Marriage and Divorce in Orthodox Christian Ethics: Thoughts from the Church Fathers

In our previous article, we examined that marriage is a lifelong commitment, reflecting the union between Christ and His Church, and divorce should be considered in case of sexual immorality. The Church Fathers, prominent early Christian theologians, have extensively written on the nature and importance of marriage.

• St. John Chrysostom (347-407 AD): Emphasized the mutual love, respect, and forgiveness that should characterize a Christian marriage. He also stressed the importance of procreation and raising children in the Christian faith.

• St. Basil the Great (329-379 AD): Advocated for a harmonious and peaceful marriage, emphasizing the role of each spouse in contributing to the well-being of the other. He also addressed the challenges of marriage and encouraged couples to seek reconciliation in times of conflict.

• St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD): Emphasized the unity and indissolubility of marriage, aligning with Christ's teachings. He believed that marriage should be a reflection of the divine union between God and humanity.

• St. Jerome (347-420 AD): St. Jerome, a prolific biblical scholar and ascetic, strongly upheld the indissolubility of marriage, emphasizing its sacred nature and the lifelong commitment it entails. He believed that divorce should only be considered in the most extreme cases, such as adultery or endangerment of life. He also emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation within marriage.

• St. Jerome also addressed the challenging realities of marriage and the potential for conflict. He encouraged couples to strive for mutual love, respect, and understanding, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in overcoming marital difficulties. He believed that true Christian love is patient, forgiving, and willing to persevere through trials and challenges.

• St. Jerome's teachings on marriage and divorce provide valuable insights into the Orthodox Christian understanding of these complex issues. His emphasis on the sanctity of marriage, the exception for sexual immorality, and the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation continue to shape the Church's approach to these matters.

Conclusion

Marriage and divorce are complex issues that require careful consideration and pastoral guidance. The Orthodox Church's approach, rooted in the teachings of the Church Fathers and the Holy Scriptures, aims to promote a sacramental understanding of marriage while acknowledging the realities of human struggles.