Marriage
Marriage is a form of interpersonal relationship; a kind of social contract. Most often, it takes the form of a union between a man and a woman, however, other forms, such as polygyny (one man and more than one woman), polyandry (one woman and more than one man), and group marriage (any number of men, any number of women) exist. In the Western world marriage as an institution between one man and one woman has been a cornerstone of community for many hundreds of years. Recently there has been a push by liberals for "same-sex marriage". A large portion of the reason for this push is because of the benefits married people gain in the United States, especially in regard to property rights. Same-sex marriage has no basis in scripture. In United States law, marriage is defined by each state and same-sex marriage is allowed only in Massachusetts. It might be worthwhile to note that interracial marriage was illegal in most states during the 19th century[1].
Bible
The Old Testament clearly allows polygyny. (Gen. 4:19, Gen. 16:1-4, Gen. 26:34, Gen. 32:32, Exodus 21:10, Dt. 21:15, Judges 8:30, I Sam 1:1-2, II Sam 12:7-8, I Kings 11:2-3, I Chron. 4:5, II Chron. 11:21, II Chron. 13:21, II Chron 24:3.) This is less common, but never outlawed, in the New Testament.
The Old Testament allows for the purchase of wives (Gen. 29:18, I Sam. 18:25-27).
Christianity
In most branches of Christianity, marriage is a life-long religious union between a man and a woman.
Mormonism
Historically, Mormonism has practiced polygyny. It stopped being a part of mainstream Mormonism in 1890, but some fringe groups still practice it.
Civil marriage
Civil marriage is a legal contract between two or more adults. It gives each member certain rights and obligations. Most commonly, these include power of attorney, inheritance rights, and rights in relation to any children they may have.
