Marriage is a __________.

• A. Social contract
• B. Legal power
• C. Spiritual union
• D. Economic alliance

Answer: (C)

Marriage is a sacred spiritual union, a covenant before God that binds a man and a woman in lifelong commitment. The defining aspect here is the spiritual relationship—the vow before God, the mutual devotion, and the aim to grow in faith and holiness together. While marriages may involve social recognition, legal rights, and financial considerations, these are consequences or aspects of the relationship, not its essence. A social contract focuses on terms among people, a legal power on rights sanctioned by the state, and an economic alliance on finances. The spiritual bond described in marriage is what gives the relationship its deepest meaning, which is why this answer best fits a religious understanding of marriage.