What Is the Purpose of Marriage in Religion?
Learn why Christians and Muslims value marriage, including commitment, companionship and family life, with a clear GCSE Religious Studies exam tip.
The purpose of marriage in religion is often to form a committed relationship in which two people love and support one another, share family life and, if they choose, raise children. Religions may also see marriage as the right setting for sexual intimacy. The reasons people give depend on their religion and how they interpret its teachings.
Christian Views
Many Christians see marriage as a lifelong commitment made before God. They believe spouses should be faithful, care for each other and face difficulties together. The Bible describes a husband and wife becoming “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24), which Christians may understand as a close, lasting union. Many also value marriage as a stable setting for bringing up children. Some Christian denominations call marriage a sacrament, while others do not.
Muslim Views
In Islam, marriage, called nikah, is a contract that establishes rights and responsibilities between spouses. Muslims may see its purposes as companionship, mutual care, a permitted setting for sexual intimacy and a secure family life. The Qur’an describes affection and mercy between spouses (Qur’an 30:21), showing that marriage is about more than having children.
Exam Tip
If a question asks about the purpose of marriage, explain why believers value it rather than only describing a wedding ceremony. You could write: “Many Christians value marriage because they see it as a faithful, lifelong union before God. Genesis describes spouses becoming ‘one flesh’, supporting the idea of a close commitment.”
Do not claim that every religious person marries to have children, or that all Christians and Muslims understand marriage in exactly the same way. Companionship and commitment are important purposes too.
