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> Since marriage was originally defined by religion

This is not actually true. Marriage is a very very old concept.

Marriage defined as a voluntary expression of love and commitment between equals is very, very, very modern.

It wasn't long ago that marriage was also widely accepted as an asset for parents to sell. It was relatively recent that monogamy wasn't assumed, and that the maximum number in such unions was two.

What does it have to do with religion, though?

Nothing, if you're asking me.

I mean, the original point was that marriage was originally a religious concept (which is, AFAIK, incorrect). Whether the motivation for the union is love or material interests is a different issue, though it is also an interesting point.

So is religion.

Marriage certainly predates the Abrahamic religions.

Religion predates the Abrahamic religions too.

For what reason did you feel compelled to make that blindingly obvious point?

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