In my mind, marriage is a spiritual partnership and union in which we willingly give and receive love, create and share intimacy, and open ourselves to be available and accessible to another human being in order to heal, learn and grow.

In this quote, Iyanla Vanzant describes marriage as a spiritual partnership that goes beyond the legal or social contract. She emphasizes that marriage is a union where both partners willingly give and receive love, engage in the deep sharing of intimacy, and remain available and accessible to one another. Vanzant portrays marriage as a space for mutual healing, learning, and growth, where both individuals can evolve together and support each other’s personal journeys.

The origin of this quote reflects Vanzant’s broader philosophy of relationships, which often focuses on healing, self-awareness, and spiritual development. As an author, speaker, and spiritual teacher, Vanzant frequently discusses the importance of emotional and spiritual connection in personal relationships, especially in her work around self-love and healing from past trauma. Her view of marriage aligns with her belief that relationships should serve as vehicles for transformation and personal growth, rather than simply fulfilling external expectations.

Vanzant's view of marriage as a spiritual bond also highlights the importance of vulnerability and openness in a committed relationship. Rather than seeing marriage as a conventional or transactional arrangement, she envisions it as a sacred space where both partners are able to show up authentically, learning from each other and contributing to each other’s healing. This perspective encourages couples to approach marriage with intention and a commitment to personal development, creating a dynamic of mutual support and deep connection.

Ultimately, the quote reflects a more holistic view of marriage, emphasizing that it is not just about partnership and companionship, but also about individual and collective growth. Vanzant encourages couples to see marriage as a transformative journey where love, intimacy, and spiritual connection lead to the healing and evolution of both individuals. This perspective promotes a deeper, more meaningful understanding of marriage as a living, evolving relationship.