Mark 10:7 (KJV)

What does Mark 10:7 mean?

Mark 10:7 says that a man will leave his parents and become closely joined to his wife, marking the start of a new family unit. The verse highlights the importance and seriousness of the marriage relationship, showing it as a bond that takes priority over even the closest family ties.

In Mark 10, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, who are questioning him about divorce. Jesus refers back to the creation story to explain that marriage was designed by God to be a deep, lasting union. By quoting this line, Jesus emphasizes that marriage is not just a social contract but a foundational relationship intended to be strong and enduring.

The Greek behind Mark 10:7

• The word "cleave" is from προσκολλάω (proskollaō), which means to join closely or to glue together. This word paints a picture of a strong, inseparable bond, not just a casual connection.
• The word "leave" is from καταλείπω (kataleipō), meaning to leave behind or abandon. The Greek here carries the sense of a decisive action, showing that forming a new family involves a real shift in loyalty and commitment.
• The word "wife" is γυνή (gynē), which can mean woman or wife, but in this context clearly refers to the marital relationship.

Why Mark 10:7 matters

• Mark 10:7 clarifies that marriage is meant to be a new, primary relationship, not just an extension of a person's family of origin.
• The verse underscores Jesus' teaching that marriage is a God-designed union, which helps explain why he speaks so strongly against easy divorce in the surrounding verses.
• By quoting from Genesis, Jesus connects his teaching to the very beginning of the biblical story, showing that this principle about marriage has always been part of God's intention for humanity.