Wedding Inspirations talked to Summayah Kenna of the Islamic Cultural Centre in Dublin, to find out more about what a Muslim wedding entails, and what makes them unique.
What do Islam and the Qu’ran say about marriage?
Marriage is a simple contract between two consenting parties (one male & one female), yet it is a powerful joining of two families, including the extended families on both sides. Marriage is a must in a Muslim’s life to create a family unit lawfully in the eyes of God. Sexual relationships outside marriage are prohibited and considered a major sin.
Are there any pre-wedding traditions or commitments before a Muslim couple may get married?
Weddings involve both families, not just the bride and groom. Traditionally the parents of the intended groom along with groom propose a visit to the family of the intended bride. During this gathering the father/guardian of the groom asks the intended bride’s parents (on behalf of his son) for the hand of the girl in marriage. Upon agreement a small prayer is read and hands are shook.
During the pre-wedding period the families meet to discuss a dowry (ranges from culture to culture: could be some dates, a quantity of gold, or a sum of money). This dowry must be paid before the wedding. If it is a large dowry (which is not encouraged Islamicly) it can be postponed upon agreement.
Where does a wedding ceremony take place? Must it be held in a mosque?
The wedding need not be held at a religious venue, the solemniser can come to the home or designated place.
What does a typical Muslim wedding ceremony involve?
The actual wedding ceremony is brief and involves both parties and their parents/guardians, plus two witnesses. The Imam will ask the bride if she is willing to enter into this marriage, and he will ask her father/guardian if the dowry has been paid and if it is agreed upon. Then he will say a brief passage and short prayer and thus join the parties in marriage.
The celebration (reception), or day of consummation of the marriage, can be at a later date if the parties prefer. This allows the newly married couple to enjoy time (like a courtship) together where they can go out together without requiring a chaperone.
Are there any special aspects of the wedding ceremony that are unique to Islamic traditions?
The ceremony itself is unique, plus the celebration usually will be in a hall or hotel function room, with one function room for the women and one separate room for the men. Sometimes the men will be at a separate venue, and at some point the groom will be escorted by his entourage to the venue where his wife is. When he arrives, he takes her by the hand and the two groups (male & female) then join together, escorting the couple to their vehicle of transport (this is all done with song and drum beating).
For more information please contact the Islamic Cultural Centre: www.islamireland.ie
