THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Do you perceive the numerous connections of affection that God has orchestrated? Within these connections lie the inherent assurances of harmony. Indeed, the unity of nature contributes to this, for "every animal loves the like of itself" (Sir. 13:19)—the wife arising from her husband and children from both parents. As such, there are various forms of love: we cherish one as a father, another as a grandfather, one as a mother, another as a nurse; we love as a son, grandson, or great-grandson; as a daughter, or granddaughter; as a brother; as a nephew; as a sister; or as a niece. But why should we attempt to categorize all forms of kinship?
Read more (163 words)
God has provided another basis for love: through the prohibition of marriages among relatives, He has directed us toward strangers, fostering proximity through these relationships. As they are not linked to us by natural bonds, He has knit us together in another manner—through marriage, uniting entire households by one bride and bonding families to one another. He instructed, "Do not take as your wife your sister, nor your father's sister, nor any other maiden who is related to you in a way that prevents marriage," detailing the types of relationships that would hinder such unions. It suffices for your affection to arise from sharing the same womb or from other familial ties. Therefore, why should the expanse of love be confined? Why not enhance the inclination to love, particularly when choosing a bride from unfamiliar families brings with it a multitude of connections—mother, father, siblings, and their neighbors? Can you see how myriad are the ways in which God has brought us together?