"Live without benefit of clergy" is an old-fashioned phrase that refers to cohabiting outside of marriage. The spelling of this phrase may seem unusual, but it follows the customary pronunciation in both British and American English. The IPA transcription for this phrase is /lɪv wɪðaʊt ˈbɛnɪfɪt əv ˈklɜrdʒi/. The term "clergy" is pronounced with a hard g sound, as in "urgent," rather than a soft g sound, as in "gem." The phrase is not commonly used today, but it is still occasionally encountered in literature or legal contexts.
"Live without benefit of clergy" is a phrase used to describe cohabitation or any relationship where a couple lives together without being married in a religious or legal ceremony, and hence without the presence or approval of clergy. This term originated from the legal and social conventions of medieval Europe where marriage was considered a sacrament under the exclusive jurisdiction of the clergy. In those times, the religious ceremony, often performed by a member of the clergy, was essential to solemnize a marriage and validate its legality.
By living without benefit of clergy, individuals or couples forgo the religious or ceremonial aspects associated with traditional marriage. This can be a deliberate choice, for personal, ideological, or social reasons, or due to societal or legal restrictions preventing them from marrying. The phrase is used to imply that the relationship lacks official recognition or endorsement from religious authorities or legal institutions.
Living without benefit of clergy often carries connotations of informal or non-traditional arrangements, which may be viewed differently across cultures and time periods. The phrase can also extend beyond the religious context to refer to any situation where one acts independently or disregards established conventions or formalities.
In contemporary society, the understanding and acceptance of relationships outside the scope of traditional marriage have evolved, with legal recognition being granted to various forms of partnerships. As a result, the use of the phrase "live without benefit of clergy" is less common in modern language.