Friday, January 25, 2013

How is Muslim Wedding ?

How is Muslim Wedding ?


Muslims who come from Muslim families sometimes want to part with tradition, especially when wedding traditions require elaborate affairs that are out of the couple's budget. The Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) had very simple weddings, as did his contemporaries. Whether you want a 10-day extravaganza or an austere ceremony, a few details are essential.

Secure the required elements of a valid Muslim marriage: negotiate agreeable marriage terms, including a dower. A dower is a gift from the groom to the bride. Her family's culture may specify a gift, but anything permissible for a Muslim to own that is mutually agreed upon is allowed. The dower will be listed on your written marriage agreement, which is similar to the Jewish ketubah and can be enforceable in civil courts under certain conditions. The marriage agreement, known as the kitab al-nikah or colloquially as the kitab, contains conditions that the couple agree upon that will be adhered to in the course of the marriage and govern some aspects of divorce.For some Muslims, a guardian or proxy to consent on behalf of the woman is required. Consult the woman's family if they are Muslim, or the imam at the mosque you attend if they are not, to select such a guardian or proxy. Determine who you would like to serve as witnesses. There must be at least two Muslim adults, and preferably at least one should be male.

Plan the elements that you would like for the marriage ceremony. This can be as simple as signing the marriage agreement with witnesses at home or in the office at the mosque, or a lavish affair with a procession. It is traditional for the officiant to give a short sermon on the important of marriage, but not required for a valid marriage. The only required elements of the ceremony are the proposal of marriage, the consent of the other party, the transfer of the dower, and the acknowledgement of the witnesses.

Plan and hold the walimah, or wedding feast. This can be as simple as tea and cake, or a multi-course meal. This is very similar to non-Muslim wedding receptions. While the details of the walimah are technically up to the couple, this is the area where cultural traditions and familial preferences may have a strong sway.

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