Marriage is more than a legal contract—it’s a sacred covenant designed by God. In a world where opinions about relationships vary widely, the Bible offers a clear and timeless view of marriage between a man and a woman.
It’s a union meant for love, support, spiritual growth, and the building of a family. Through both Old and New Testament scriptures, we see God’s vision for what marriage should be: loving, respectful, and built on faith.
In this post, we’ll look at 35 Bible verses that speak to this beautiful design. Whether you’re newly married, engaged, or simply reflecting on God’s purpose for relationships, these verses offer deep encouragement and guidance.
1. Genesis 2:24
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Explanation:
This foundational verse shows God’s original design for marriage—a man and a woman joined together in unity and commitment.
2. Matthew 19:4-6
He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female…”
Explanation:
Jesus reaffirms the creation of marriage between man and woman, emphasizing the bond as God’s plan from the start.
3. Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Explanation:
This verse calls men to love their wives sacrificially and faithfully, just as Christ loves the church.
4. Proverbs 18:22
He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.
Explanation:
Marriage is presented as a blessing. A godly wife is seen as a gift from God.
5. 1 Corinthians 7:2
But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.
Explanation:
Marriage is a protective boundary for intimacy, helping couples stay faithful and pure.
6. Colossians 3:18-19
Wives, submit to your husbands… Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
Explanation:
This verse encourages mutual respect, love, and balance in the relationship between husband and wife.
7. Hebrews 13:4
Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled.
Explanation:
Marriage should be respected and treated with purity and faithfulness.
8. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.
Explanation:
Marriage brings support, teamwork, and encouragement in life’s challenges.
9. Mark 10:9
What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.
Explanation:
Marriage is meant to be lifelong and sacred—what God brings together, no one should tear apart.
10. 1 Peter 3:7
Husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way… so that your prayers may not be hindered.
Explanation:
God calls husbands to treat their wives with kindness and respect, which also impacts their spiritual life.
11. Song of Solomon 8:7
Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it.
Explanation:
True love in marriage is deep, lasting, and unshakable even through trials.
12. Genesis 1:27-28
Male and female he created them. And God blessed them…
Explanation:
God created man and woman to be partners, blessing their union and calling them to multiply and care for the earth.
13. Malachi 2:14-15
She is your companion and your wife by covenant.
Explanation:
Marriage is not just emotional—it’s a covenant, a sacred promise made before God.
14. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast…
Explanation:
These qualities of love are essential in a healthy marriage. Love is the foundation that holds it together.
15. Matthew 5:32
But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife… makes her commit adultery.
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that marriage is to be taken seriously and not ended casually.
16. Proverbs 31:10
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
Explanation:
A godly wife is described as rare and valuable—someone to be deeply cherished.
17. Ephesians 5:31
A man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife.
Explanation:
Paul echoes Genesis, reminding believers of the spiritual and emotional bond between husband and wife.
18. 1 Corinthians 11:11-12
Neither is man independent of woman nor woman independent of man in the Lord.
Explanation:
Marriage reflects mutual dependence and partnership under God’s guidance.
19. Romans 12:10
Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Explanation:
Married couples are called to honor and love each other daily.
20. Song of Solomon 6:3
I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.
Explanation:
This verse captures the closeness and exclusive love shared in a godly marriage.
21. Titus 2:4-5
Train the young women to love their husbands and children…
Explanation:
Marriage and family life require intentional love and teaching, especially for the next generation.
22. 1 Timothy 5:14
I would have younger widows marry, bear children, manage their households…
Explanation:
Marriage is part of God’s design for building strong homes and stable families.
23. Proverbs 12:4
An excellent wife is the crown of her husband.
Explanation:
A good wife brings honor and strength to her husband’s life.
24. Ephesians 4:2-3
With all humility and gentleness… bearing with one another in love.
Explanation:
Marriage calls for patience, humility, and unity—especially in difficult times.
25. 1 Corinthians 7:3
The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband.
Explanation:
Mutual care and affection are important parts of a healthy marriage.
26. Song of Solomon 2:16
My beloved is mine, and I am his.
Explanation:
This expression of mutual belonging shows the joy of committed love between man and woman.
27. 1 Thessalonians 3:12
May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another…
Explanation:
Love should keep growing in marriage. Ask God to help deepen your connection over time.
28. Genesis 24:67
Then Isaac brought her into the tent… and she became his wife, and he loved her.
Explanation:
This early picture of marriage shows love, commitment, and the start of a shared life.
29. Ruth 1:16
Where you go I will go… your people shall be my people, and your God my God.
Explanation:
Though not a marriage vow, Ruth’s words show the kind of loyalty and love that strengthens any relationship.
30. Ecclesiastes 9:9
Enjoy life with the wife whom you love…
Explanation:
Marriage is not just duty—it’s meant to be enjoyed and cherished.
31. Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience…
Explanation:
These qualities are vital in marriage. Let the Holy Spirit shape your relationship.
32. Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you…
Explanation:
God’s plans for your marriage are good—full of hope and purpose.
33. Romans 15:5-6
May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in harmony…
Explanation:
God helps couples live in unity and peace through His strength.
34. James 1:19
Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.
Explanation:
These habits help maintain peace and understanding in marriage.
35. Psalm 127:1
Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Explanation:
God must be at the center of marriage. He’s the true foundation of a strong relationship.
Final Thoughts
These 35 scriptures show that marriage between a man and a woman is a sacred, intentional design from God. It’s built on love, respect, unity, and a shared faith. Whether you’re preparing for marriage, working through challenges, or celebrating years together, God’s Word offers direction and hope.
Take time to reflect on how these verses speak to your heart and your relationship. Which one stood out most to you? Share your favorite bible verse about marriage between man and woman or your personal story in the comments below.
Let’s encourage one another as we grow in godly love.