~ A place to find answers to gnawing spiritual questions ~
Question: I would like to know what does it truly mean to cleave? We are trying to get the full meaning, to effectively establish this between husband and wife. Thank you and may God continue to bless and guide your every word and step.Answer:
If I understand your question correctly, you are asking me about the verse found in Genesis 2:24 which states: "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh".
This is a wonderful and concise verse which deals with the institution of marriage. If this command would be followed by all who get married, there would be virtually no divorces in the world. But the problem with marital troubles lies in man's fallen and selfish nature.
To better understand the concept and principle of 'cleaving', one commentator wrote: "These two shall be one flesh, shall be considered as one body, having no separate or independent rights, privileges, cares, concerns, etc., each being equally interested in all things that concern the marriage state." Another writer wrote: "Marriage, according to the will of God, is a union for life of one man with one woman, and with one only; and the fact that it is a divine institution, shows that men should enter into it for the glory of God in the promotion of their own happiness and usefulness."
Time and space do not permit me to go into great detail about this word cleave and its entire meaning. I would like to suggest however a great book on the subject of Christian marriage, entitled "Love for a Life Time" by James Dobson.
I trust this has helped you and your marriage.
