Mark 10:7

Context of Mark 10:7

The verse Mark 10:7 is part of Jesus' profound teaching on marriage and divorce, recorded in Mark chapter 10. The discussion begins when Pharisees challenge Jesus about the lawfulness of divorce (Mark 10:2). Instead of debating Moses' concession regarding divorce (Mark 10:4-5), Jesus directs them back to God's original design for marriage at creation. He quotes directly from Genesis 2:24, emphasizing the permanence and sanctity of the marital bond as intended by God from the very beginning. This verse, along with Mark 10:8, forms the cornerstone of His argument against easy divorce.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Institution of Marriage: This verse highlights that marriage is not merely a human social construct but a divinely ordained institution, established by God at creation. It underscores the sacredness and intentionality of the marital union.
• "Leaving and Cleaving": The phrase "leave his father and mother" signifies a necessary and significant shift in primary allegiance. Upon marriage, the new couple forms an independent household, establishing a new family unit that takes precedence over parental ties. To "cleave to his wife" denotes a deep, inseparable bond—a commitment to unity that is physical, emotional, and spiritual.
• Formation of a New Family Unit: Marriage creates a distinct and primary family unit. This new identity requires both partners to prioritize their spouse and the marital relationship above all other human relationships, including those with their parents.
• Permanence and Unity: By quoting Genesis, Jesus emphasizes the lifelong commitment inherent in God's design for marriage. The union is meant to be permanent, with two individuals becoming "one flesh," signifying profound unity and partnership.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "cleave" is a powerful translation of the Hebrew term dabaq (דָּבַק) found in the original Genesis 2:24 text. Dabaq means "to cling," "stick fast," "be joined together," or "be glued to." It conveys a sense of strong, unbreakable attachment and deep loyalty, suggesting a bond that is not easily severed. This goes beyond mere cohabitation or legal agreement, pointing to a profound, intimate, and exclusive relationship.

Practical Application

Mark 10:7 provides timeless principles for marriage today:

• Prioritizing the Spouse: It challenges married individuals to consciously prioritize their spouse and the marital relationship, ensuring it is the central human bond in their lives.
• Commitment and Loyalty: The concept of "cleaving" reinforces the idea of marriage as a lifelong, exclusive covenant, requiring unwavering commitment and loyalty to one another.
• Establishing a New Home: It encourages couples to establish their own distinct home and identity, fostering independence from their families of origin while building their unique marital partnership.
• Understanding God's Design: For those considering marriage or already married, this verse offers a profound understanding of the sacredness and intentionality behind God's original plan for this foundational human relationship. It calls for a return to Biblical principles for healthy and enduring unions.