50 Bible Verses About Marriage

Introduction to Bible Verses About Marriage

In the vast expanse of human experience chronicled in the sacred scriptures, there is perhaps no relationship more profoundly explored than that of marriage. Among the pages filled with wisdom, prophecies, and testimonies, the Bible verses about marriage shine brightly, illustrating a path that interweaves divine principles with human emotions. 

Genesis 2:24 (NIV) provides the cornerstone of this understanding: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” This profound unity, of two distinct souls melding into one, is a divine spectacle, reflecting not just a social construct but a heavenly blueprint. It’s a fusion that resonates deeply, hinting at the grand design where individual identities converge into a singular, shared journey. 

The canvas of Bible verses about marriage is richly painted with diverse hues. From the fervent declarations of love in the Song of Solomon, where lovers exclaim, “Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death” (Song of Solomon 8:6, NIV), to the dutiful responsibilities and mutual respect advised in Ephesians 5:25 (NIV), “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” The Bible bridges the emotional and the practical, the passionate and the pragmatic. 

Moreover, the scriptures don’t merely celebrate the joyous peaks of marital life. They also offer solace and guidance through its valleys. As marriages encounter turbulence, 1 Corinthians 13:7 (NIV) resonates as a beacon: “It [Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” This enduring nature of love is a testament to its divine origin and the spiritual sustenance it provides. 

The sanctity of the marital bond echoes repeatedly in the scriptures. Hebrews 13:4 (NIV) emphasizes, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure,” signaling the respect and reverence this sacred union commands in the divine order. 

Immersing oneself in these Bible verses about marriage is akin to navigating a vast ocean, where each verse is a beacon, guiding us through calm waters and stormy seas alike. They remain timeless in their wisdom, echoing through the corridors of history, and resonate just as potently today, reminding us of the divine tapestry into which marriage is intricately woven. For those seeking depth, understanding, and guidance in marital journeys, the Bible extends an invitation to discover, reflect, and cherish.

The Importance and Sanctity of Marriage

The institution of marriage, as illustrated through the scriptures, is much more than a cultural tradition or a legal agreement. It’s a sacred covenant, blessed and ordained by God. Genesis 2:24 emphasizes this, stating a man shall leave his parents to unite with his wife, becoming one flesh. This divine origin of marriage places it beyond mere human constructs. It’s a holy union, a fusion of souls and lives, manifesting God’s plan for companionship and unity. The Bible underscores this sanctity repeatedly, reminding us that marriage is not only a social arrangement but a spiritual journey, guided and witnessed by God. 

Genesis 2:24

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. NIV

In Other Words: This is why a man departs from his parents and bonds with his wife, becoming one entity. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage transforms two individuals into one united entity, a divine design. 

Matthew 19:6

So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. 

In Other Words: Now that they’ve merged as one, no one should tear them apart. 

One-Line Summary: A union blessed by God is enduring, and human interference can’t break it. 

Hebrews 13:4

Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. 

In Other Words: Let everyone respect marriage and keep it pure, for God will judge the unfaithful. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage’s sanctity must be maintained; immoral actions invite divine consequences. 

Proverbs 18:22

He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD. 

In Other Words: Finding a wife means finding something good and receiving the LORD’s blessing. 

One-Line Summary: A virtuous wife is a testament to God’s favor in a man’s life. 

1 Corinthians 7:2

But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband. 

In Other Words: Because of rising immorality, every man should be with his wife and every woman with her husband. 

One-Line Summary: Commitment to one’s spouse safeguards against potential moral pitfalls. 

Malachi 2:14-15

You ask, ‘Why?’ It is because the LORD is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant. 

In Other Words: You wonder ‘Why?’ It’s because the LORD witnesses your unfaithfulness to the wife of your youth, your life partner. 

One-Line Summary: The bond with one’s life partner is under God’s observance; faithfulness is essential. 

Ephesians 5:31

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. 

In Other Words: For this cause, a man leaves his parents and unites with his wife, and together they become one. 

One-Line Summary: The bond between spouses mirrors the depth of connection between a child and parents. 

Mark 10:9

Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. 

In Other Words: What God has bound together, humans shouldn’t break apart. 

One-Line Summary: Divine blessings in unions are steadfast and shouldn’t be undermined by human actions. 

1 Timothy 3:2

Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach. 

In Other Words: A leader must be faultless, loyal to his wife, disciplined, dignified, welcoming, and wise. 

One-Line Summary: For leaders, an impeccable character is marked by loyalty and respect toward their spouse. 

Proverbs 19:14

Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD. 

In Other Words: Parents can leave houses and wealth, but a wise wife is a gift from the LORD. 

One-Line Summary: While tangible inheritance can be provided by parents, a prudent wife is a unique divine gift. 

The Role and Duties of a Husband and Wife

In the realm of marriage, the Bible outlines specific roles and duties for husbands and wives, not as a means of hierarchy, but as a harmonious balance. Ephesians 5:25 advises husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, a directive that speaks of sacrificial and unconditional love. Simultaneously, it calls upon wives in Ephesians 5:22 to respect their husbands, creating a mutual respect and understanding within the marital bond. These roles, rooted in love, respect, and mutual support, are designed to mirror the relationship between Christ and the church, emphasizing the spiritual depth and purpose within the marital union.

Colossians 3:19

Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. NIV

In Other Words: Husbands, show love to your wives and avoid being rough. 

One-Line Summary: Love in a marriage requires tenderness; harshness disrupts its harmony. 

1 Peter 3:7

Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect. 

In Other Words: Husbands, live understandingly with your wives, and value them. 

One-Line Summary: Husbands must value their wives, recognizing the spiritual equality shared in God’s grace. 

Proverbs 31:10

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 

In Other Words: Who can discover a wife of strong character? She’s more valuable than precious stones. 

One-Line Summary: A woman of unyielding virtue is invaluable and hard to find. 

Ephesians 5:22-24

Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. 

In Other Words: Wives, respect your husbands as you would the Lord. 

One-Line Summary: Wives should uphold respect and unity in marriage, echoing the Church’s reverence for Christ. 

Colossians 3:18

Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 

In Other Words: Wives, show respect to your husbands, as the Lord would want. 

One-Line Summary: Wives, in their commitment, should uphold and honor the sacred marriage covenant. 

Titus 2:5

To be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. 

In Other Words: Be composed, pure, manage the home, be kind, and respect your husbands so that God’s message is uplifted. 

One-Line Summary: A woman’s character, marked by purity and kindness, upholds and exemplifies God’s teachings. 

1 Peter 3:1

Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives. 

In Other Words: Wives, respect your husbands, so even those skeptical of the word may be convinced by your conduct. 

One-Line Summary: A wife’s honorable behavior can inspire faith even in the most skeptical of her spouse. 

Genesis 21:12

For it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. 

In Other Words: Isaac will carry on your legacy.

One-Line Summary: Legacies are often continued through offspring; trust in divine providence. 

1 Corinthians 7:3

The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 

In Other Words: Husbands and wives should fulfill their commitments to each other. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage is a mutual commitment; both partners have responsibilities to each other. 

Ephesians 5:25

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. 

In Other Words: Husbands, cherish your wives, as Christ cherishes the church, sacrificing for her. 

One-Line Summary: Husbands should mirror Christ’s selfless love for the church in their love for their wives. 

Fidelity and Trust in Marriage

The Bible places immense importance on fidelity and trust within marriage. Proverbs 5:18-19 celebrates the joy of marital love and the blessings of a faithful relationship. Conversely, it warns of the dire consequences of infidelity and betrayal, as seen in Hebrews 13:4, which speaks of keeping the marriage bed pure. Trust and fidelity are portrayed not just as moral choices but as foundational pillars of a strong marital bond, crucial for the emotional and spiritual well-being of both partners. In these verses, the Bible imparts wisdom on maintaining integrity and faithfulness, essential for the health and sanctity of any marriage. 

Malachi 2:16

The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the LORD, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the LORD Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful. 

In Other Words: God of Israel warns against betraying your spouse, especially the one you vowed to protect. Stay true and faithful. 

One-Line Summary: Betraying one’s spouse is a grave offense in God’s eyes; faithfulness is paramount. 

Matthew 5:32

But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. 

In Other Words: Any man who divorces his wife, barring infidelity, causes her to be labeled an adulteress, and marrying her means committing adultery. 

One-Line Summary: Divorce, except in cases of infidelity, can inadvertently promote adultery. 

Proverbs 5:15

Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. 

In Other Words: Savor the fresh water from your own spring. 

One-Line Summary: Faithfulness is akin to drinking from one’s own pure fountain of water. 

Exodus 20:14

You shall not commit adultery. 

In Other Words: Adultery is forbidden. 

One-Line Summary: Adultery is not just an act but a breach of divine command. 

1 Corinthians 7:4

The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. 

In Other Words: In marriage, a wife grants her body to her husband, and he grants his body to her. 

One-Line Summary: In marriage, spouses entrust their entirety to each other, symbolizing deep unity. 

Hosea 3:1

Then the LORD said to me, ‘Go again, love a woman who is loved by her husband, yet an adulteress…’ 

In Other Words: The LORD said, ‘Once again, love a woman, even though she’s loved by another and is unfaithful. 

One-Line Summary: Love can persist even amid betrayal, reflecting God’s unconditional love for the unfaithful. 

Proverbs 6:32

But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself. 

In Other Words: A man who is unfaithful lacks wisdom; he harms himself. 

One-Line Summary: Adultery is a manifestation of foolishness, causing self-inflicted harm. 

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5

It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality. 

In Other Words: God desires your purity: steer clear of immorality. 

One-Line Summary: God desires purity from His followers, urging them to steer clear of immoral desires. 

Hebrews 13:4

Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 

In Other Words: Hold marriage in high regard, keeping its commitment sacred. God will judge the unfaithful. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage demands honor, and the bed shared by spouses should remain undefiled. 

Proverbs 5:18-19

May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. 

In Other Words: May you always find joy with the wife you knew in your youth. 

One-Line Summary: Rejoice in the enduring love shared with your youthful partner. 

Love and Companionship in Marriage

At the heart of the biblical perspective on marriage is the theme of love and companionship. Verses like Song of Solomon 8:6-7 poetically describe the intense and passionate nature of love within marriage, depicting it as a force as strong as death. The Bible doesn’t just view marriage as a contractual agreement but as a journey of deep, abiding love and companionship. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 speaks to the strength and comfort found in partnership, emphasizing that life’s burdens are easier to bear when shared with a loving spouse. These scriptures convey that love in marriage is a gift, a source of strength, and a reflection of God’s love. 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. 

In Other Words: Two working together achieve more. If one falls, the other offers a helping hand. 

One-Line Summary: Partnership amplifies strength; having someone ensures support during trials. 

Song of Solomon 4:10

How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume more than any spice! 

In Other Words: our love brings such delight, more intoxicating than the finest wine. 

One-Line Summary: Genuine love elicits unparalleled joy, surpassing even the most exquisite pleasures. 

Song of Solomon 1:2

Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine. 

In Other Words: Your loving kisses are more delightful than the richest wine. 

One-Line Summary: Affection between partners is intoxicating and joyous. 

Song of Solomon 2:16

My beloved is mine and I am his; he browses among the lilies. 

In Other Words: My love is mine, and I am his; he wanders among the flowers. 

One-Line Summary: Mutual ownership in love ensures both partners remain devoted. 

Song of Solomon 3:4

I found the one my heart loves. I held him and would not let him go. 

In Other Words: I found my true love. I held onto him and wouldn’t let go. 

One-Line Summary: When true love is found, it’s to be held onto tightly. 

Genesis 29:20

So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her. 

In Other Words: For Rachel, Jacob willingly gave seven years, which felt fleeting due to his deep love. 

One-Line Summary: True love can make the most challenging sacrifices seem trivial. 

Proverbs 5:19

May her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love. 

In Other Words: Let her affection always captivate you, and remain drunk with her love. 

One-Line Summary: Continuous affection and attraction towards one’s spouse is essential for marital bliss. 

Song of Solomon 7:10

I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me. 

In Other Words: I am his, and he yearns for me. 

One-Line Summary: Mutual longing and yearning define deep-rooted love. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient, love is kind… it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 

In Other Words: True love is patient and kind… it safeguards, trusts, remains hopeful, and always endures. 

One-Line Summary: Genuine love embodies patience, kindness, trust, hope, and enduring resilience. 

Song of Solomon 8:6-7

Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death… many waters cannot quench love, rivers cannot sweep it away. 

In Other Words: Wear me like a seal over your heart; love’s power rivals death… nothing can diminish it. 

One-Line Summary: Love’s power is unyielding, even in the face of life’s most potent adversities. 

Facing Challenges Together

Marriage, according to the Bible, is not immune to challenges and struggles. However, the scriptures provide guidance and encouragement for navigating these together. 1 Corinthians 7:15 acknowledges the complexities and difficulties that can arise in marital life, but also emphasizes the importance of peace and mutual understanding. Verses like 1 Peter 4:8 and Romans 12:10 encourage couples to love deeply and honor each other, suggesting that the trials faced in marriage can be overcome through love, patience, and perseverance. These teachings highlight that while challenges are inevitable, the strength of a marriage lies in the couple’s ability to face them unitedly, with faith and love as their guiding principles. 

1 Peter 3:7

 As with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered. 

In Other Words: Treat her gently, understanding her fragility, and show her honor as someone who shares in the gift of life, ensuring your prayers aren’t hindered. 

One-Line Summary: Recognizing a wife’s worth ensures a harmonious relationship and unhindered prayers. 

Ecclesiastes 9:9

Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun—all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun. 

In Other Words: Relish life with the spouse you adore throughout the fleeting days given under the sun, for it’s part of your journey. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage is a journey of shared joys and challenges, to be relished throughout life. 

Proverbs 31:12

She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 

In Other Words: She consistently does good for him, never causing harm. 

One-Line Summary: A virtuous wife consistently uplifts her husband. 

Ruth 1:16-17

But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’ 

In Other Words: Ruth responded, ‘Don’t push me away. I’ll go where you go, stay where you stay. Your people and God will be mine.’ 

One-Line Summary: True commitment in relationships means unwavering loyalty in every circumstance. 

1 Corinthians 7:28

But if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this. 

In Other Words: If you choose to marry, you haven’t sinned. Marriage comes with its set of challenges, and I wish to shield you from them. 

One-Line Summary: Marriage is beautiful but comes with its set of challenges, requiring preparedness. 

Ephesians 4:32

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. 

In Other Words: Be gentle and caring towards one another, forgiving just as Christ forgave you. 

One-Line Summary: Kindness and forgiveness towards each other strengthens the marital bond. 

1 Corinthians 13:7

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 

In Other Words: Love endures every challenge, trusts always, remains hopeful, and stands the test of time. 

One-Line Summary: Love has the enduring power to withstand, trust, hope, and persevere through all. 

1 Peter 4:8

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 

In Other Words: Prioritize deep love for one another, for love forgives many wrongs. 

One-Line Summary: Deep-seated love can overcome and forgive many transgressions. 

Romans 12:10

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 

In Other Words: Be deeply connected in love. Place the needs of others before your own. 

One-Line Summary: Love in marriage calls for prioritizing the other’s needs and bestowing honor. 

1 Corinthians 7:15

But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace. 

In Other Words: If an unbelieving partner departs, let them. In such situations, you’re free. We’re called to harmony by God. 

One-Line Summary: If an unbelieving spouse chooses separation, the remaining partner should pursue peace. 

Conclusion

As we reflect upon the journey through these Bible verses about marriage, it becomes evident that the holy scriptures offer not just guidelines but a profound understanding of the essence of marital union. Proverbs 18:22 (NIV) beautifully encapsulates this sentiment, declaring, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.” Marriage, as portrayed in the Bible, is not just an earthly bond; it’s a divine connection that bestows blessings and favor upon those who honor and cherish it. 

Colossians 3:14 (NIV) further reinforces the significance of love in this sacred relationship: “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” It’s a gentle reminder that love is the thread that seamlessly binds every virtue, every responsibility, and every emotion within the realm of marriage. 

As we conclude our exploration, 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV) stands out with its profound wisdom, urging us to prioritize love above all, as “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” This verse, like many other Bible verses about marriage, underlines that love, when deeply and genuinely felt, has the power to overcome challenges, forgive imperfections, and strengthen bonds. 

In the grand tapestry of life, marriage emerges as a pivotal chapter, full of lessons, joys, challenges, and, most importantly, love. The Bible, with its profound verses, serves as both a compass and a comforting companion, guiding us towards building and nurturing a union that reflects the divine intentions and blessings.

6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Marriage Bible Verses

A Prayer Inspired by Marriage Bible Verses

In the sacred journey of marriage, where two souls are intertwined in love and commitment, prayer is a powerful tool. It connects us with God, seeking His guidance and blessings in nurturing the union He has ordained. The following prayer is inspired by the profound wisdom found in the Bible verses about marriage, embracing the principles of love, respect, fidelity, and companionship that these scriptures illuminate.

Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Marriage

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, grateful for the gift of marriage, a divine covenant that You have blessed and sanctified. As we navigate this sacred journey together, we seek Your wisdom and guidance, inspired by Your Word.

Lord, just as You brought Eve to Adam, creating a partnership that reflected Your perfect plan (Genesis 2:24), guide us in fostering a bond of unity and understanding. May our love for each other mirror the love Christ has for the church, selfless, enduring, and pure (Ephesians 5:25).

Help us, O God, to honor and respect each other, living out the roles You have designed for us with grace and love. May our marriage be a testament to mutual respect and support, as instructed in Your scriptures (Ephesians 5:22-25).

We pray for the strength to remain faithful in thought and deed. In a world where temptations abound, let our commitment to each other and to You remain steadfast, as You have taught us the importance of fidelity (Hebrews 13:4; Proverbs 5:18-19).

In moments of challenge and adversity, remind us that love endures all things. May we always find solace and strength in each other, upholding our bond through patience, kindness, and perseverance (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

May our relationship always be a source of joy, comfort, and support, as we cherish each day together, just as Solomon celebrated love in his songs (Song of Solomon 8:6-7).

And in all things, Lord, we ask for Your guidance to lead our marriage in a way that honors You, reflects Your love, and brings glory to Your name.

In Jesus’ name, we pray,

Amen.