The belief that people are created to be one body in marriage is widespread among many religions. This idea comes from biblical verses like Genesis 2:24 which states, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." The word "cleave" means to adhere closely or firmly, and this metaphor suggests that married couples become one unit who share everything physically, spiritually, and emotionally. In the same way, some Christians believe that Christ and His church form an eternal bond, which cannot be broken. They quote Ephesians 5:31-32, saying, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery - but I am talking about Christ and the church." This passage shows how the union between husband and wife is similar to Jesus' relationship with His followers.
Another religious tradition that emphasizes unity and separation is Hinduism. According to Hindu philosophy, the soul is indivisible and can never be separated from its divine essence. Therefore, true love involves merging into the ultimate reality of Brahman. The Bhagavad Gita says, "When the embodied soul is purified by self-knowledge, he becomes free from all material contamination, and thus becomes fit to attain transcendental knowledge. He whose mind and intelligence are fixed in sameness realizes the Supreme Brahman through Samadhi." Samadhi means complete absorption or trance. This state is achieved when the ego dies, and there is no individuality left. It represents the highest form of yoga or union.
Buddhist teachings also stress the importance of nonduality, which refers to the belief that all things are connected as part of a larger whole. This idea comes from the concept of dependent origination, where everything arises from causes and conditions. In Buddhism, clinging to illusions of separateness creates suffering, so it is necessary to let go of attachments and see reality as it truly is.
The Heart Sutra states, "Form does not differ from emptiness; emptiness does not differ from form." The goal is to realize the interconnectedness of all things, including emotional relationships.
In Islam, marriage is seen as a sacred bond between two people who become one family. Muslims believe that this union is sanctioned by God and should be treated with respect and honor. They cite Surah al-Nisa verse 34, which says, "Marry those among you who are single and those who are fit amongst yourselves - male or female - they are best for you, provided you serve Allah faithfully." Marriage is considered a social contract that brings stability and happiness. Accordingly, Muslim men and women must practice chastity outside of wedlock.
These religious metaphors of unity and separation have influenced modern ideas about love, sex, and commitment.
Some Christians may feel guilty if they cheat on their spouse because they believe in the indivisible nature of marital union. Similarly, Hindus might view infidelity as a betrayal of their highest truth, while Buddhists could see it as detrimental to their nonduality. Muslims might avoid premarital sex out of fear of losing purity before marriage.
These beliefs shape our attitudes towards intimacy and exclusivity.
In what ways do religious metaphors of union and separation shape ideals of sexual exclusivity and emotional fusion?
Religious metaphors are often used to describe romantic relationships as a form of spiritual connection between two individuals. These metaphors emphasize the idea that love is sacred and that it should be exclusive and permanent. The belief in soulmates, for example, implies that there is only one perfect partner for each individual, making it difficult to let go of a relationship even when it has become unhealthy or abusive.