Understanding the Biblical Concept of 'Be Joined to' in Marriage

“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and will be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”

The Hebrew text for this verse differs slightly from the LXX, appearing again in Mark 10:7. Matthew 19:5 is similar but uses a different word for “joined.”

The Meaning and Origin of 'Be Joined to'

The Greek verb translated as “be joined to” is proskollaō. Thayer’s Lexicon defines this term as:

[Thayer’s Lexicon] states that this verb is only found in the passive voice in the New Testament context. The BDAG lexicon further elaborates, adding definitions such as “join, adhere to closely” and providing an example from Josephus where a warrior’s sword was described as “glued” to his hand by the blood of the slain.

The verbs proskollaō and kollaō, found in Mark 10:7 and Matthew 19:5 respectively, are related to the noun kolla, meaning “glue.” These verbs were used to depict joining oneself to someone or a close union, as well as the act of joining or being with other things and people, akin to the use of the term “glue” in English today—expressing an extreme attachment, such as “He stuck to his coach like glue” or “He is glued to the TV set.”

More Than Just Physical Union

The act of sexual intercourse is much deeper and more profound than we understand. What happens in the physical body is not fully comprehended, and what happens to a person physically is only part of what actually occurs on a person. The couple becomes “one flesh” and even “members of each other,” as described in 1 Corinthians 6:15. There is both a physical and spiritual union occurring. God refers to this as being joined or “glued” together (Matthew 19:5, Mark 10:7, Ephesians 5:31).

Thus, although the word “glued” is often used metaphorically for “joined with,” as in English, there is also a literal spiritual truth being expressed. When two things are glued together, a bond forms that cannot be broken without both pieces suffering some damage. God understands His original intent for the bonding produced by sexual intercourse and also understands the mental, emotional, and spiritual damage that can occur when that bond is broken, for which reason He commands that sexual intercourse should be reserved for couples who are married to each other.

The Adversary's Agenda

The Devil knows the importance of the act of sexual intercourse for love bonding and family life, and He knows the spiritual, mental, and even physical harm that can come from casual sexual intercourse. He has an aggressive agenda to cheapen sex, making it “just physical,” but it never is that. God intended sexual intercourse for the committed relationship of a marriage, and those who engage in sexual intimacy outside that relationship are sinning against God and themselves in ways that may not be fully understood.

Understanding the deep meaning and spiritual bond created by the covenant of marriage is crucial for recognizing the importance of fidelity and commitment in loving relationships. The bonding symbolized by this act is a powerful reflection of God's design for union and the profound impact it can have on individual lives and families.

In summary, the phrase “be joined to” in the Bible is more than just a physical union; it is a spiritual and intimate connection that symbolizes the commitment and loyalty God desires in marriage. It is a powerful reminder that the bond created by sexual intimacy should be protected and preserved within the framework of a committed and faithful marriage.