Wedding Customs and Traditions

Wedding customs and traditions around the world are as diverse as the cultures that embrace and perpetuate them. They are considered a sign of identity and as such they are highly respected and adhered to religiously. It is also interesting to note how these diverse customs and traditions are getting increasingly intertwined as the world becomes a global village and intermarriages are on the rise. This necessitates at least a basic knowledge in these diverse matrimonial traditions as one is bound to be in an intercultural nuptial celebration even if as a guest. In most cultures, however, the marriage union is highly revered and a wedded couple is regarded well in society. Traditionally it is considered a rite of passage that most young people aspire to by a certain age.

Oriental and African Wedding Traditions

In many cultures especially in the orient and Muslim cultures, planned marriages are the norm. This is usually an agreement between the two families involved and it can be done as early as when the couple are infants. It is a respected custom by all such that the entire community knows that the two are betrothed and may not be approached by another for a marriage proposal. A breach in such an agreement attracts a hefty fine paid by the offender and the family. The bride and groom are usually of the same class socially and they grow up being groomed to be a spouse to each other in the customary way. Divorce is not acceptable in most cultures except in extreme cases and polygamy is only accepted with consent from the first wife or wives.

Bride price, dowry or a gift is usually paid from one family to another. In African society this is paid by the groom and his family to the bride’s family. This is an intricate and sensitive matter that elders in society are consulted to give a reasonable figure. A couple is considered married only after this figure is paid up. When this is insurmountable, it is paid in installments on agreement from both families. In Hindu culture, the dowry is paid by the bride’s family to the groom’s family. In the Jewish culture gifts are given to the bride’s family and the bride also receives gifts from the groom as a sign of love and honour.

In some cultures such as the Muslims and even in some traditional African societies, the bridal ceremony goes on for several days each significant in its intricate detail. In most communities including the Muslim and Philippines the bride and groom do not meet a day before they are married. Infact for the Muslims the bride and groom are in separate rooms when they say their vows and only meet after this! Colour is also symbolic in certain cultures such as the Chinese who have a soft spot for red. It signifies love and joy. Most brides choose this colour for their wedding garments and it is also used to wrap gifts couple with gold for wealth and happiness.