Top News

Husband-wife relationship: an essential bond

The relationship between husband and wife is like two wheels of a vehicle. If one wheel stops working, the vehicle cannot move forward, even if the other wheel is fine. For this reason, religious texts consider this relationship complementary to each other. The bond of husband and wife is not limited to living together or family responsibilities; Religious texts consider it the most sacred of all bondages. However, 90% of people understand love only as physical attraction or emotional connection, whereas in Sanatan tradition, the love between husband and wife is much deeper and lasting.

true definition of love

The true definition of love includes: accepting each other unconditionally, being each other’s support in difficult times, putting aside one’s ego and giving priority to the relationship, and understanding each other’s soul. Meanwhile, an important question arises: In reality, what should the love between husband and wife be like? The basic principle of this relationship is described in the scriptures and Vedas as follows:

*Janitriva Prati Haryasi Sunum Sam Twa Dadhami Prithivim Prithivya.
Ukha Kumbhi Vedyam Ma Vyathistha Yajnyadhairajyenaatishakta.* — Atharvaveda 12.3.23

It means: O men and women! Just as a mother loves her son, you too should love each other. I make you as big and stable as the earth. Just as the earthen pot placed on the altar of Yagya remains firm, in the same way you too should remain firm on your religion in the difficulties of life. This mantra presents an ideal for household life, in which love is not limited to physical attraction, but becomes pure, motherly affection.

Husband-wife relationship: a sacred duty

In Hinduism, marriage is not considered merely a social contract but is seen as a ‘grihastha ashram’. Under this arrangement, it is the sacred duty of the husband and wife to try to enrich and better the lives of each other. The marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati symbolizes the fact that husband and wife complement each other.

According to religious texts, true love is one that is devoid of selfishness, and has a spirit of dedication and sacrifice. The life of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita is an excellent example of this ideal. Trust, mutual respect and adherence to religion were of top priority in their relationship.

Respect and Trust: Pillars of Love

According to religious principles, love happens only where respect and trust prevail. Therefore, true love is not characterized by the mere presence of emotions, but by understanding and respecting each other’s feelings.