Marriage is a sacred pledge between man and wife. The text of the wedding ceremony blesses the new couple that their union bring in its wake: “…happiness, joyous song, pleasure, love and brotherhood, peace, and companionship.”

Judaism does not ignore human nature, Man's failings and his shortcomings. In the Torah we find passages that praise a husband's fidelity to the wife of his youth. Likewise, the Scripture lauds the tenderness and refinement of marriage. As an integral facet of human life, marriage is a synthesis of man's physical being, his intellect, and his spirit. Judaism does not censure the physical basis of marriage, but it does encourage Man to imbue it with gentleness and refinement.

Obviously, some marriages end in failure. Some couples decide on matrimony purely on the basis of what they see, not what they think or know. Drawn to each other only by physical attraction, they delude themselves into thinking that they sincerely love each other..At a later stage, their initial intoxication passes, and they realize their mistake.

The choice of a mate must involve both the intellect and the heart. Anyone who entertains marriage must be aware of the involvement of both factors. The blending of the two facets of Man make for a balanced approach, which ensures the marriage will be blessed.

Both bride and groom must realize that problems do arise in marriage. Two partners, no matter how well matched, will at times differ in their opinions, their tastes, and their points of view. Their character traits are not the same, nor was their schooling. Consequently, they must aspire to justice within the family circle. A home which is dominated by one spouse, without consideration for the other, might at first glance, create the impression of efficiency. In actual fact, this will inevitably lead to misery. An individual who takes into account only his personal preferences and needs is depriving himself of the joy which reigns in a home where there is cooperation. A successful family is the highest expression of Man's freedom.

Marriage is an opportunity for both husband and wife to grow in the right direction. It demands that husband and wife be talented and clever, it is an art that cultivates within ourselves the G-dly image of  with which we were all created. When we are successful, we are assured of continual renewal which will bring forth rich fruits in the generation to come.