The concept of One flesh in Christianity
One flesh is a biblical concept in Christianity that signifies the unity between husband and wife, indicating they become a single entity both physically and spiritually through marriage. This principle emphasizes the intimate bond and inseparability intended by God, reinforcing the idea that marriage unites a man and woman in a unified relationship, which opposes polygamy. Additionally, it illustrates the deep connection between Christ and the Church, emphasizing their unity and shared purpose.
Synonyms: United, Joined, One body, Indivisible, Inseparable, Union, Unity, Oneness, Marriage, Partnership
In Malay: Satu daging; In Swedish: Ett kött; In Spanish: Una sola carne; In Dutch: Eén vlees; In Finnish: Yksi liha; In German: Ein Fleisch; In French: Une seule chair
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'One flesh'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This is a phrase used to describe the intimate union between two entities, particularly between a man and his wife, or between God and the soul.[1] (2) A biblical concept indicating the unity and inseparability of a married couple.[2] (3) A biblical principle referring to the deep union between husband and wife, emphasizing monogamy.[3] (4) A phrase illustrating the intimate unity between Christ and the Church, suggesting they are a single entity rather than separate.[4] (5) A biblical concept that signifies the unity and bond formed between husband and wife in marriage, as taught by Jesus.[5]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) A biblical phrase indicating the unity of husband and wife as intended by God, signifying the intimate bond of marriage.[6] (2) The biblical concept that marriage joins a man and a woman in a unified bond, opposing polygamy.[7] (3) A biblical expression describing the union of husband and wife, indicating they become a single entity in marriage.[8]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) A reference to the Biblical concept that man and woman are united as one entity, both physically and spiritually.[9] (2) The biblical idea that through marriage two individuals become united both physically and spiritually, forming a single entity.[10]
From: The Complete Sayings of Jesus
(1) The state of becoming united in marriage, where two individuals are considered as one entity.[11]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) This phrase is used in the text to describe the effect of matrimony, signifying the union of two individuals into a single entity, a concept of marriage.[12] (2) The biblical concept of marriage where a husband and wife are considered as united in body and spirit.[13]
The concept of One flesh in local and regional sources
"One flesh" signifies the union of married couples, illustrating their deep connection and togetherness. This phrase emphasizes the bond formed through marriage, highlighting the idea that they become a single entity in their relationship.
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) One flesh is the state that married couples are said to be in, as in 'They twain shall be one flesh,' meaning they are united.[14]