Mark 10:11

KJV

And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he saith {G3004} unto them {G846}, Whosoever {G3739}{G1437} shall put away {G630} his {G846} wife {G1135}, and {G2532} marry {G1060} another {G243}, committeth adultery {G3429} against {G1909} her {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against his wife;

Berean Standard Bible

So He told them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her.

American Standard Version

And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 10:11 presents Jesus' profound and counter-cultural declaration on the sanctity and permanence of marriage, asserting that a husband who divorces his wife and subsequently marries another woman commits adultery against his original wife. This statement fundamentally redefines the prevailing legalistic interpretations of divorce, elevating God's original design for marriage as an indissoluble covenant and highlighting the profound spiritual and relational harm inflicted by its dissolution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of a crucial teaching moment for Jesus, beginning in [Mark 10:2](/mark/10-2 "Mark 10:2 - Pharisees Test Jesus on Divorce"). The Pharisees approach Jesus, not out of genuine inquiry, but to test Him on the lawfulness of divorce, a highly debated topic among rabbinic schools (Hillel vs. Shammai). Jesus initially directs them to the Mosaic Law ([Deuteronomy 24:1-4](/deuteronomy/24-1-4 "Deuteronomy 24:1-4 - The Law of Divorce")), but then transcends it by appealing to God's foundational design for marriage in [Genesis 1:27](/genesis/1-27 "Genesis 1:27 - Creation of Man and Woman") and [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - One Flesh Union"). He emphasizes the "one flesh" union and declares, "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" ([Mark 10:9](/mark/10-9 "Mark 10:9 - Indissolubility of Marriage")). Mark 10:11 then serves as Jesus' explicit and stark clarification, likely given privately to His disciples after the public discourse, detailing the consequence of violating this divine principle.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Jewish society, divorce was a common practice, almost exclusively initiated by men. The interpretation of [Deuteronomy 24:1](/deuteronomy/24-1 "Deuteronomy 24:1 - Certificate of Divorce") was highly contentious, with the Hillel school permitting divorce for virtually any reason (e.g., burning a meal), while the Shammai school limited it to severe sexual impropriety. Women had very few rights in this process and were often left vulnerable and destitute after divorce. Jesus' teaching in [Mark 10](/mark/10 "Mark 10 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce and Riches") was revolutionary, challenging the patriarchal norms and legalistic loopholes that diminished the sanctity of marriage and often exploited women. By stating that remarriage after divorce constitutes adultery "against her," Jesus radically shifts the culpability and elevates the status and protection of the wife in a deeply patriarchal culture.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme is the **sanctity and indissolubility of marriage** as a divine institution. Jesus re-establishes marriage as a lifelong covenant, a "one flesh" union ordained by God, not merely a human contract. This teaching underscores the **radical nature of Jesus' ethics**, which often went beyond the letter of the Mosaic Law to reveal God's original intent and the spirit of the Law, as seen in His teachings on murder and anger ([Matthew 5:21-22](/matthew/5-21-22 "Matthew 5:21-22 - Anger and Murder")) or lust and adultery ([Matthew 5:27-28](/matthew/5-27-28 "Matthew 5:27-28 - Lust and Adultery")). Furthermore, the verse highlights **God's concern for the vulnerable**, as Jesus' words implicitly protect the wronged wife, granting her dignity and rights in a society that often denied them. It also introduces the grave consequence of **adultery in remarriage**, emphasizing the ongoing validity of the original marriage bond in God's eyes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **put away (Greek, _apolýō'_):** This term (G630) means "to free fully," "to relieve," "to release," "to dismiss," or "to divorce." In the context of marriage, it refers to the formal act of legal separation, the issuance of a bill of divorce. Jesus uses this common legal term but redefines its spiritual implications, asserting that even a legally recognized divorce does not dissolve the spiritual "one flesh" bond in God's eyes.
* **marry (Greek, _gaméō'_):** Derived from `gámos` (marriage), this word (G1060) means "to wed" or "to marry." Jesus' use of this term in conjunction with `apolýō` highlights the sequence of actions: a divorce followed by entering into a new marital union. The implication is that this second union, while perhaps legal in human terms, is illicit in God's sight if the original marriage bond remains valid.
* **committeth adultery (Greek, _moicháō'_):** This verb (G3429), in the middle voice, means "to commit adultery." It is a strong and unambiguous term for sexual unfaithfulness. By applying this term to remarriage after divorce, Jesus equates the act with a violation of the seventh commandment ([Exodus 20:14](/exodus/20-14 "Exodus 20:14 - The Seventh Commandment")). The crucial addition of "against her" underscores the specific offense against the original wife, who remains bound in God's eyes, and positions her as the wronged party.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he saith unto them,"**: This phrase indicates Jesus' authoritative declaration, following the public exchange with the Pharisees. It is likely addressed to His disciples, who sought further clarity on such a significant and challenging teaching. This private instruction underscores the weight and importance Jesus placed on this truth.
* **"Whosoever shall put away his wife,"**: This clause identifies the initiator of the action: the husband. In the patriarchal society of Jesus' day, men held the power to unilaterally divorce their wives. Jesus directly addresses this common practice, setting the stage for His radical reinterpretation of its consequences. The act of "putting away" refers to the formal, legal act of divorce.
* **"and marry another,"**: This part describes the subsequent action of the divorced husband. It refers to entering into a new marital union with a different woman. Jesus' teaching here is not merely about the act of divorce itself, but about the act of remarriage after a divorce that God does not recognize as valid.
* **"committeth adultery against her."**: This is the profound and shocking conclusion. Jesus declares that the act of remarrying, in this context, is not merely a legal transaction but a moral and spiritual offense—adultery. The crucial addition "against her" (εἰς αὐτήν, _eis autēn_) is highly significant. It shifts the focus from a general violation of God's law to a specific offense against the original wife, who is still considered bound to him in God's eyes. This phrase emphasizes the harm and injustice inflicted upon the dismissed wife and highlights her continued status as "his wife" in God's covenantal view.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several powerful literary and rhetorical devices in [Mark 10:11](/mark/10-11 "Mark 10:11 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce and Adultery"). The most prominent is **Absolute Declaration**, where Jesus uses unequivocal language to state a profound truth that challenges prevailing societal norms and legal interpretations. His statement is not a suggestion but a definitive pronouncement, emphasizing the gravity of the act. Furthermore, there is a significant **Reversal of Societal Norms**. In a culture where divorce was largely a male prerogative with little consideration for the wife's rights, Jesus' explicit declaration that the husband commits adultery "against her" fundamentally shifts the culpability and highlights the wife as the wronged party. This reorients the legalistic discussion towards a covenantal and ethical understanding, underscoring the divine design for marriage and the moral implications of its breach.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 10:11 stands as a cornerstone of Jesus' teaching on marriage, firmly rooting it in God's original creation design rather than human legalistic interpretations. Theologically, it underscores the sacredness of the marriage covenant as a reflection of the "one flesh" union ordained by God, meant to be indissoluble. Jesus' declaration that remarriage after an unbiblical divorce constitutes adultery highlights the ongoing validity of the original covenant in God's eyes, emphasizing His faithfulness and the seriousness with which He views broken vows. This teaching calls believers to a higher standard of commitment and fidelity, reflecting the covenantal faithfulness of God Himself.

* [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The One Flesh Union"): This foundational verse describes God's original intention for marriage, where a man and woman "become one flesh," a union Jesus directly references in [Mark 10:7-8](/mark/10-7-8 "Mark 10:7-8 - Jesus Quotes Genesis on Marriage") as the basis for His teaching.
* [Malachi 2:16](/malachi/2-16 "Malachi 2:16 - God Hates Divorce"): This Old Testament prophecy powerfully declares God's aversion to divorce, stating, "For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away." This pre-New Testament sentiment aligns perfectly with Jesus' strict teaching.
* [Matthew 19:9](/matthew/19-9 "Matthew 19:9 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce with Exception"): Matthew's parallel account includes the "exception clause" regarding _porneia_ (sexual immorality), which has been widely debated. While Mark's account is absolute, Matthew's provides a specific context where divorce and remarriage would not constitute adultery, indicating that Jesus' primary teaching in Mark emphasizes the ideal and general principle.
* [1 Corinthians 7:10-11](/1_corinthians/7-10-11 "1 Corinthians 7:10-11 - Paul's Instruction on Marriage"): The Apostle Paul reiterates Jesus' teaching, commanding that a wife should not depart from her husband, and if she does, she should remain unmarried or be reconciled. This further reinforces the New Testament's high view of marriage's permanence.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 10:11 challenges believers to embrace a profound understanding of marriage as a sacred covenant, not merely a social contract. It calls for unwavering commitment, reflecting the faithfulness of God Himself. For those contemplating marriage, it underscores the gravity of the vows taken before God, urging prayerful discernment and a lifelong dedication to the "one flesh" union. For those in marriage, it serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize reconciliation, forgiveness, and selfless love, striving to honor the covenant even amidst difficulties. While Jesus' words present a high ideal, the Gospel also offers immense grace and forgiveness for those who have fallen short of this standard. This verse compels us to seek God's wisdom in all marital matters, to uphold the dignity of all parties involved, and to trust in His restorative power.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' emphasis on the "one flesh" union in [Mark 10](/mark/10 "Mark 10 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce") shape your understanding of marital commitment?**
* **In what ways can couples actively cultivate a covenantal mindset in their marriage, reflecting God's faithfulness?**
* **Given the gravity of Jesus' words, how should the church balance the high ideal of marriage with compassion and grace for those impacted by divorce?**
* **How does the phrase "against her" challenge traditional views and encourage a more equitable and protective approach to marital relationships?**

### FAQ
**Does Mark 10:11 mean there is absolutely no biblical ground for divorce and remarriage?**

Answer: Mark 10:11 presents Jesus' strong, unqualified statement on the ideal and original intent for marriage as an indissoluble "one flesh" union. It emphasizes that a man divorcing his wife and remarrying another commits adultery against her, highlighting the permanence of the original bond in God's eyes. However, it is crucial to consider the parallel account in [Matthew 19:9](/matthew/19-9 "Matthew 19:9 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce with Exception"), where Jesus adds an "exception clause" for _porneia_ (sexual immorality, which can encompass a range of illicit sexual acts, including unfaithfulness). This suggests that while Jesus upholds the highest standard for marriage, there may be specific, grave circumstances (like unrepentant sexual immorality) where the covenant is so fundamentally broken by one party that divorce, and subsequent remarriage, would not be deemed adultery. The primary thrust of Mark's account, however, is to condemn casual or self-serving divorce and remarriage.

**What about situations involving abuse, abandonment, or other severe marital breakdowns?**

Answer: While Mark 10:11 focuses on the husband initiating divorce and remarriage, the broader biblical narrative and Christian theology recognize the complexity of human relationships and the reality of sin's impact. The Bible consistently condemns abuse and abandonment. The Apostle Paul, in [1 Corinthians 7:15](/1_corinthians/7-15 "1 Corinthians 7:15 - Abandonment by an Unbeliever"), provides an allowance for a believer to be free if an unbelieving spouse departs. While this does not explicitly permit remarriage, many theologians interpret it as allowing for freedom from the marital bond in such cases. In situations of severe abuse, the safety and well-being of the victim are paramount, and many pastoral approaches recognize that separation or divorce may be necessary, not as a violation of God's will, but as a tragic consequence of sin. The church's role is to offer compassionate care, support, and guidance, always pointing to God's grace and healing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 10:11, with its stark declaration on the permanence of marriage and the sin of unbiblical divorce, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus, as the divine Bridegroom, perfectly embodies the covenantal faithfulness that He calls His followers to uphold in marriage. His relationship with the Church, His bride, is one of unbreakable covenant, marked by His sacrificial love and unwavering commitment ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Just as God's covenant with Israel was meant to be eternal despite Israel's unfaithfulness, so too is the marriage covenant designed to reflect this divine steadfastness. When human marriages fall short of this ideal, it is the grace and forgiveness found in Christ that offer redemption and new beginnings. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus provides the means for repentance and reconciliation, even for those who have experienced the brokenness of divorce and remarriage. The Holy Spirit, given to believers, empowers them to live out the high calling of marital fidelity and covenant love, reflecting the very character of God and anticipating the ultimate, perfect union of Christ and His Church in the new heavens and new earth ([Revelation 19:7-9](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 5:31

It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:

Matthew 5:32

But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

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.

Luke 16:18

Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from [her] husband committeth adultery.

Romans 7:3

So then if, while [her] husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.

1 Corinthians 7:10

¶ And unto the married I command, [yet] not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from [her] husband:

1 Corinthians 7:11

But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to [her] husband: and let not the husband put away [his] wife.