Matthew 19:6

KJV

Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore {G5620} they are {G1526} no more {G3765} twain {G1417}, but {G235} one {G3391} flesh {G4561}. What {G3739} therefore {G3767} God {G2316} hath joined together {G4801}, let {G5563} not {G3361} man {G444} put asunder {G5563}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus they are no longer two, but one. So then, no one should split apart what God has joined together."

Berean Standard Bible

So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”

American Standard Version

So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 19:6 encapsulates Jesus' profound teaching on the sanctity and permanence of marriage, drawing directly from the creation account in Genesis. In response to questions about divorce, Jesus declares that the marital union transforms two individuals into an indivisible "one flesh," a bond divinely instituted and therefore beyond human dissolution. This verse serves as a foundational statement on God's original design for marriage, emphasizing its sacred covenantal nature and intended lifelong commitment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 19:6 is central to Jesus' discourse on marriage and divorce, initiated by the Pharisees' provocative question in [Matthew 19:3](/matthew/19-3 "Matthew 19:3 - Pharisees Question Jesus on Divorce") regarding the legality of divorce. Jesus immediately shifts the discussion from legal permissibility to divine institution, referencing [Genesis 1:27](/genesis/1-27 "Genesis 1:27 - Creation of Man and Woman") and [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The One Flesh Union"). This response directly challenges the prevailing interpretations of [Deuteronomy 24:1](/deuteronomy/24-1 "Deuteronomy 24:1 - Law Concerning Divorce") among Jewish schools (Hillel vs. Shammai), which permitted divorce for various reasons. The subsequent verses in [Matthew 19:7-9](/matthew/19-7-9 "Matthew 19:7-9 - Jesus' Teaching on Divorce") elaborate on the "exception clause" concerning sexual immorality, while the broader chapter also touches on celibacy for the sake of the kingdom, providing a comprehensive view of discipleship in relation to marriage.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Jewish society, marriage was a foundational institution, primarily arranged and viewed as essential for procreation and the continuation of family lineage. Divorce was a male prerogative, with varying interpretations of Mosaic law. The School of Hillel allowed divorce for almost any reason, while the stricter School of Shammai limited it to serious moral offenses. Women had limited rights and were particularly vulnerable in cases of divorce, often facing destitution. Jesus' teaching, by emphasizing the divine origin and permanence of marriage, elevated the status of the marital bond and offered a radical counter-cultural perspective that challenged the ease with which men could discard their wives, thereby offering a measure of protection for women.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several key themes found throughout Matthew's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the **divine institution of marriage**, portraying it not merely as a human contract but as a sacred covenant established by God Himself, as seen in [Genesis 2](/genesis/2 "Genesis 2 - The Creation of Woman and Marriage"). The concept of **unity in marriage** is paramount, emphasizing that two distinct individuals become an inseparable "one flesh," reflecting a holistic joining of lives, purposes, and destinies. Furthermore, the verse highlights the **permanence of the marital bond**, strongly prohibiting human interference with what God has consecrated. This theme resonates with God's own faithfulness and covenant keeping, foundational to understanding His relationship with His people, as exemplified in passages like [Hosea 2:19-20](/hosea/2-19-20 "Hosea 2:19-20 - God's Covenant with Israel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **one flesh (Greek, _mía sárx_):** The phrase "one flesh" combines G3391 (_mía_), meaning "one" or "first," and G4561 (_sárx_), which denotes "flesh" but extends beyond mere physical substance to encompass the whole human being, including human nature, kinship, and even the body as opposed to the spirit. In this context, it signifies a profound, holistic unity between husband and wife—physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational—mirroring the Hebrew _basar echad_ from [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The First Marriage"). It implies an inseparable bond, a new entity formed from two.
* **joined together (Greek, _syzeúgnymi_):** G4801 (_syzeúgnymi_) is derived from _syn_ (with) and the base of _zeúgos_ (a yoke). It literally means "to yoke together" or "to join together," particularly in the context of marriage. This word emphasizes the active role of God in uniting the man and woman, suggesting that the marital bond is not merely a human agreement but a divine act of covenanting. The imagery of a "yoke" implies a shared burden, mutual cooperation, and an unbreakable bond, much like two oxen yoked together for a common task.
* **put asunder (Greek, _chōrízō_):** G5563 (_chōrízō_) means "to place room between," "to part," "to separate," or "to divide." In the context of marriage, it directly refers to divorce or the dissolution of the marital bond. Jesus' use of this term, coupled with the strong negation "let not man," underscores the divine prohibition against human actions that would break the sacred union that God Himself has established. It highlights the intended permanence and indissolubility of the "one flesh" union.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh."**: This clause serves as Jesus' interpretive summary of the creation account, particularly [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The Man and Woman Become One Flesh"). It asserts a fundamental ontological change that occurs in marriage: two distinct individuals (twain) cease to exist as separate entities in the eyes of God, becoming a singular, unified being ("one flesh"). This unity encompasses every aspect of their lives—physical intimacy, emotional connection, shared purpose, and spiritual bond—creating an entirely new relational reality.
* **"What therefore God hath joined together,"**: This segment explicitly attributes the initiation and establishment of the marital bond to God. The phrase "God hath joined together" (from _syzeúgnymi_) emphasizes divine agency and authority. It elevates marriage from a mere social contract or human arrangement to a sacred institution, a covenant ordained and consecrated by the Creator Himself. This divine act imbues the union with a sanctity and permanence that transcends human laws or desires.
* **"let not man put asunder."**: This is a direct, imperative prohibition. Following the declaration of God's active role in joining, Jesus issues a strong command against human interference. The phrase "let not man put asunder" (from _chōrízō_) means that no human being, no human institution, no legal decree, and no personal will should separate or dissolve the union that God has consecrated. This underscores the intended indissolubility of marriage, presenting it as a lifelong commitment reflective of God's own faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 19:6 employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Allusion**, as Jesus directly alludes to and quotes from [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The One Flesh Union"), grounding His teaching in the foundational creation narrative. This act of allusion lends divine authority and timeless relevance to His words. The verse also utilizes **Antithesis** and **Contrast** by juxtaposing "no more twain" (two separate entities) with "but one flesh" (a unified entity), and further contrasting "God hath joined together" with "let not man put asunder." This sharp contrast highlights the divine origin and permanence of marriage against any human attempt at dissolution. Furthermore, the strong prohibitive language, "let not man put asunder," functions as a **Divine Imperative**, conveying a non-negotiable command from God, emphasizing the sacredness and inviolability of the marital bond.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 19:6 is a cornerstone of biblical theology on marriage, establishing it as a sacred covenant, not merely a human contract. It reveals marriage as a divine institution, reflecting God's own relational nature and His design for human flourishing. The "one flesh" union signifies a profound, holistic unity—physical, emotional, spiritual, and purposeful—that mirrors the unbreakable bond God intends with His people. This verse underscores God's sovereignty over human relationships and His expectation that what He has consecrated should be honored and preserved. It challenges human tendencies towards self-interest and convenience, calling for a commitment that reflects God's own faithfulness and the high value He places on covenantal fidelity.

* [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "The Foundation of Marriage")
* [Mark 10:8-9](/mark/10-8-9 "Jesus' Teaching on Marriage and Divorce")
* [Ephesians 5:31-32](/ephesians/5-31-32 "The Mystery of Christ and the Church as Bride")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 19:6 calls believers to a profound understanding and commitment to the sacred institution of marriage. For those married, it is a powerful reminder of the deep, holistic unity God intends, challenging couples to continually strive for spiritual, emotional, and physical oneness, recognizing that their union is not just between two people but is divinely sanctioned. It encourages perseverance through difficulties, seeking God's grace and wisdom to uphold the covenantal bond. For singles, it offers a high and holy vision of marriage, shaping their prayers and expectations for future relationships. For all, it underscores the importance of honoring and supporting marriages within the community, understanding that strong, God-honoring marriages are foundational to healthy families and societies. In a world where marriage is often devalued or redefined, this verse stands as a timeless declaration of God's original, beautiful, and enduring design, inviting us to align our lives and values with His divine blueprint.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding marriage as "what God has joined together" impact your view of commitment and perseverance within a marital relationship?**
* **In what practical ways can married couples strive to embody the "one flesh" unity in their daily lives, beyond just physical intimacy?**
* **How can the church community better support and strengthen marriages, reflecting the sanctity and permanence taught in this verse?**
* **What societal pressures or cultural norms challenge the biblical understanding of marriage presented in Matthew 19:6, and how might believers respond to them?**

### FAQ

**What does "one flesh" truly mean beyond physical intimacy?**

Answer: The concept of "one flesh" in [Matthew 19:6](/matthew/19-6 "Matthew 19:6 - The Indissolubility of Marriage") (and [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - The Creation of Woman and Marriage")) signifies a profound, holistic unity that extends far beyond mere physical intimacy. It encompasses a complete merging of lives, purposes, and destinies. This includes emotional unity (sharing feelings, thoughts, and dreams), spiritual unity (growing together in faith and pursuing God's will), intellectual unity (sharing ideas and perspectives), financial unity (managing resources together), and social unity (presenting a united front to the world). It implies a deep interdependency, mutual submission, and a shared identity where the well-being of one spouse is inextricably linked to the well-being of the other. It's a covenantal bond that transforms two individuals into a new, single entity in the eyes of God.

**Does this verse mean divorce is absolutely forbidden in all circumstances?**

Answer: While [Matthew 19:6](/matthew/19-6 "Matthew 19:6 - What God Has Joined Together") strongly emphasizes the permanence and indissolubility of marriage, Jesus' teaching on divorce is further nuanced in subsequent verses. In [Matthew 19:9](/matthew/19-9 "Matthew 19:9 - The Exception Clause for Divorce"), Jesus states, "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." This "exception clause" (often translated as "sexual immorality" or "unfaithfulness") suggests that while God's ideal is lifelong union, there are circumstances where the covenant has been fundamentally broken by one party, making divorce permissible, though not commanded. The Apostle Paul also addresses this in [1 Corinthians 7:15](/1_corinthians/7-15 "1 Corinthians 7:15 - Divorce in Cases of Abandonment"), where he permits a believer to separate from an unbelieving spouse who chooses to depart. These passages indicate that while divorce is contrary to God's original design and should be avoided, the Bible acknowledges that in a fallen world, there are specific, grievous circumstances where it may be a tragic necessity, particularly in cases of unrepentant sexual immorality or abandonment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 19:6, with its declaration of divine joining and human prohibition against separation, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as God joins a man and woman into "one flesh," Christ Himself is the ultimate "joiner," uniting humanity to God through His atoning sacrifice. He is the faithful Bridegroom, and the Church is His bride, a union described in [Ephesians 5:25-32](/ephesians/5-25-32 "Ephesians 5:25-32 - Christ and the Church as Bride and Groom") as a profound mystery mirroring the "one flesh" concept. Through Christ, believers are "joined to the Lord" and become "one spirit with him" ([1 Corinthians 6:17](/1_corinthians/6-17 "1 Corinthians 6:17 - Union with the Lord")). This spiritual union, forged by God's grace and sealed by the Holy Spirit, is an unbreakable bond that "man cannot put asunder." Neither tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, nor sword can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord ([Romans 8:35-39](/romans/8-35-39 "Romans 8:35-39 - Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love")). Thus, the permanence and sanctity of the marital covenant in [Matthew 19:6](/matthew/19-6 "Matthew 19:6 - The Indissolubility of Marriage") foreshadow the eternal, indissoluble covenant God establishes with His people through His Son, Jesus Christ, culminating in the ultimate marriage supper of the Lamb ([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

Mark 10:9

What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Hebrews 13:4

Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

Romans 7:2

For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to [her] husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of [her] husband.

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 7:14

For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.

Ephesians 5:28

So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

Malachi 2:14

Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet [is] she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.