Redefining Marriage

In the 1828 Merriam Webster dictionary, the definition of marriage is:

 “The act of uniting a man and woman for life; wedlock; the legal union of a man and woman for life. marriage is a contract both civil and religious, by which the parties engage to live together in mutual affection and fidelity, till death shall separate them. marriage was instituted by God himself for the purpose of preventing the promiscuous intercourse of the sexes, for promoting domestic felicity, and for securing the maintenance and education of children.”

When used in sentences it refers to the bible with phrases such as:

“Marriage is honorable in all and the bed undefiled. Hebrews 13:4”

“The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king, who made a marriage for his son. Matthew 22:2.”

 “In a scriptural sense, the union between Christ and his church by the covenant of grace. Revelation 19:7.”

Now I’d like to compare the 2020 definition of the word “marriage” in the Merriam Webster dictionary.

“the state of being united as spouses in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law”.

The variation between the two definitions is drastic. And below the 2020 version, is an explanation to their definition that says

 “The definition of the word marriage—or, more accurately, the understanding of what the institution of marriage properly consists of—continues to be highly controversial. This is not an issue to be resolved by dictionaries. Ultimately, the controversy involves cultural traditions, religious beliefs, legal rulings, and ideas about fairness and basic human rights. The principal point of dispute has to do with marriage between two people of the same sex, often referred to as same-sex marriage or gay marriage. Same-sex marriages are now recognized by law in a growing number of countries and were legally validated throughout the U.S. by the Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015. In many other parts of the world, marriage continues to be allowed only between men and women. The definition of marriage shown here is intentionally broad enough to encompass the different types of marriage that are currently recognized in varying cultures, places, religions, and systems of law.”

It appears their trying to justify how vague the definition is and almost apologize in this disclaimer. The difference between these two definitions truly reflects the culture of their time. Why has our current culture decided to take out that sacredness and purity that can only be obtained through marriage?

The concept of marriage isn’t complicated. This divine and holy union has been around since the earth was created, yet now the subject needs to be spoken about sensitively as well as with caution. From the beginning, marriage has been between a man and a woman. This statement is not made to exclude others or make individuals feel inadequate, but it is the simple definition that is ordained of God. This basic doctrine is central to the Creator’s plan for each and every one of us, so that we may recognize and achieve our eternal potential.