"Putting asunder" is a common phrase used in religious wedding vows to signify the promise to remain together until death. The word "asunder" is pronounced as əˈsʌn.dər and originates from Old English. The spelling of the word "asunder" may seem confusing, particularly because it sounds like "a-sun-der". However, the correct spelling of the word is "asunder," with the letter "s" following the "a". Nevertheless, regardless of its spelling, the phrase remains an essential part of traditional marriage vows.
"Putting asunder" is an idiomatic expression that means to separate or divide something into distinct parts or pieces. This phrase is often used metaphorically to describe the act of severing or breaking apart a previously unified entity, such as a relationship, partnership, or union.
The term originated from the biblical phrase found in the New Testament, specifically in Mark 10:9, which states, "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." This verse refers to the sanctity of marriage and emphasizes the importance of maintaining the unity of the marital bond.
In a broader sense, "putting asunder" can refer to the dissolution or disintegration of anything that was once connected or united. This can include the separation or fragmentation of ideas, principles, organizations, or even physical objects.
The phrase carries a sense of finality and often implies an irreversible break or division. It suggests the end of a previously existing unity or relationship, highlighting the consequences and implications of such separation.
Overall, "putting asunder" encapsulates the notion of dividing or separating a unified entity, both literally and metaphorically, and conveys the idea of dismantling or rupturing a previous state of cohesion or union.
The phrase "putting asunder" has its roots in the Old English language.
The word "putting" is derived from the Old English word "putian", which means "to throw, to thrust, or to put". In this context, it refers to the act of separating or dividing something.
The term "asunder" comes from the Old English phrase "on sundran", which means "into separate parts" or "into pieces". Over time, "on sundran" evolved into "asunder", which has the same meaning.
The expression "putting asunder" is commonly found in religious contexts, specifically referring to divorce or the dissolution of marriage. It is often used in the phrase "what God has joined together, let no man put asunder", which can be found in the Bible (Matthew 19:6) and is often recited during wedding ceremonies.