Divorce in the Scripture

Divorce – the word itself can only bring up negative feelings. It is a word that is abrasive and it is a word that speaks of finality. Nevertheless, in our society, divorce has now become an unfortunate, and average, conclusion to many a marriage that began with dreams of happiness and never-ending love. Even among self-professed Christians, divorce has become the normal ending to those who had once joyfully said, “I do.”

What have we been taught concerning this topic of divorce? From our culture…from our pulpits? Better yet, what should we have been taught? Harold W. Rosin, who suffered from a divorce of his own, has taken the Word of God and has investigated this misunderstood topic for himself. Within his investigation, he surveys passages within the Scriptures to better understand God’s view of divorce overall. The culmination of this study is Yeshua’s words in Matt. 19:9 which state: “And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” (ESV)

Rosin’s honest look at the biblical text as a whole brings a conclusion that will challenge the standard interpretation of this passage. What is central to this argument is the covenant relationship itself and what constitutes the breaking of this covenant. Rosin’s investigation of this topic is very needed for those within the Church and the Torah community alike.