What does it mean that a husband and wife become one flesh?

The phrase 'one flesh' originates from Genesis 2:24, indicating that in marriage, a husband and wife participate in a profound union that transcends physical intimacy, encompassing emotional and spiritual dimensions. This unity reflects the transcendent nature of God's covenant with His people, where He draws them into an intimate relationship with Him. The concept also represents the intertwining of lives, purposes, and destinies, illustrating how a husband and wife are to function as a single entity in their shared lives, mirroring Christ's profound connection with the Church.