Matthew 5:32 (KJV)

What does Matthew 5:32 mean?

Matthew 5:32 says that if a man divorces his wife for any reason other than sexual immorality, he causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery. Jesus is teaching that divorce, except in the case of unfaithfulness, leads to further wrongdoing in God’s eyes.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, addressing common practices and beliefs about marriage and divorce among the people of his time. He challenges the idea that divorce is easily permitted, stressing the seriousness of breaking the marriage bond. Jesus’ words highlight the deep commitment expected in marriage and the consequences of treating divorce lightly.

The Greek behind Matthew 5:32

• πορνείας (porneias): This word means "sexual immorality" or "fornication." Jesus singles out this as the only valid reason for divorce, making it clear that not all reasons are acceptable.
• μοιχεύω (moicheuō): This is the Greek word for "commit adultery." The verse uses it to describe what happens when someone divorces for reasons other than sexual immorality or marries a divorced woman, emphasizing the moral weight of these actions.
• ἀπολύσῃ (apolysē): This verb means "to put away" or "to divorce." The use of this word shows that Jesus is talking specifically about the act of sending away a spouse, not just separation or conflict.

Why Matthew 5:32 matters

• Matthew 5:32 clarifies that Jesus did not accept the common, lenient attitudes toward divorce in his day, insisting that marriage is meant to be a lasting commitment.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus calls his followers to a higher standard of righteousness, not just outward obedience to the law.
• This teaching helps readers understand the seriousness with which Jesus viewed marriage and the real-life consequences that come from breaking that covenant.