While studying theology, I learned how Jesus dedicated his life on earth to serving God and
spreading his word. I often heard people debating about Jesus’ social life. Some asked, “did
Jesus have a wife?”
In this article, I will discuss Jesus’ social life. Join me as we look at whether Jesus had a wife or
not. You will also learn whether Mary Magdalene was his wife. Read on!
Does the Bible mention Jesus’ wife?
In the Bible’s teachings, there is no mention of Jesus’ wife. It is an important issue; therefore, it is dismissible to conclude that the scripture writers would miss a critical detail. Jesus’s brothers and sisters are mentioned severally in the Bible (Mark 6:3). His mother and earthly Father are also mentioned, but there is nothing about His Wife.
Many asking seek to establish, and others want to support their belief on whether Christians are right to marry. Recently, there have been speculations from Karen King, a Harvard scholar who holds Papyrus writing that dates back to the fourth century that imposes that Jesus had a wife. It is yet to be proven as factual as controversies surround the evidence.
There are pieces of evidence in the scriptures that can support his life of singleness. And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” Luke 9:58. According to scriptures, He led as an example by living genuine life in spreading the Word. Jesus taught about being unmarried. He guides his followers on how to live a life free of anxieties, as amplified by the Apostle Paul, “So that he who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do better.” 1 Corinthians 7: 37.
Was Jesus married to Mary Magdalene in the New Testament?
Writers of the Bible mention Mary Magdalene in the New Testament on different occasions. In one scene, she is present at Jesus’ crucifixion. On another, she witnesses his burial and resurrection. With several appearances during monumental events of Jesus’ stewardship, it makes sense why people would debate their relationship.
Despite these, there is no mention in the scripture that highlights Mary Magdalene as the wife to Jesus. Most are links related to Jesus’ work. They mention her as one of the twelve healed of evil spirits and infirmities. Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out. Luke 8:2. Some scriptures highlight Mary as one of the apostles, while others diminish Mary’s role as a sinful woman.
Do Bible Scholars believe that Jesus had a wife?
Scholars have different opinions, but many believe that Jesus was unmarried, while few have come up with analogies that he had a wife. A team led by Simcha Jacobovici, an archaeologist, claimed that where they laid Jesus to rest was the burial area for his mother, Mary, and wife, Mary Magdalene.
While the recent discovery of papyrus by King, a scholar that documents Jesus saying, “my wife….” Another scholar, William Phipps, wrote a book dedicated to unraveling Jesus’ marital status. He thinks that he has a wife. His claims can be dismissed as part of his critique of the view of Christianity.
Despite the debate and the lack of substantial evidence of his marital status, he clearly did not have anything against marriage after attending the wedding at Cana of Galilee. Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, had nothing against marriage. He taught, “If anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed if his passions are strong, and it has to be, let him do as he wishes: allow them to marry- it is no sin. 1 Corinthians: 7:36.
Scholars who support Jesus leading a celibate life, such as Mark Noll, dismissed such ideas as from people who try to confuse Christianity. To others, whether he was married or not, it does not hold a significant impact. For one, the Catholic Church seems inclined to believe in Jesus’ singleness, which inspires the clergy who live in celibacy.
Whether Jesus was married or not, his work served a greater purpose. He devoted his life to the Word; therefore, refuting his service on claims of having a wife may not be substantial. In summary, the marital status of Jesus is still a hot topic among many, with a significant majority supporting His celibacy.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
