Throughout the Bible, various phrases and directives can often lead to confusion or misinterpretation, especially when taken out of context. One such phrase that has sparked curiosity and debate is "put away your wife." Many wonder what this phrase truly means within the biblical narrative and teachings. Is it a command to divorce, a metaphorical expression, or something else entirely? Understanding the biblical context and the cultural background of these passages is essential to grasp their true meaning. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about "putting away" a wife, clarify common misconceptions, and reflect on the spiritual lessons behind these scriptures.
What Does the Bible Mean When It Says Put Away Your Wife
The phrase "put away your wife" appears in several places within the Old and New Testaments, often associated with divorce or separation. To fully comprehend its significance, it is important to examine the original Hebrew and Greek terms, the cultural context of biblical times, and how biblical writers used these expressions to communicate their message.
Historical and Cultural Context of "Putting Away" a Wife
In biblical times, the concept of marriage and divorce was deeply rooted in the social and legal customs of the ancient Near East. The Hebrew term often translated as "put away" is shalach, which can mean "to send away," "to dismiss," or "to divorce." Similarly, in Greek, the word used in the New Testament is apoluo, meaning "to release" or "to divorce."
In ancient Israelite society, a man could "put away" his wife for various reasons—ranging from infidelity to perceived disfavor—though the degree of formal process and societal acceptance varied over time. The biblical texts reflect this practice and often address the moral and spiritual implications of such actions.
Divorce in the Bible: What Does "Put Away" Signify?
When the Bible speaks of "putting away" a wife, it generally refers to divorce or separation. However, the tone and context of these passages reveal important nuances:
- Old Testament: The phrase appears in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where Moses provides regulations for divorce, allowing a man to send away his wife if he finds "some indecency" in her. The Hebrew term used here emphasizes the act of dismissing or divorcing her.
- New Testament: Jesus addresses the issue in Matthew 19:3-9, emphasizing God's original intent for marriage and criticizing unjustified divorce. Here, "put away" is associated with ending the marital covenant.
- Other references: In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, Paul advises married couples to stay together but acknowledges that separation might occur, reflecting the ongoing reality of "putting away."
In these contexts, "put away" primarily signifies the act of ending a marriage through divorce or separation, often with moral and spiritual considerations involved.
Biblical Principles on Divorce and Separation
The Bible does not advocate for casual or unjustified divorce. Instead, it presents marriage as a sacred covenant established by God. Key principles include:
- Marriage as a divine institution: Genesis 2:24 describes marriage as a union ordained by God, emphasizing unity and permanence.
- Restrictions on divorce: Jesus teaches in Matthew 19:6 that what God has joined together, no one should separate, highlighting the seriousness of "putting away" a spouse.
- Conditions for divorce: The Bible recognizes circumstances such as sexual immorality (Matthew 19:9) as justifiable reasons for divorce.
- Reconciliation desire: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 encourages believers to pursue reconciliation rather than separation whenever possible.
Thus, "putting away" a wife, in biblical terms, is not simply about ending a marriage but involves serious moral and spiritual considerations, reflecting God's intentions for marriage as a lifelong commitment.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
There are several misconceptions surrounding the phrase "put away your wife." Clarifying these can help believers approach biblical teachings with a proper perspective:
- It always means divorce: Not necessarily. In some contexts, "put away" can refer to sending away without legal divorce, such as in cases of temporary separation or cultural customs.
- It implies rejection of marriage: The biblical emphasis is on faithfulness and covenant, not on dismissing the marriage lightly.
- It is a command for all situations: The Bible recognizes specific grounds and circumstances for divorce, not a universal mandate to "put away" one's wife.
Understanding these distinctions helps prevent misapplication of biblical texts and fosters a respectful view of marriage and its sanctity.
Reflections and Relevant Bible Verses
Reflecting on the biblical teachings about "putting away" a wife encourages believers to consider the spiritual and moral dimensions of marriage. Key verses include:
- Malachi 2:16: "For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away." This verse underscores God's displeasure with unjustified divorce.
- Matthew 19:8-9: Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of people's hearts but emphasizes God's original plan for marriage to be permanent.
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-11: Paul urges unity and reconciliation, warning against separation, but acknowledges that "if they cannot contain, let them marry."
- Romans 7:2-3: "For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband... So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress."
These scriptures highlight the importance of faithfulness, the seriousness of divorce, and God's desire for reconciliation whenever possible.
Conclusion: Embracing God's Design for Marriage
In summary, when the Bible refers to "putting away your wife," it generally pertains to the act of divorce or separation, often governed by moral and spiritual principles. While the biblical texts acknowledge circumstances where separation may occur, God's overarching desire is for marriage to be a lifelong covenant rooted in love, fidelity, and mutual respect. Believers are encouraged to seek reconciliation and uphold the sanctity of marriage, viewing "putting away" not as an end but as a serious step with profound spiritual implications. Understanding the biblical perspective helps believers navigate complex situations with wisdom, compassion, and adherence to God's original design for marriage, fostering healthier relationships and honoring God's divine plan.
