Background Information
Interracial marriage is defined as a marriage between people who come from different races and ethnic backgrounds.This type of marriage has been practiced for centuries in many cultures,religious traditions and societies throughout the world.The Bible,an ancient book of stories,advice,rules and judgments,is full of references to interracial marriage.The Bible’s stance on interracial marriage involves Scripture passages that range from clear warnings to more open-ended reflections.
The Bible Implies That Interracial Marriage Is No Big Deal
The Bible does not explicitly state that interracial marriage is wrong or immoral. In fact, in the book of Ruth, a book in the Old Testament, Ruth, a Moabite woman, is welcomed into the family of the Israelites and marries Boaz. Boaz’s acceptance of Ruth’s marriage offer shows that interracial couples were not condemned by the Bible. Furthermore, in the New Testament, in the book of Acts, we read how the Holy Spirit was given to a group of people from different nations, including some from Ethiopia. This passage implies that God is loving and accepting of all races and ethnicities.
The Bible Warns Against Intermarriage
In the Old Testament, the book of Nehemiah warns that intermarriage between Israelites and non-Israelites will result in the non-Israelite partner turning away from their godly traditions. The bible also warns against intermarriage between Jews and Samaritans in places like Matt. 10:5. Furthermore, the Old Testament book of Ezra also condemns intermarriage between Israelites and non-Israelites.
God Instructs On Handling Interracial Marriage
While there are warnings about interracial marriage in the Bible, God also provides guidance on how to handle it. In the book of Numbers, God tells the Israelites that foreign women are to be treated respectfully and taken into their homes. Furthermore, in Deuteronomy, Moses instructs that those in interracial marriages must be circumcised into the faith of the Israelites.
God’s Nature Toward Interracial Marriage
The Bible ultimately reflects God’s nature, which is one of acceptance and love. In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul says that “in Christ there is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female.” This passage reflects the fact that God does not view people differently based on their race or ethnicity.
Considerations When Interpreting Scripture
When interpreting Scripture, it is important to take into account the context and the historical circumstances surrounding it. It is also important to consider their cultural and religious norms and practices in each era of history and how these may influence the Bible’s stance on any issue.
Historical Perspective
When the Bible was written, interracial marriage was a relatively new concept, being seen as suspicious and potentially sinful. In ancient times, interracial marriage was more often seen as a way of subjugating foreign peoples and cultures. Furthermore, many societies at that time practised slavery, which may have also influenced certain passages in the Bible.
Relevance Today
Today, many people view interracial marriage as a beautiful blending of different cultures, races, and religions. In the 21st century, interracial marriage is accepted by the majority of societies, and is even encouraged in most communities. As such, religion and the Bible have adapted to this new view and generally look with favor upon interracial marriage.
Conclusion
While there are some passages in the Bible that are clear warnings against interracial marriage, others appear to be more open-minded. The Bible’s stance on interracial marriage is ultimately not clear-cut, and requires interpretation and understanding of its context. What is clear, however, is that today interracial marriage is widely accepted and even encouraged, and believes in the importance of love and acceptance of others regardless of race or culture.
