Page:Dissertationonma00livi.djvu/179

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SECTION XI.

CONCLUSION.

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter. What is the practical result? THE LORD GOD FORBIDS A MAN TO MARRY HIS SISTER IN LAW; WHETHER SHE BE THE WIDOW OF HIS DECEASED BROTHER, OR THE SISTER OF HIS DECEASED WIFE. BY THE DIVINE LAW SHE IS HIS SISTER. SHE IS NEAR OF KIN TO HIM. IT IS INCEST.

Marriage is a divine Institution. The law of God respecting that ordinance must THEREFORE remain the only standard, by which a judgment can be formed concerning the parties who may lawfully enter into that holy state, as well as of the duties incumbent for its protection after consummation.

The Union produced by marriage constitutes a source of kindred and creates relatives, which, as it respects the parties in the connubial connection, is