What does Matthew 5:32 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 5:32 presents Jesus' teaching on the issue of divorce.

The verse suggests that, according to Jesus, the only justifiable reason to divorce one's spouse is infidelity, which is termed here as 'fornication.' The verse further implies that by divorcing a spouse for any reason other than fornication, a person effectively causes the spouse to commit adultery should they remarry.

Jesus reinforces the sanctity of marriage, underscoring that marriage is intended to be a lifelong covenant and that breaking this covenant lightly is tantamount to causing sin.

Historical Context

In the historical context of 1st-century Jewish society, the Mosaic Law permitted divorce for various reasons.

As described in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, a man could write a "bill of divorcement" if he found "some uncleanness" in his wife.

During Jesus' time, rabbis were divided on the interpretation of this phrase, with some taking a more strict view and others a more liberal view that allowed for divorce on numerous grounds.

Jesus’ statement in Matthew 5:32 reflects a stringent interpretation of the divorce laws, and aims to address and reform the casual attitudes toward divorce that were prevalent at the time.

Theological Insights

Different theological views approach this verse from a variety of perspectives.

Traditional Christian viewpoints tend to align with the literal interpretation that divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality.

Catholic teaching, especially, views marriage as a sacrament that is indissoluble, allowing for separation but not remarriage unless the marriage is annulled.

In contrast, some Protestant denominations might permit divorce and remarriage more readily, citing the importance of grace and forgiveness.

There are also discussions about the nature of 'fornication' and whether this term encompasses a broader range of sexual sins or is strictly limited to adultery.

Practical Applications

From a practical standpoint, this teaching emphasizes the seriousness with which marriage should be undertaken.

It encourages individuals to work through marital difficulties rather than resorting to divorce on non-severe grounds.

For contemporary Christians, these words could serve as a reminder of the commitment required in marriage and the need for discernment and wisdom in dealing with marital challenges.

It also raises the issue of providing pastoral care and support for those who have undergone divorce.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:9 - "And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery."
• Mark 10:11-12 - "And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.

And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery."

• 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 - "And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife."

Language Study

The key word in the original Greek text of this passage is "πορνεία" (porneia), translated as "fornication." The term can refer to various forms of illicit sexual behavior, including adultery, prostitution, and other sexual sins.

The use of "πορνεία" is significant as it is the only condition mentioned by Jesus that justifies divorce.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this teaching with other ancient laws and religious traditions, it is evident that Judaism and Christianity place a stronger emphasis on the sanctity of marriage.

Ancient societies often had more lax attitudes toward divorce and remarriage.

For instance, in ancient Rome, divorce was relatively common and could be initiated by either the husband or the wife, a stark contrast to 1st-century Jewish practice where only men could issue a writ of divorce.

Scientific Perspectives

Intersecting this verse with modern scientific understandings pertains more to the psychological and sociological impacts of divorce rather than physical sciences.

Research on the effects of divorce on individuals and families could further inform the wisdom or consequences of endorsing or discouraging divorce from a faith-based perspective.

Commentaries

Various Biblical scholars and theologians have provided commentaries on Matthew 5:32.

Some assert that Jesus is challenging the moral laxity of His day, emphasizing the inviolability of the marriage covenant.

Others suggest a historical-critical approach that seeks to understand Jesus' words within the context of 1st-century Jewish debates on divorce.

They note the radical nature of His teaching in the context of allowing for divorce only on the grounds of sexual immorality, while also highlighting Jesus' concern for the social and moral welfare of the individuals involved, particularly the vulnerable position of women in a culture where remarriage was often necessary for economic survival.