New York! New York!

Volume 2, Issue 26- July 1-7, 2011

International Tribune

Once again, it is God’s word against society- or, at least, according to all religious institutions against same-sex marriage.  Same goes for divorce and stem cell research, the bible is misinterpreted in many ways by religious leaders who are in the habit of stomping social and cultural evolutions.  The landmark victory of allowing same-sex union just passed by the New York State has proven that with reason and consensus, there is a way to append the writings on the Holy Scriptures.  So what does the bible really argue against same-sex marriage?

In the Garden of Eden, there was Adam and Eve.  The most revered introductory bride and groom in the bible.  Adam and Eve’s relationship is one of the most defended stories during the time of human creation in which most religious leaders would interpret as a clear sign that marriage is only for men and women.  The truth is, there are no follow up writings about an exchange of rings, or wedding vows with a priest that married Adam and Eve before and/or after they were expelled forever from Paradise. 

And in Genesis, when Yahweh pulled Eve out of Adam’s rib, after the metamorphosis, Adam proclaimed their unity and said “this is the last bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh.”  The Jews immediately cried out that this is a solid proof that marriage is only meant to be an institution for men and women defended by the miracle of God.   Frankly, this sounds more like ‘mitosis’ to me, the process in cell division when nucleus divides.    

All the holy books, such as the bible, Torah and the Quran contain a collection of fascinating old stories.  For many centuries, until today, the texts in each scripture have been upheld as the pillars of morality that one must abide to in order to be a good human being living in a virtuous society.   So does the bible have any specific literal opposition against gay marriage?  In fact, there is none.  Even if one rereads each gospel, there is no clear text that explains that the union of a man and a man, or a woman and a woman is unholy. 

Historically, marriage is a social and secular institution.  Since its inception, marital union was a form of business arrangement between two families to unite their tribes or their kingdoms for mutual benefit.  It was the citizens that arranged this, together with their tribal leaders.  Cows, jewel, or land were exchanged.  They even held festive wedding celebrations.  Eventually, when the union did not work out, or at least, it ruined one kingdom over the other- society then gave birth to the concept of divorce. During the Roman Empire, there were many proofs that divorces were issued to purposely end not just the union of the couple, but the quarrels of their respective clans. 

It just gets better.  Overtime, the concept of marriage romantically evolved.  People started marrying because of their feelings for one another.  Contemporary marriages these days take place because of love and no longer a means to enlarge one’s realm or kingdom.  Then centuries passed once again, another concept with regards to marriage developed: the modern and preemptive strategy we call prenuptials.  There are many people who do not dispute this idea.  They even hire very expensive lawyers to draft their 'prenups'.  And these are people belonging to various religious groups- especially amongst wealthy Jews, Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, and etc…  See, this is very simple. We do not need to let religion interfere with the evolution of matrimony. 

So, let’s start spreading the news.  Because such religious fuzz should leave today.  Let us all be a part of it.  And follow New York.  If same-sex marriage can make it here, it can make it anywhere.