Respecting the sanctity of marriage

RECENTLY, ONE of the world’s most famous political commentators hosted a podcast episode that caught my attention. Tucker Carlson, whose YouTube show is one of the most listened-to news and political programmes, hosted comedian Ari Shafir as a guest. During their hour-long conversation, they dedicated a portion to discussing the Seven Noahide Laws. Tucker, with whom I disagree on many issues, shared that the laws are “very reasonable” and seem like a natural approach to morality.

One of the 7 Noahide Laws involves G‑d’s vision for relationships – specifically, respecting the sanctity of marriage. In a world where relationships and marriage are central to personal fulfillment, people are asking more questions and have more concerns than ever. Endless advice has been offered on how to maintain healthy relationships, and an entire industry of counsellors and experts has grown to support this critical area of life.

But what I’ve noticed is that relationships are most frequently viewed through the lens of personal fulfillment. People want to find someone who “makes them happy” or “meets their needs”. While this is understandable, it misses an essential aspect of relationships – selflessness. Focusing not just on what we receive but also on what we give is what leads to deeper, more meaningful connections.

Jewish tradition teaches that relationships are not just about fulfilling individual desires but are meant to serve a higher purpose. Every relationship has three partners: man, woman, and G‑d. When we view relationships this way, we transform them from something ordinary into something sacred. By respecting the sanctity of marriage, we invite G‑d into our lives, elevating the relationship beyond just two people into a partnership that has the power to bring holiness into the world.

The Seven Noahide Laws remind us to honour this sanctity. Marriage isn’t just about exclusivity for the sake of limitation; it’s about creating a unique and holy bond between two people. This exclusive commitment doesn’t diminish joy – it enhances it. When two people choose to dedicate themselves only to each other, they are building a foundation for love, trust, and shared purpose that can withstand the challenges life throws their way.

This message is also profoundly relevant for children. Numerous studies show that children raised in stable two-parent households fare better in many areas – health, education, social outcomes – but beyond the statistics is a spiritual truth: Children thrive when they witness the strength and sanctity of their parents’ relationship. By building homes that reflect G‑d’s values, we create environments where love and kindness can flourish.

This time of year, as we approach Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, there is a special emphasis on renewal, reflection, and self-improvement. Rosh Hashanah is considered a day when G‑d reviews the past year and judges humanity, but it’s also a time of hope and new beginnings. It’s a moment for all of us, regardless of background or faith, to reflect on how we can improve our relationships and live with greater purpose.

In the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, called Elul, Jewish tradition teaches that “the King is in the field”. This metaphor means that G‑d is especially close to each of us, more accessible than usual, ready to listen to our concerns, and eager for us to renew our commitments to live better lives. During this time, we are encouraged to reconnect with G‑d, reflect on our values, and think about how we can bring more kindness, love, and integrity into our relationships.

The idea of renewal that we see in Rosh Hashanah parallels the renewal we should seek in our marriages and relationships. Just as we have the opportunity to start fresh with G‑d, we also have the chance to strengthen and renew our commitments to the people we love. The exclusivity and devotion that marriage requires mirror the bond between G‑d and humanity, one that asks for loyalty, dedication, and love.

This time of reflection is not limited to Jewish tradition. It’s an opportunity for anyone to take stock of their lives and relationships, to ask how they can bring more holiness, selflessness, and purpose into their interactions with others. By doing so, we align ourselves with the deeper vision of marriage as something sacred and lasting.

The Seven Noahide Laws offer a universal framework for living a life that reflects G‑d’s will, and honouring the sanctity of marriage is central to that mission. As we enter this season of reflection and renewal, let us all strive to strengthen our relationships, ensuring they are filled with the selflessness and sanctity that bring us closer to fulfilling our purpose in the world.

Rabbi Raskin is Jamaica’s only rabbi and co-directs Chabad of Jamaica with his wife, Chaya Mushka. Chabad is a one-stop for everything Jewish and a place dedicated to spreading acts of goodness and kindness to all humanity. For your comments and to receive a free ARK Charity Box (Acts of Routine Kindness), email: info@jewishjamaica.com.

Rosh Hashanah will be observed this year from Wednesday evening, October 2, through Friday evening, October 4. During this sacred time, the sounding of the shofar will mark the celebration and we will honour the memory of the victims who were tragically murdered in Israel since October.