In some translations, the text reads, “a man forsakes his father and mother”. In my opinion, “leaves” gives a gentle feel to the man leaving his parents, while “forsakes” suggests a stronger form of abandonment or a turning away from something he valued. In the time that this account was written, a man’s primary obligation was to his parents. The Bible clarifies that it was his duty to forsake his parents and transfer his loyalty and allegiance to his betrothed.
It was his duty to provide for, live with and care for his partner as he did for his parents.
The idea of a man who “clings to his wife” implies that a promise or contract is involved. The man must be completely committed to his partner. And lastly, “the two of them become one body” suggests the formation of a sexual relationship but also of the establishment of a family relationship. As Eve was created from Adam’s rib, they were already, in a sense, one body. As one body, the two become family with all the legalities, rights, and privileges accompanying
such a close union. The first readers of Genesis would understand this image as marriage.
God ordained marriage and its many blessings. This beautiful union was born out of the heart of a loving God who bestowed marriage as a sacred ordinance upon the creation He made and the people He loved. God created man in His image and likeness and knew the need for fellowship and love. God made the first companion and the helper of man. They were to live together and become one body. God sanctified marriage and blessed it.
