New Testament
Matthew 5:32
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But I tell you, anyone who divorces his wife — except for sexual immorality — causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
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But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
What Matthew 5:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce and its implications. He teaches that divorcing one's wife, except in cases of sexual immorality, leads to her committing adultery. This means that if a man divorces his wife without a valid reason, he is responsible for her potential infidelity. Additionally, if someone marries a divorced woman, they also commit adultery. This teaching emphasizes the seriousness of marriage and the commitment involved. Jesus highlights that marriage is intended to be a lifelong union, and breaking that bond without just cause can lead to moral consequences. The exception for sexual immorality indicates that there are situations where divorce may be permissible, but it should not be taken lightly. Overall, this verse calls for a deeper understanding of the sanctity of marriage and the responsibilities that come with it.
How to apply Matthew 5:32 to your life
This verse encourages individuals to take marriage seriously and to consider the weight of their commitments. It reminds us to seek reconciliation and healing in relationships rather than resorting to divorce. When faced with marital challenges, it is essential to communicate openly and seek guidance to navigate issues responsibly.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Matthew 5:32
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 5:32 say about divorce?
Matthew 5:32 teaches that divorcing one's wife, except for reasons of sexual immorality, leads to her committing adultery. It emphasizes that if a man divorces his wife without a valid reason, he bears responsibility for her potential infidelity. Additionally, marrying a divorced woman is also considered adultery. This verse underscores the seriousness of the marriage commitment.
Is divorce allowed according to Matthew 5:32?
According to Matthew 5:32, divorce is not generally permitted unless there is sexual immorality involved. Jesus highlights that marriage is meant to be a lifelong commitment, and divorce should not be taken lightly. The exception for sexual immorality indicates that there are circumstances where divorce may be justified, but it is essential to approach such situations with caution and moral consideration.
What are the implications of marrying a divorced woman?
Matthew 5:32 states that anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. This implies that the act of marrying someone who has been divorced, without considering the reasons for their divorce, is viewed as morally wrong. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the sanctity of marriage and the potential consequences of breaking that bond.
How can this verse guide my marriage decisions?
Matthew 5:32 serves as a reminder to take marriage seriously and to consider the weight of your commitments. It encourages individuals to seek reconciliation and healing in their relationships rather than resorting to divorce. When facing marital challenges, it is crucial to communicate openly with your partner and seek guidance to navigate issues responsibly, keeping in mind the moral implications of divorce.
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