THE MEANING OF PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL BONDS IN THE DEFINITION OF MARRIAGE

Abstract

Marriage is a social institution that serves not only as a legal bond between two individuals but also as an emotional and spiritual relationship underpinning harmony within family life. In the legal context of Indonesia, marriage is governed by Law No. 1 of 1974, which stipulates that marriage is a physical and emotional bond between a man and a woman, aimed at establishing a happy and prosperous family. The physical bond encompasses the legality, rights, and obligations regulating the lives of husband and wife, while the emotional bond reflects emotional closeness, mutual trust, and psychological support between partners. From a religious perspective, marriage is regarded as a sacred covenant to be preserved with fidelity and moral responsibility. In Islam, for example, marriage is referred to as mitsaqan ghalizhan, a firm covenant carrying profound spiritual consequences. Within Indonesian culture, marriage not only unites individuals but also integrates extended families, governed by customary values that shape household life. This study highlights the importance of balancing physical and emotional bonds in marriage to create a harmonious and enduring relationship. An imbalance between these two aspects may lead to dissatisfaction and conflict within the household. Psychological studies indicate that couples who maintain a balance between physical intimacy and emotional connection are better equipped to overcome challenges and sustain a more stable relationship.