Is there a difference between dating and courting?

[Dave Slayer]

Is there a difference between dating and courting? If so, what are they? Which is the Biblical way?

 

[TCHOP561]

No, courting is the traditional name. It is basically the same thing as dating. You date (or court) a woman to get to know them and decide if you're going to marry that person.

 

[Blazin Bones]

I would contend that there is a difference in our culture today. Most people would never casually court someone. If you go to the Bowling Alley with a sweetheart that can be just a casual date. However, I do not think one casual date constitutes a courting. When someone mentions courting these days, the conversation typically gets more serious. So perhaps that is the difference.

 

[Caroline H]

Courting, in my thinking, is a more accountable way of getting to know someone. I always think of dating as something very casual, and not involving family. Courting is done around family more so, and involves the guidance of parents (if one is still living at home), and one is less likely to let emotions guide the way. Dating is guided solely on emotions, which can lead to allll sorts of trouble.

This is just my experience, so others may not see it the same.

 

[savvykate]

I think there is a big difference. Courtship implies serious intentions, like you're actually considering the other person as a possible spouse. Dating is just going out and having a good time, but not necessarily planning on marrying anybody, including your date. I also think dating is kind of dangerous because there is an expectation for lots of people, even Christians, that you're going to end up having sex, but in courtship, that's mostly a term used by conservative people, Christians and people looking for lifelong partners, not boyfriends or girlfriends.

 

[Sparkey]

Thank you all, I needed to hear this. :yes

~Sparrow

Lord, my heart is open for You to write this into me. I know the truth of it and desire this within written deeply by You in my secret places.

 

[justvisiting]

Maybe it's just my conception, but to me courting involves planning for a marriage with someone that has shown at least a positive response to further relations. A date... well, that's all it is. One day out or maybe a few... I think courting comes after dating. ;)