Marriage had its perks, especially during times of war.

When a man took a bride, he would first fulfil the bridal week (Gen.29:27) This was a kind of honeymoon period except that the whole village was invited to the party. Once the feasting was over and everyone went home, life returned to normal.

If a king called for a draft of young men to serve in the army, a newlywed was passed over. A man was exempt from military duty for one whole year, in order that he could stay home with his new wife.

This was that he would "be free at home one year, and bring happiness to his wife" (Deut.24:5)

Gail- Anybody else think this is a good idea?

If I remember correctly, it used to happen in the 1960's with at least some draft boards here in the USA.

I think they should avoid getting pregnant the first year too for the same reason.

Shane, during the time that the "draft" was active (A US issue.) no pregnant person was ever (not even once) inducted into any of the U.S. Armed Forces. In addition, not one drafted solder ever (not one) became pregnant within the first 12 months of their entry into the Armed Forces.


The stats on the above statement of mine are clear, objective, and without question.