Legislation

God's desire for His people was that they marry within the body of believers. The Mosaic Law clearly stated that an Israelite was never to marry a Canaanite. The Israelite would be constantly tempted to embrace the spouse's god as well (Ex 34:10-17; Deut 7:3-4). Likewise, the apostle Paul commanded the members of the church at Corinth, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers" (2 Cor 6:14).
Marriages between Israelite s were directed by law, and all incestuous relationships were outlawed (Lev 18:6-8; 20:19-21). In addition, priests were forbidden to marry prostitutes and divorced women (Lev 21:7, 13-14). Daughters who inherited their father's possessions had to marry within their tribe or lose their inheritance (Num 27:8; 36:2-4).