The Philippines is recognized as a country with a Muslim population, and it holds numerous customs related to marriage. Alongside Islamic practices, a variety of other cultural traditions are widely observed across the country. These include the practice of 'Mahr' (dowry), 'Mehndi' (henna), and the 'Yugal' (ceremonial cord).
'Mahr' or dowry
'Mahr' or 'dowry' is the obligatory gift that is given to the bride at the time of marriage. It can be given in the form of money, home goods, or land. The gift is given as an act of respect and a sign of recognition of independence. While some traditions view mahr as an 'unspoken' gift, it is in fact a requirement.
Mahr' is a traditional part of the marriage process in Islamic countries. It is a sign of a man's love for his wife and his commitment to providing for her needs financially. In wealthy Arab countries, 'Mahr' can range from 5000 Euros to 40,000 Euros.
Originally, mahr was paid to the wali, the guardian of the bride. It is now paid directly to the bride, unlike in the western arranged marriage tradition. According to Islamic law, the mahr can be paid either before or after the wedding ceremony.
Men and women will most likely be segregated at the ceremony. Men can take on the role of the Wali, a male relative who is a member of the bride's family. The Wali will not accept a marriage without the consent of the bride.
The amount of 'Mahr' or 'dowry' can be as high or low as the groom and the bride agree. However, some families will link Mahr to a woman's beauty, salary, and education. This can help filter out bad suitors.
The 'Mahr' is the sum of money or property that is given to a wife by her husband. It is often very large and is given as a symbol of the groom's commitment to his bride. This dowry is also a requirement of marriage and is usually a legal complication. If the husband does not pay his dowry, then the marriage contract is considered a breach.
In addition to the dowry, the bride's family may also give her a small sum to the groom. This is a traditional gift, which is demanded by the groom's family as a way to make sure her daughter is well-cared for in her new home. However, the dowry can lead to a lot of hardship for the bride, her parents, and her relatives.
Heena or mehndi
Heena or mehndi is a traditional decoration for brides' hands and feet. This tradition takes place a few days before the wedding. The bride is expected to stay home and not work until the henna has been completely removed, though it is possible for her to cheat by filling in lines that have faded. This tradition is common in Muslim countries, mostly in the Arab world.
The ceremony involves applying henna to the bride's hands and feet. It is an important part of the wedding festivities and traditionally lasts eight hours. The bride's hands and feet are painted with the henna, which is a symbol of good health and prosperity. The tradition has become popular in American culture, though it is not strictly limited to wedding ceremonies. It has also been used in private parties and in other celebrations.
Most Muslim brides in South Asia and the Middle East get a henna ceremony. This ritual is typically celebrated with close female family and friends. Special artists apply the henna paste to the bride's hands and feet. This results in a deep red stain and is believed to protect the bride. It also serves as a way to bring close family members together, and can be a great bonding opportunity.
In addition to mehndi or henna, the ceremony includes other rituals. The groom and bride will exchange gifts and other presents. The bride's family will give her jewelry, dry fruits, and Indian sweets. The ceremony will also include a singing competition between the bride and groom. The bride will wear a traditional "shalwar kameez" in yellow or green.
While it is uncommon to find a Muslim wedding in the Philippines, there are several Muslim communities in the country. One of them is the Tausug tribe. This tribal group practices matrimonial activities that are based on their ethnic laws and Islamic laws. Among Tausug members, a man may have two wives. This is considered a bigamous marriage, but it is rare.
'Mahr' is placed on the bride's head
'Mahr' is a lump sum payment that the groom gives to the bride upon her marriage. It's traditionally given in the form of money but can also take the form of gold or a trip. The amount of money chosen should be based on the future income of the bride's future husband.
The ceremony also includes a prayer praising Allah and asking for protection. The groom also swears to obey and remain faithful to his bride even after the marriage. The couple then sign a contract known as a Nikkahnaama, the Muslim marriage certificate. This is usually signed by the bride's father and a representative from the groom's family.
The rukhsat is one of the most important and emotional ceremonies for the bride. In this ceremony, the bride says goodbye to her parents. The groom's parents then place a Qur'an over her head as a sign of blessing and protection.
After the nikkah, the newlyweds sit on a stage where they exchange gifts and meet their friends. A mirror is placed between them. In the nikkah, the couple looks into the mirror to see their reflections. In muslim wedding traditions, the bride is then given a gift by her groom. This gift may be in the form of a ring or property.
Afterwards, the bride and groom visit her parents' home. She asks their parents to bless them. The bride and groom also receive gifts from their in-laws. The ceremony lasts for four days. The wedding is an honor for both families.
Marriage in Muslim culture is a legal contract and a religious obligation. The Quran lists marriage as one of the most important duties of a Muslim. However, Muslim wedding traditions vary by country and sect, and even by culture.
A Muslim wedding can take place in a mosque, church, or even at the bride's home. A mullah oversees the ceremony. The groom informs the bride's parents of his intentions and obtains their permission. The officiant is usually a community leader.
