by Vincent Saucedo

Created on: April 24, 2008

This is a valid question. If a person wishes to be married to multiple people at the same time, is it not their prerogative to do so? Is it up to the Federal or State government to decide and then allow or prevent this? Shouldn't individuals be free to decide for themselves? The issue of polygamy and its legalization carry with it a host of other questions and issues, of which go far beyond simply polygamy.

At the very core of this debate stands the institute of marriage, and what it means in America today. The definition of marriage continues to be a hot topic at this time in our culture. As the debate goes on, who's to say what it is? Certainly views on marriage differ between individuals, communities and states or there would be no discussion. But certainly as a society, we hold on to the institution of marriage with sanctity and value. And not just now, but in our country's history as well. It has been commonly understood and acknowledged that marriage is only between one man and one woman.

One's view on this issue of polygamy is foremost determined undoubtedly, by one's view of marriage and its definition. Certainly we all have presuppositions. We bring them along with us in every discussion, decision we make or position we take. I am no different, nor are you. Because I presuppose that God instituted marriage, this has a direct effect on my opinion of whether or not polygamy or plural marriage should be legalized.

In order to formulate a concise answer to this question we must first begin where marriage did. With God. Marriage was God's first earthy institution. Before there was a government, and long before the church, He ordained marriage and the family as the basic building block of society. God defines marriage in his Word. In Genesis chapter two God determines that "it is not good for man to be alone", and "for this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife, and they shall become one flesh". It's interesting that the end result should be oneness, between one man and one woman.

Now, I understand the notion that marriage begins with God therefore we must begin with his intent of it, in order to come to a right or wrong answer to the question, will probably not be very popular. But if we do not begin with God, then can there really be a right or wrong answer? If yes, based on what? Based on the relative morals of the individual? Of the Culture, at any given time?

Certainly this issue boils down to our presuppositions on marriage.

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