in Rome and Greece, the concept of marriage and divorce varied greatly, often with more permissive attitudes towards ending marriages.

This Judeo-Christian perspective on the indissolubility of marriage stood in contrast to these cultures.

Comparatively, in some Eastern religions like Hinduism, marriage is also viewed as a sacred and lifelong commitment, with the notion of a divine witness to the union.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives generally do not encroach upon theological principles of marriage.

However, psychology examines the effects of marital stability and dissolution on individuals and society.

Stability in marriage is often associated with positive psychological well-being, whereas divorce can be correlated with various stressors and negative outcomes for couples and children involved.

Commentaries

Various Biblical commentators have explored the depths of Mark 10:9.

John Calvin highlights the original plan of God for a man and woman to be united for life.

Matthew Henry emphasizes that the bond of marriage is not to be broken at people's pleasure, but only for the grave reasons God allows.

Contemporary theologians and Bible scholars often discuss this verse in light of the increasing rates of divorce, societal changes in the views on marriage, and the need to balance compassion with upholding religious teachings.