What does the Bible say about marriage and its purpose?

Marriage, as described in Genesis 2:18-25, is a divinely instituted covenant that emphasizes companionship, unity, and the fulfillment of God's creation purposes. God declared that it was not good for man to be alone and therefore created a suitable helpmate for Adam. This relationship reflects not only the union of husband and wife but serves as a picture of the relationship between Christ and His Church. The intimacy and mutual support that marriage provides enables both partners to grow in love and to glorify God through their union.