In one of Joshua's last messages to the nation, he told them how important it is for them to cling to God (23:8). We first find that word in the Bible when Adam is told to cling to his wife so that they are one flesh (Gen 2:24).

The relationship of God with His people was always meant to be a love relationship. It is no wonder then that Paul describes the relationship of marriage as a picture of Christ and the church. Everything that would interfere in that relationship then is idolatry which the prophets refer to as an adulterous act.