Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, has been a subject of discussion throughout history and across cultures. In the Bible, God’s design for marriage is often seen as a union between one man and one woman, a principle that reflects His intention for deep, committed relationships. However, several verses in Scripture address the complexities of polygamy and provide insight into God’s true will for marriage.
While the Bible recounts stories of polygamous relationships, it’s crucial to understand the deeper spiritual and moral lessons these stories teach. The consequences of polygamy are highlighted in various narratives, showing the struggles and conflicts that arise when God’s original plan is deviated from.
In this post, we will explore key Bible verses that speak against polygamy, offering clarity on God’s design for marriage and relationships.
Top 23 Bible Verses Against Polygamy
1. Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
Genesis 2:24 is foundational to God’s design for marriage, emphasizing a monogamous union between one man and one woman. The phrase “they shall become one flesh” indicates the deep, exclusive relationship intended by God. Polygamy contradicts this principle by introducing multiple partners, creating division rather than unity.
This verse underscores the sanctity of the marriage bond, highlighting the emotional and spiritual oneness that is meant to exist between a husband and wife. God’s original intention was not for multiple marriages but for a singular, committed partnership to reflect His relationship with His people.
2. Deuteronomy 17:17
“And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold.”
Deuteronomy 17:17 provides a clear warning for Israel’s kings, urging them not to take many wives, as it could lead them astray from God. This verse speaks to the dangers of polygamy, as multiple wives could divert a man’s loyalty and devotion to God. The caution here reflects the negative spiritual consequences of such relationships.
The principle established here is not limited to kings but extends to all of God’s people. It highlights how polygamy can disrupt spiritual commitment, drawing individuals away from God’s commands and leading to moral and relational decay.
3. Matthew 19:4-6
“He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.'”
In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus reaffirms the original design for marriage from Genesis, emphasizing the union of one man and one woman. This verse clearly teaches that marriage is a sacred, exclusive relationship between two individuals. Polygamy contradicts this teaching by dividing the union and introducing multiple partners.
By focusing on the oneness of marriage, Jesus condemns any practice that undermines this sacred bond. His words reject polygamy as a violation of God’s purpose for marital unity and sanctity.
4. 1 Timothy 3:2
“Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”
1 Timothy 3:2 outlines the qualifications for church leaders, emphasizing that an overseer should be “the husband of one wife.” This directive suggests that monogamy is the standard for spiritual leadership. The use of “one wife” reinforces the idea that polygamy is not suitable for those in positions of authority in the church.
This verse reflects the expectation for all believers to uphold a monogamous relationship, particularly in leadership roles. It also serves as a reminder that God’s order for marriage is consistent, requiring commitment and exclusivity, which polygamy undermines.
5. Ephesians 5:31
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”
Ephesians 5:31 echoes Genesis 2:24, underscoring the union of one man and one woman as the ideal for marriage. The idea of becoming “one flesh” speaks to the unity and intimacy that marriage should reflect. Polygamy disrupts this unity, as multiple spouses dilute the deep, singular connection intended by God.
Paul’s repetition of this principle highlights the importance of monogamy in God’s design for marriage. The verse serves as a clear rejection of polygamy, reinforcing that God’s original plan for marriage is a lifelong, exclusive bond between two people.
6. Malachi 2:14-16
“But you say, ‘Why does he not?’ Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant. Did he not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union? And what was the one God seeking? Godly offspring. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth. For the man who does not love his wife but divorces her, says the Lord, the God of Israel, covers his garment with violence, says the Lord of hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.”
Malachi 2:14-16 condemns the practice of faithlessness in marriage, particularly divorcing the wife of one’s youth. The passage highlights God’s covenantal view of marriage, where He seeks godly offspring and fidelity between partners. Polygamy disrupts this covenant by introducing multiple partners, leading to faithlessness and broken relationships.
The emphasis here is on faithfulness and unity in marriage. God’s intention is for marriage to be an exclusive covenant between a husband and wife, not to be divided by polygamous practices that lead to instability and conflict.
7. 1 Corinthians 7:2
“But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.”
In 1 Corinthians 7:2, Paul advises believers to have a monogamous relationship to avoid the temptations of immorality. By encouraging each man to have his “own wife” and each woman her “own husband,” Paul stresses the importance of exclusive relationships. Polygamy, which involves multiple partners, is clearly not in line with this principle.
This verse reinforces the idea that marriage should be a unique and intimate bond between two people. Paul’s teaching upholds the sanctity of monogamy as the safeguard against temptation and sin.
8. Proverbs 5:18-19
“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, a lovely deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight; be intoxicated always in her love.”
Proverbs 5:18-19 calls husbands to rejoice in the love of their wife and remain captivated by her throughout their lives. The exclusive affection described here underscores the monogamous relationship God desires. Polygamy contradicts this, as it divides a husband’s love and attention between multiple wives, undermining the depth of intimacy intended in marriage.
These verses celebrate the beauty of a singular, committed relationship. The husband’s focus on his wife demonstrates God’s intention for love and devotion within marriage, which polygamy compromises.
9. 1 Peter 3:7
“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”
1 Peter 3:7 instructs husbands to treat their wives with honor and understanding, recognizing them as co-heirs of the grace of life. This verse promotes equality and mutual respect within marriage, which polygamy disrupts. Multiple marriages create divisions that hinder the deep, harmonious relationship God intended between a husband and wife.
By emphasizing respect and mutual honor, this verse upholds monogamy as the model for healthy, godly relationships. Polygamy undermines the full expression of these principles, leading to division and conflict rather than unity.
10. Genesis 4:19
“Lamech took two wives. The name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.”
Genesis 4:19 recounts the first instance of polygamy in Scripture, where Lamech takes two wives. While the Bible presents this fact, it does not endorse it. This early example of polygamy shows the beginning of a deviation from God’s original design, which is monogamous marriage.
Lamech’s action foreshadows the complications that arise from polygamous relationships, as later biblical narratives show the negative consequences. The fact that this practice is recorded without moral approval serves as a subtle condemnation of polygamy in the broader biblical context.
11. 1 Timothy 3:12
“Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well.”
1 Timothy 3:12 sets the standard for deacons in the church, emphasizing that they should be “the husband of one wife.” This qualification reinforces the biblical expectation of monogamy for those in leadership roles. By setting this standard, the verse implicitly condemns polygamy as inappropriate for those in positions of authority.
The clear requirement of a single wife highlights the importance of faithfulness and commitment in leadership. This principle extends to all believers, ensuring that polygamy does not corrupt the integrity of Christian leadership and relationships.
12. Matthew 5:27-28
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Matthew 5:27-28 teaches that adultery is not just about physical acts but also about the intentions of the heart. This warning against lust and infidelity is particularly relevant to polygamy, where the desire for multiple partners can easily lead to the objectification of individuals. Polygamy opens the door to relational violations that harm the sanctity of marriage.
Jesus’ words emphasize the purity and exclusivity that should characterize marriage. Polygamy, by introducing multiple partners, undermines the commitment and mutual respect that are essential in a monogamous relationship.
13. 2 Samuel 12:7-8
“Nathan said to David, ‘You are the man! Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you out of the hand of Saul. And I gave you your master’s house and your master’s wives into your arms, and gave you the house of Israel and of Judah. And if this were too little, I would add to you as much more.'”
2 Samuel 12:7-8 highlights God’s disapproval of David’s sin, which included taking another man’s wife. Although God granted David multiple wives, He makes it clear that additional wives would not have been necessary. The consequences of David’s polygamy are evident in the conflict and turmoil within his family, showing that God’s design is for a monogamous relationship.
This passage shows that even though God allowed polygamy in certain historical contexts, He did not endorse it as His ideal. The resulting pain and consequences for David emphasize that polygamy goes against God’s plan for marital unity and peace.
14. Proverbs 31:10-12
“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.”
Proverbs 31:10-12 describes the ideal wife, one who is trustworthy, valuable, and committed to her husband. The exclusivity and trust in this relationship reflect God’s design for monogamy. Polygamy complicates this trust and intimacy by dividing the husband’s attention and affection.
This passage reinforces the idea that a strong, healthy marriage is built on mutual trust and commitment, which is easier to maintain in a monogamous relationship. Polygamy disrupts the unity and strength of the marital bond, creating unnecessary conflict and division.
15. Romans 7:2-3
“For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies she is released from the law of marriage. Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, and if she marries another man, she is not an adulteress.”
Romans 7:2-3 outlines the marital law of exclusivity, emphasizing that a woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. This principle of marital fidelity is challenged by polygamy, which violates the exclusive nature of the marriage bond. Paul’s teaching highlights that marriage is a sacred and exclusive relationship, not to be divided.
The teachings here confirm that God’s design for marriage does not include multiple spouses. The exclusivity and unity in marriage reflect the oneness that God intended, making polygamy incompatible with the biblical model of marriage.
16. Hebrews 13:4
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
Hebrews 13:4 emphasizes the sanctity and honor of marriage, urging that the marriage bed be kept pure. Polygamy defiles this sanctity by introducing multiple sexual relationships, leading to immorality. God’s judgment is a consequence for any form of sexual immorality, including adultery or polygamy.
This verse underscores God’s expectation that marriage remain exclusive and pure. Polygamy undermines the integrity of the marriage bed, violating the sacredness of marital relationships as designed by God.
17. Luke 16:18
“Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.”
Luke 16:18 teaches that remarriage after divorce constitutes adultery, highlighting the sacredness of marriage and the commitment it requires. Polygamy, which involves multiple marriages, likewise undermines the integrity of the marital bond. It introduces division and infidelity into relationships, contrary to God’s design for marriage.
Jesus’ words reinforce the ideal of marital faithfulness, where one man and one woman remain committed to each other. Polygamy violates this sacred union, detracting from the purity and exclusivity that God desires for marriage.
18. Song of Solomon 6:8-9
“There are sixty queens and eighty concubines, and virgins without number. But my dove, my perfect one, is the only one, the only one of her mother, the favorite of the one who bore her. The daughters saw her and called her blessed; the queens and concubines also, and they praised her.”
Song of Solomon 6:8-9 describes a situation where the lover expresses deep affection for one woman, despite the presence of many others. This contrast highlights the uniqueness and singular beauty of the bride, symbolizing the exclusive love God desires in marriage. Polygamy, by introducing multiple partners, dilutes this deep, special connection.
This verse celebrates the value of exclusivity in a relationship. The singular love between the man and his bride contrasts with the division caused by polygamous practices, reinforcing God’s plan for one-man, one-woman unions.
19. 1 Samuel 1:2
“He had two wives. The name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.”
1 Samuel 1:2 introduces the polygamous relationship between Elkanah and his two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. The conflict and pain caused by this arrangement are evident in the text, as Peninnah’s ability to bear children creates strife between the wives. This illustrates the difficulties and tensions that arise from polygamous relationships.
The verse does not endorse polygamy but highlights the relational challenges it causes. The division, jealousy, and pain between the wives serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deviating from God’s monogamous design for marriage.
20. Luke 14:26
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
Luke 14:26 speaks about the total commitment required to follow Christ. While the verse does not directly address polygamy, it emphasizes the priority of singular devotion. The exclusivity of this commitment to Christ mirrors God’s design for exclusive relationships, highlighting the dangers of divided affections that polygamy introduces.
In marriage, just as in discipleship, God calls for complete devotion. Polygamy divides a person’s affections and commitment, ultimately hindering the full, undivided devotion that God requires.
21. 2 Samuel 5:13
“And David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, after he came from Hebron, and more sons and daughters were born to David.”
2 Samuel 5:13 highlights David’s continued practice of polygamy, taking more wives and concubines. This action, though recorded, is not presented as an ideal but rather a historical fact. David’s polygamous relationships resulted in familial strife, showing the negative consequences of deviating from God’s monogamous design.
The passage serves as a reminder of the turmoil caused by polygamy, contrasting it with God’s desire for unity and peace within the marriage covenant. David’s example highlights the spiritual and relational risks associated with polygamy.
22. 1 Kings 11:3
“He had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines. And his wives turned away his heart.”
1 Kings 11:3 describes King Solomon’s extensive polygamous relationships, which ultimately led him astray from God. Despite his wisdom, Solomon’s many wives caused his heart to turn toward idolatry. This verse demonstrates the dangers of polygamy, showing how it can weaken spiritual commitment and cause moral compromise.
Solomon’s life illustrates the destructive impact of polygamy, where divided affections lead to spiritual downfall. His story serves as a warning about the consequences of straying from God’s ideal for marriage.
23. Acts 20:28
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
Acts 20:28 calls church leaders to be vigilant and devoted to their responsibilities, emphasizing the purity and integrity required in their roles. While it does not directly address polygamy, this verse reinforces the importance of unity and commitment in leadership. Leaders are expected to model monogamy and faithfulness as an example to the flock.
The verse underscores the need for spiritual leaders to maintain integrity and devotion, qualities that polygamy undermines. Leaders are called to reflect the sanctity of the marriage covenant in their relationships, modeling God’s design for unity.
Conclusion
The Bible consistently upholds monogamy as God’s ideal for marriage, emphasizing the importance of unity, faithfulness, and commitment. While some biblical figures practiced polygamy, the Scriptures often highlight the negative consequences and relational strife that followed. God’s design for marriage is rooted in the exclusive bond between one man and one woman.
The teachings of Jesus and the Apostles reaffirm this principle, rejecting polygamy as inconsistent with God’s vision for relationships. Marriage, in its purest form, is meant to reflect God’s covenant with His people.
Ultimately, the Bible calls believers to embrace God’s plan for marriage, rooted in monogamy and fidelity.
