Thursday 19 January 2017

What is the Meaning of Dating and Why Do People Date?


A few weeks ago I read an article with the title: 'Dating is not a Marriage Proposal'.  

The article was quite rational defending young men who have been 'forced' into marriage just because they were dating a certain lady. 

The writer had put down all the right facts on, why ladies should not take dating as a promise of marriage. How could I argue with facts?

Like a rational human-being, I decided
to take time to internalize the article which was difficult for me.

It is not that I do not agree with the writer but I feel that, there is actually a big relationship between dating and marriage. The one thing I believe the writer of the article would argue with me for days.

I believe that the article was not fair to the ladies. What happens on the occasion when the man decides he is willing to date numerous women? Secondly, how do you console a woman after dating a man for 5 years, 7, or even 10 years only for the relationship to end?.... I thought so too!!

What is the Meaning of Dating?
It feels like the current generation has totally lost the meaning of dating. If you disagree with me, just share with us the times you have had people use the term 'going out' versus 'dating'. 'Going out' and 'having fun' are now synonyms of dating.

The word Dating has numerous meanings for different individuals.

The general meaning can be the initial stages of a relationship where a couple goes out socially to have fun as they take time to know each other well before they can fully commit to the relationship. 

Every relationship is built through dating. However, every individual has their own view and rules of dating. Therefore, before you agree to go on that date, make sure you put your cards on the table to avoid getting into a 'situation-ship'. We all want different things out of date and relationship.

Why do People Date?

1. To Have Fun and Socialize

There are different types of dating and whichever type works for you it can be fun. 

Going out is a great way to enjoy your free time as you get to know your friend better. It is also an avenue for you to meet and interact with different people.

Another benefit of dating is the development of social cues. when you go out, you learn how to behave around other people and how to carry yourself in public. 

In addition, socializing helps you develop your personality through the exposure that you get to numerous individuals.

2. To Seek Intimacy and Companionship

Men and women were both created as social beings and they tend to crave affection from the opposite sex. That is how God created us and that is why we are unable to live alone. 

Dating is a normal way of getting affection and avoiding loneliness. as you date someone, spending time with them, helps you relax as you take your mind off your busy life.

However, make sure you set the record straight at the beginning so that your Date is well aware of your limits. Make sure you read Thou Shall Respect Thy Body

3. To Search for a Lifetime Partner and Prepare for a lifetime Commitment 

This is the most common reason for dating. Subconsciously, everyone is looking for a person who is compatible with them so that they could spend their lives together (except for those who have taken a vow of celibacy).
Matthew 19:11-12  MSG
11. But Jesus said, "Not everyone is mature enough to live a married life. It requires a certain aptitude and grace. Marriage isn't for everyone.
12. Some, from birth seemingly, never give marriage a thought. Others never get asked - or accepted. And some decide not to get married for kingdom reasons. But if you're capable of growing into the largeness of marriage, do it."

Deep down we are looking for the 'one'. For others, it will take time as you kiss the frogs but for a few, it only takes one kiss. 

I blame the prolonged search on pretense and hypocrisy because very few Millenials are ready to commit to a relationship without a bit of exploration. 


There should be a level of soberness in dating. Yes, I agree dating is not a marriage proposal but I feel it is an expression of interest in the same. The duration and terms of association should be what guide you when you are in that relationship.

Here are Related Articles.


2 comments:

  1. Very true... People should start taking this dating thing seriously

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dating has a meaning!!

    ReplyDelete