Our marriage is strictly in name only. It has never been

In the ancient world, marriage was considered not just a union of two souls but a covenant, a sacred bond that shaped the very structure of society. Yet, as LaToya Jackson’s words—“Our marriage is strictly in name only. It has never been consummated”—suggest, the true meaning of marriage extends far beyond the mere ceremony and the outward appearance of union. It is a powerful reflection on how relationships, though bound by legal or societal definitions, can sometimes fall short of their deeper, spiritual purpose. Marriage, as Jackson points out, can be a hollow shell if it lacks the emotional and physical connection that gives it life.

In the time of ancient Rome, marriage was often seen as both a political and personal alliance, one that was arranged to secure power, wealth, or peace between families. The legendary union between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar, and later with Mark Antony, was not just a union of love, but a strategic alliance that played a key role in the politics of their time. Yet, despite the powerful figureheads involved, their relationships, like many in history, were fraught with conflict, disappointment, and at times, emotional distance. The idea of marriage as a union of mutual love and understanding was often secondary to the political or social goals it sought to achieve. Just as Jackson speaks of a marriage that lacks consummation, so too have many unions throughout history been reduced to mere symbols or tools for broader objectives.

Similarly, the ancient philosophers, such as Aristotle, examined marriage not just as an institution for procreation or political alliance, but as the foundation for human flourishing. Aristotle believed that the true purpose of marriage was the creation of a partnership that allowed both partners to reach their fullest potential, living a life of virtue and harmony. The consummation of marriage, in its deepest sense, was not merely about physical intimacy, but about a profound bond between two individuals. Yet, as Jackson reveals, not all marriages reach this ideal of mutual flourishing. When a marriage is reduced to names on a piece of paper, with no true connection or shared purpose, it becomes a mere formality, as hollow as the empty air between two strangers.

Consider the story of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, whose marriage, though deeply rooted in love and shared values, was not without its trials. Victoria, a monarch with immense responsibilities, and Albert, a prince consort without official power, struggled to balance their roles within the royal family. Yet, despite their personal challenges, their union became one of great respect and mutual dedication, illustrating that the consummation of a marriage is not always about perfection, but about the commitment to each other’s growth. In contrast, Jackson’s words highlight that, in some cases, marriage can be a mere name, void of true connection, and that even the outward trappings of royalty and title cannot fill the emptiness of a marriage without substance.

Jackson’s reflection offers a deep lesson on the nature of relationships—not just in marriage, but in all human bonds. True connection, whether in a partnership, a friendship, or a family, goes beyond social roles or titles. It is defined by the presence of trust, understanding, and authenticity. A relationship, when it is merely a formality, becomes a shackle rather than a source of joy and growth. To truly flourish, relationships must be rooted in something deeper than the superficial aspects that often define them. Commitment must be nurtured with compassion, and the foundation of any meaningful bond must be built on mutual respect and genuine connection.

In your own life, ask yourself: What is the true purpose of the relationships you hold dear? Are they simply social obligations or are they meaningful connections where both parties strive to grow together? Just as LaToya Jackson reflects on her own marriage as a union in name only, we must also recognize that the most profound relationships are not those that simply adhere to external definitions, but those that are consummated in the fullness of shared purpose and genuine connection. It is not enough to merely share a name or a title; we must also share a vision, a commitment, and a deep understanding of each other’s souls.

Take this lesson to heart: Relationships—whether marriages, friendships, or family bonds—require more than mere formality or the outward signs of connection. They require effort, communication, and a commitment to go beyond the surface to the true intimacy that forms the heart of every meaningful union. Like the wise men and women of old, who understood the profound value of genuine connection, let us seek to cultivate relationships that are grounded not in titles or names, but in the shared love, respect, and mutual support that nourish the human spirit.