Jesus' condemnation of divorce is shocking. His disciples questioned Him about this and so should we (Mk 10:10). Jesus said, "Whoever divorces his wife (lewd conduct is a separate case) and marries another commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery" (Mt 19:9). "Lewd conduct" is often interpreted to mean adultery. However, this is probably not the meaning of the passage. A study of the Greek word for "lewd conduct" and of parallel and related passages shows that "lewd conduct" probably means an incestuous union, not uncommon among pagans.

Paul mentioned another occasion, after a divorce is initiated by the unbelieving spouse, when divorce and remarriage is allowed (1 Cor 7:15). Paul also stressed that the believing spouse should do all in his or her power to preserve the marriage (1 Cor 7:16). Although these are two exceptions, Jesus hates divorce (Mal 2:16). However, remarriage without being granted an annulment by the Church is more of a problem than divorce. Jesus loves the divorced and will heal, save, and love them.

No matter what your situation, turn to Jesus. He is "close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit He saves" (Ps 34:19).

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 23, 2007

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.