Matthew 19:6 (KJV)

What does Matthew 19:6 mean?

Matthew 19:6 teaches that when two people marry, they are no longer two separate individuals but have become united as one. Because God is the one who joins them together, people should not try to separate what God has joined.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, who are questioning Him about divorce. Jesus points back to the creation story, emphasizing that marriage is a union created by God Himself. The verse highlights the seriousness and permanence of marriage, showing that it is not just a human agreement but a bond established by God.

The Greek behind Matthew 19:6

• σάρξ (sarx): This word means "flesh." In the phrase "one flesh," it points to a deep, whole-person unity, not just physical but also relational and spiritual.
• συνέζευξεν (synezeuxen): This verb, translated as "joined together," carries the sense of being yoked or bound together by God, emphasizing that marriage is God's doing, not just a human arrangement.
• χωριζέτω (chorizeto): This word, translated as "put asunder" or "separate," is a strong term for dividing or splitting apart, underscoring the warning that no human should break apart what God has united.

Why Matthew 19:6 matters

• Matthew 19:6 clarifies that marriage is not just a social contract but a union established by God, which gives it a unique weight and seriousness.
• The verse addresses a common misunderstanding in Jesus’ time (and today) about the ease of divorce, reminding listeners that God’s intention for marriage is lasting unity.
• This teaching connects to the wider passage where Jesus is correcting the Pharisees' interpretation of the law, calling people back to God’s original design for marriage.