What constitutes marriage

[Hamilton]

What constitutes marriage in the eyes of God?

Must there be a ceremony (isn't that legalistic), and what is neccessary if there is? I couldn't find anything in Bible specifically addressing this, but I'm not that well versed in the OT.

Hamilton

[antitox]

It should be recognized by the society at large. The way we do it here in the U.S. is having it recognized by the state. This is important because the woman, or woman & child should not be deserted and left helpless without support. If there is not enough personal committment to proceed into a legal committment, then it is questionable whether the man intends to stick around. The way I see it, is if a man is not willing to be legal with his committment, then there's probably not enough committment there to constitute a real marriage.

[antsinmypants]

The OT talks of both "Taking a wife" and a wedding ceremony.

The betrothal and wedding ceremony are explained in scripture a few times, Song of Solomon dwell on the engagement/wedding, and there are also several pictures of it in the NT, as reflected from the OT.

Shalom,

-Ants