The definition of the word marriage is a topic of debate that often comes up when discussing same-sex marriages. The word "marriage" is not defined in just one standard way across the world, but in a large variety. According to debate.org, in 1922 the word was taken to refer to a relationship of one man with one woman that is recognized by law, which they both would earn certain legal and social rights. Modern definitions of the word have much more disparity. For example, The Oxford English Dictionary has acknowledged same-sex marriage in its definition since 2000; however, many conservative publications have not yet changed their definitions. For example, Accuracy in Media argues for the use of quotation marks when referring to a marriage between two people of the same gender. Associated Press uses the term "gay marriage" and warns that this can refer to marriage of both gay men and lesbian couples. The conflict over same-sex marriage is not a simple one. It involves many legislative, cultural, religious and family issues.
Clearly marriage has multiple meanings that this topic carries with it a great amount of controversy. It is proven that those who support same-sex marriage often argue that love is love enough for marriage, regardless of sexual orientation. As for those who oppose same-sex marriage often bring up religion. Arguments for and against the gay marriage debate often involve religious factors. Some religious associations refuse to employ or offer services to same-sex couples. Christian groups who argue for same-sex marriage tend to believe that "lesbian and gay people were created as such by God and should have the same rights as others". Those who are against it argue that "same-sex relationships are immoral, against God's will and subvert the goal of human sexuality, which is to produce children". The Jewish church also varies in its approach to same-sex marriage. The Islamic faith openly rejects homosexuality, "citing the story of Lot in Sodom as a condemnation of homosexuality."
From a legal standpoint, those on the opposing side of the gay marriage debate often believe that the rights of marriage should be restricted to couples who are of the opposite sex. Those who are for it believe that marriage is a civil right and should not have restrictions to those of a particular sexual orientation. Many of those who take a particular position on same-sex marriage do so because of their beliefs about family. Many argue that "a child has a right to grow up with a father and a mother, and to raise him or her in a homosexual household is to deny him that right". On the other hand, scientific studies have shown that "children raised by homosexual parents are every bit as capable of providing heterosexual parenting to their own children later in life." The conflict over same-sex marriage is a big one because of the many social and legal factors involved.