Ceremony for marriage

Ceremony for marriageBy:- Atraya TrivediWhat is a MARRIAGE??? Marriage, also called matrimony or wedlock, is a socially or ritually recognized union or legal contract between spouses that establishes rights and obligations between them, between them and their children, and between them and their in-laws. The definition of marriage varies according to different cultures, but it is principally an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually sexual, are acknowledged. In some cultures, marriage is recommended or considered to be compulsory before pursuing any sexual activity. When defined broadly, marriage is considered a cultural universal.Types of marriage that prevails in IndiaHinduMuslimChristianParsiJewishhinduThe Hindu marriage ceremony, called the vivaha samskaras, contains many rituals and symbols that mark the marital rite of passage. One of these rituals, the Sapta-padi or The Rite of the Seven Steps, acts as the most defining wedding ceremony act. It constitutes the essence of a Hindu wedding, by validating and religiously legalizing the marriage . At the same time, the practice elucidates both the purposes and goals of Hindu marriage, as well as ultimate objectives for Hindu life as a whole. The Rite of the Seven StepsTake this first step for the abundance of nourishment in life or May we fulfill our duties with honor and become worthy of meritTake this step for strength in life. Take this third step for prosperity in lifeTake this fourth step for the fulfillment of all earthly desiresTake the fifth step for procreationTake this sixth step for the enjoyment of the various seasons of lifeTake this seventh step for a lifelong friendshipmuslimAmong the various religious institutions in Islam there is the Nikah ceremony also known as marriage. It is not a new one as it has been in existence since the creation of Mankind. Though it existed in different forms, the reasons behind its celebration are practically the same. There are steps to be followed when someone wants to get married or when a Nikah is to be validated.Cont....Firstly, there must be the proposal and acceptance. It is imperative that both the bride-to-be and the groom must consent to marry. If any party refuses then there is no Nikah as forced marriage is not valid in Islam. Secondly, there must be an Imam to conduct the Nikah. It is Sunnah of the prophet (s.a.w) that the father of the girl should conduct the Nikah but in this present world, due to lack of formation it is more practical for the Imam. Thirdly, it is recommended upon the Imam to deliver a sermon to elaborate on what the Nikah is, why do we have to get married and specially to remind the couple of their duties towards Allah and towards each other. Fourthly, the marriage contract will be done and duly signed by the respective parties. There can be different kinds of conditions and terms. For instance, allowing the girl to work or receiving no permission to have a second wife as long as the first one is alive, can be stipulated. Fifthly, each one of the couple will be asked thrice whether they wish to marry. There will be two witnesses who will sign the contract as well. Being a contract it can be terminated by either side if the conditions are not respected.Cont....Sixthly, there must be the dowry which is a gift the groom gives to the bride. It can be any reasonable amount or wealth. Seventhly, the dua and prayers will be said by the Imam for the happiness of the bride and groom. This will lead to all Muslims congratulating the groom.Eighthly, there will be the Walima which is the feast given a few days later after the marriage has been consummated. This is a recommended action which is wajib. Ninthly, there must be no singing, no dancing, no show off, no wastage and no illicit or immoral activities or happenings during the Nikah or the Walimah. It is allowed, as it is found in the Hadith and Sunnah of the prophet, to beat the Daf. Tenthly, in Mauritius we have several instances which are added. For example, a religious ceremony and Quranic recital in a gathering known as Mawlood is done before the Nikah as a means to ask dua for the couple. On the eve of Nikah, there is another ceremony of applying the henna on the hands and feet of the bride. On the day after the Nikah there is a gathering, known as the Chawtari, of the closest relatives around a meal to thank all those who help in the NikahChristianThe Swedenborg ChapePresentation of the BrideThe VisionIntentionsMarriage VowsRingsMarriage PrayerSigning of Marriage LicenseCandle LightingPronouncementWedding Kiss PresentationparsiThe groom comes to the venue before the bride. When the bride arrives, the couple then sit opposite each other seperated by a white cloth, as a curtain between them. Two witnesses from each side stand on either side. Then the priest asks the couple if they have consented to the marriage - this is the last chance of refusal. If consent is granted, their hands are tied together with a white dhaga. This is called Haathevaro. Another loop of dhaga is tied around the couple to enclose them in a circle. This symbolizes unity and the tying of the marriage knot. The priest blesses the couple and asks for the witness' consent. Ashirvad (blessings) is granted to the newly wed and the ceremony ends with the recital of the Tan-dorosti prayer (for good health). Rice and rose petals are sprinkled over the couple. Then there is an exchange of rings and the bride signs the marriage certificate. After this, the bride's unmarried sister symbolically washes the groom's feet by sprinkling milk and dropping coins.Jewish Kabbalat PanimBadekenChuppahBlessings of Betrothal (Kiddushin)Giving of the RingKetubah (Marriage Contract)The Seven BlessingsBreaking the GlassYichudThe Festive Meal (Seudah)