Chapter 42—Counsel Regarding Intermarriage

[Note: these messages were written by Ellen G. White in 1896 and 1912. Repeated statements from her pen concerning racial relationships clearly indicate that her counsel on interracial marriage is not an issue of racial inequality; but essentially a question of advisability or inadvisability stemming from circumstances and conditions that could result in “controversy, confusion and bitterness.” See Appendix 2, “Important Factors in Choosing a Life Companion.” Ellen G. White has repeatedly reaffirmed her understanding of, and firm belief in, the equality of all races and the brotherhood of mankind. See Appendix 3, “The Brotherhood of Mankind.”—White trustees]

We are one brotherhood. No matter what the gain or the loss, we must act nobly and courageously in the sight of God and our Saviour. Let us as Christians who accept the principle that all men, white and black, are free and equal, adhere to this principle, and not be cowards in the face of the world, and in the face of the heavenly intelligences. We should treat the colored man just as respectfully as we would treat the white man. And we can now, by precept and example, win others to this course.

But there is an objection to the marriage of the white race with the black. All should consider that they have no right to entail upon their offspring that which will place them at a disadvantage; they have no right to give them as a birthright a condition which would subject them to a life of humiliation. The children of these mixed marriages have a feeling of bitterness toward the parents who have given them this lifelong inheritance. For this reason, if there were no other, there should be no intermarriage between the white and the colored race.—Manuscript 7, 1896.

Answer to an Inquiry

Dear Friend

In reply to inquiries regarding the advisability of intermarriage between Christian young people of the white and black races, I will say that in my earlier experience this question was brought before me, and the light given me of the Lord was that this step should not be taken; for it is sure to create controversy and confusion. I have always had the same counsel to give. No encouragement to marriages of this character should be given among our people. Let the colored brother enter into marriage with a colored sister who is worthy, one who loves God, and keeps His commandments. Let the white sister who contemplates uniting in marriage with the colored brother refuse to take this step, for the Lord is not leading in this direction.

Time is too precious to be lost in controversy that will arise over this matter. Let not questions of this kind be permitted to call our ministers from their work. The taking of such a step will create confusion and hindrance. It will not be for the advancement of the work or for the glory of God.—Letter 36, 1912.

The Lord looks upon the creatures He has made with compassion, no matter to what race they may belong. God “hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth.” Genesis 17:26^L. Speaking to His disciples the Saviour said, “All ye are brethren.” Matthew 23:8^L. God is our common Father, and each one of us is our brother’s keeper.—The Review and Herald, January 21, 1896.