Marriage as a choice or duty: Considering Nigerian Christians’ attitude to singlehood from the biblical perspective

Of recent in Nigeria, there has been a considerable increase the rate of involuntary singlehood, particularly among women. It constitutes major constraint for Christians because general perception that Bible commands everyone to marry – belief which they derive from Genesis 1:28 and 2:18, 24. However, most people who have this notion, hardly take cognisance Paul’s preference celibacy as 1 Corinthians 7. The situation is compounded by popular Christian preaching an attitude favour marriage against singlehood. result frantic desperation Nigerian women get married. Against background, article attempted ascertain if necessarily obligation Christians, appraised single women’s understanding passages presented study. As author article, I did exegeses texts interacted with relevant material on singlehood its constraints, especially relation work found derived obligatory all, are largely misunderstood. Hence, not contention 7 views equal. In view this, considered married unnecessary. For reason, it advised church Nigeria imbibe biblical perspective equality inculcate members. Contribution: contribution context theology marriage, particular relevance where still moral duty all.