Marriage is distinctly and repeatedly excluded from heaven. Is this because it is thought likely to mar the general felicity?

Samuel Butler’s quote reflects a satirical and philosophical take on the concept of marriage in relation to the afterlife, specifically heaven. He humorously observes that marriage is often excluded from the idea of heaven in religious and cultural depictions. This exclusion prompts the question of whether marriage is seen as something that could diminish the happiness or felicity of the eternal afterlife. By phrasing the exclusion as a question, Butler invites reflection on why marriage, traditionally seen as a sacred institution, is not part of the divine plan in many religious beliefs.

The quote draws attention to the tension between earthly institutions and heavenly ideals. In many religious traditions, the notion of heaven is associated with pure joy, bliss, and eternal peace, which might be seen as incompatible with the often complex, challenging, and sometimes conflicting nature of human relationships, particularly marriage. Butler’s suggestion that marriage could "mar" or spoil this general felicity highlights the potential difficulties that come with intimate partnerships, which are often fraught with personal struggles and compromises.

Butler’s exploration of the relationship between marriage and heaven can also be understood as a critique of societal views on romantic relationships. He seems to question the idealization of marriage as the ultimate form of happiness or fulfillment. By excluding marriage from heaven, he indirectly points to the idea that perhaps personal contentment or spiritual fulfillment may be found outside of conventional societal norms, such as marriage, which is often portrayed as an obligatory life goal.

Originating from his work "The Way of All Flesh", this quote uses irony and wit to engage with deep philosophical questions about life, love, and the nature of the human experience. It reflects Butler’s broader exploration of human relationships and institutions, emphasizing their flaws and their potential to distract from or interfere with higher, spiritual pursuits.