What does "one flesh" mean?

The Scriptural Definition of Marriage

The scriptural definition of marriage serves as the basis of the one flesh remarks. In Genesis 2:24, it is written, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall be one flesh." This definition of marriage, as stated by Paul, is the foundation for understanding what "one flesh" means. It refers to the personal union of a man and woman at all levels of their lives.

The Unity of Substance

The phrase "one flesh" does not mean that a man and his wife become one person, but rather that they become one in the unity of their substance. They are considered as a single organism, with a shared body, soul, and spirit. This unity is not just physical, but also spiritual and emotional. It is a union that goes beyond mere physical intimacy, but encompasses all aspects of life. This understanding is echoed by Augustine, who said, "Oneness in body. When God created Eve and brought her to Adam, the word was clear: The two shall be one flesh."

The Sign of Spiritual Union

The concept of "one flesh" is also used to illustrate spiritual union. In Ephesians 5:28-32, Paul writes, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is a profound one, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church." The union of a man and woman in marriage is a reflection of the spiritual union between Christ and the church. The phrase "one flesh" points to the unity and oneness that exists between two people who are married, and also between Christ and his people. This understanding highlights the importance of marriage as a sacred institution, where two people come together to form a lifelong union that reflects the love and unity of Christ and his church.