What does the Bible say about in-laws?
In-laws can be a profound blessing or a profound strain. Ruth and Naomi show how godly love between in-laws can shape the future of nations. The Bible affirms the new family unit ("leave… and cleave") while honoring the wider family God gives.
"A man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife." The marriage takes priority — but priority is not abandonment.
Honor your parents and your spouse’s parents. The fifth commandment doesn’t stop applying when you marry.
When tension arises, the couple stands together. Husband and wife protect their marriage from interference, while extending grace and prayer to in-laws who may not behave gracefully.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.