The201 - marriage -

Terminological problems.

We have children conceived out of wedlock, and out of coitus (in vitro fertilisation).

Matrimonial covenant. Far richer word, covenant, than contract. It evokes something of the deeply personal nature of what marriage is. By which a man and a woman establish between themselves, two primary goods. It's important that there be baptism remember before it is a sacramental.

As a legal institution marriage has a historical and social basis in the protection of property rights. A wife was perceived as a piece of property. The main reason of marriage was to have male heirs. A man's right to sexual activity outside of marriage was connected to his interest in acquiring sons via concubines and slave women. These unjust and sinful practices crept into culture. Marriage also was used for security and to safeguard public morals. The commitment of fidelity and a certain security of the good of children as they are brought into a stable environment.

Marriage has historically represented a woman's best way to reach economic security for her and her children. It has also provided an orderly was of keeping the human race going and provided a very orderly way to satisfy the sexual drive.