A Nigerian pastor, Prophet Apata Joseph Enoch, has sparked discussion with his advice on marriage, urging people to avoid marrying spouses they consider ugly because they will not age well. He made the comments in a Facebook post, where he also praised his wife for maintaining her beauty over the years.
Pastor's Personal Testimony
Prophet Enoch, who says he is 54 years old while his wife is 50, shared a personal anecdote to illustrate his point. He claimed that he had once wanted to marry a different woman, but God advised him against it, telling him he would not like her appearance when she grew old. “The woman I wanted to marry before, God told me I wouldn't like her in her old age. Today, she looks like someone I can't take pictures with,” he wrote.
Call for Practicality in Marriage Decisions
The pastor advised his followers to be practical when choosing a spouse, especially considering the inevitable effects of aging. “Don't marry an ugly person because of old age. Open your heart and eyes,” he stated. He emphasized that he values a beautiful wife and thanked God for guiding him toward his current partner. “I'm 54, my sweetheart 50. Don't marry an ugly person because of old age. ... I bless God. I hear from this merciful God who knows I like a fine and beautiful wife.”
Reactions and Implications
The post has generated mixed reactions online, with some supporting the pastor's candor while others criticize it as shallow. The remarks highlight ongoing debates about the role of physical appearance in marriage and the societal pressure to maintain youth and beauty. The pastor's advice, delivered from a religious perspective, has nonetheless stirred conversations about expectations in long-term relationships.
