The One True Person – Does It Really Exist?

You’ve probably asked yourself whether there is really “the one true person” for you – the one who is perfectly made for you, like two halves of a whole. But where does this deeply rooted thought come from? This article explores this question based on the Bible and provides a clear answer.

Origin of the Idea of the One Person

Many of us are familiar with the concept of “the one true person.” The perfect complement that makes us whole. But where does this idea come from? The belief that there is a specific partner for everyone is not just romantic but also deeply ingrained in culture. In ancient Greece, Plato spoke of the idea of “soulmates.” Humans were originally created as whole beings but were then separated by the gods and are now searching for their “lost half.”

Similar ideas can be found in the Bible. The story of Adam and Eve, where Eve is created as a complement to Adam, may give us the impression that there is “the one” partner for each of us.

Romantic literature and films like Titanic or The Notebook reinforce this notion, portraying a predetermined love that only happens once in a lifetime. This idea is also carried on in esotericism, where people speak of “soulmates” who are fatefully connected.

The Bible and Christian Teachings – What Does God Say About the Idea of the One True Person?

When we think of the Bible, the story of Adam and Eve seems to provide the perfect foundation for the belief that there is “the one” person for each of us. But upon closer inspection, a different picture emerges. The Bible does not suggest that God assigns each person one single, predetermined partner. Instead, it focuses on how people should interact with each other in love, respect, and responsibility.

The creation story describes that God made humans as beings meant for community (Genesis 2). It’s about relationships, not perfection. Adam and Eve are not symbolic of “soulmates” in the romantic sense but represent that relationships are divinely intended and are based on complementing and supporting each other.

In the New Testament, marriage is not portrayed as a fateful connection between two “predestined” partners. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of mutual love, devotion, and responsibility within marriage (Ephesians 5:25-33). The decision to choose a partner and build a relationship based on faithfulness and respect is central. Not the idea of a preordained “perfect” union.

A Brief Excerpt: The Permanent Nature of Marriage – What Does Faith Say?

The permanent nature of marriage is often discussed in faith, and I’ll briefly touch on it here. Different Christian denominations view this topic differently.

• Catholic Church: Marriage is considered a permanent sacrament. Divorce is theologically impossible; only annulment – the declaration that the marriage was invalid from the start (e.g., due to lack of free will or deceit) – is allowed.
• Orthodox Church: Marriage is also considered a sacrament, but under certain circumstances, such as the failure of the relationship, a second or third marriage may be permitted. The original marriage is recognized as failed, but not completely “dissolved.”
• Protestant Churches: Divorces are acknowledged if the marriage has irreparably broken down. Marriage is viewed as important but not permanent.
• Other denominations, such as Free Churches or the Anglican Church, generally allow divorces and remarriages, but emphasize the importance of marriage.

The Responsibility of Choice

God has a good plan for each person and leads them in wonderful ways, but He also allows us the freedom to make decisions. This means we bear great responsibility, especially when choosing a partner. This decision should be made carefully and only when one is ready to stand by it. According to Catholic teaching, the chosen partner becomes “the one” through marriage, to whom one is bound. Nevertheless, the freedom of choice is central: If a marriage is entered into under false pretenses, an annulment can be requested, making the person free again. However, if the decision was made consciously and freely, the marriage is considered permanent.

So, Does the Bible Really Say There Is “The One”?

It can thus be clearly stated that, from a biblical and Christian perspective, there is no “one” predestined person. Instead, the Bible shows that humans are equipped with free will to make decisions independently – including the choice of a partner.

Marriage is therefore not determined by finding the “perfect” partner but by the conscious decision of two people to build their lives together, love one another, and take responsibility for each other. In Christian teaching, it is emphasized that love and faithfulness in marriage are sacred. A person is not forced, but freely chooses who to enter into this bond with. The chosen partner then becomes, through marriage (especially in the Catholic view), “the one” person with whom one remains connected.

Honesty and Respect in Every Relationship

Regardless of whether one is religious or not, it is essential to treat one another with honesty and respect and clearly communicate intentions. This is not only fair to the other person but also forms the foundation of any healthy relationship.

Some people want to marry quickly, while others take their time or may not seek marriage at all. To avoid misunderstandings and disappointments, it is important to be honest and open from the start. Only then can a relationship be built on trust and mutual respect. This is something nearly everybody might agree on.

A relationship can only succeed if the “relationship basics” such as honesty, respect, communication, and trust are present. Without these fundamental elements, it becomes difficult to maintain a healthy and stable partnership. Read the article on the must-haves for a healthy relationship to understand how important it is to live these basics so a relationship can truly grow and thrive.