Wedding traditions in Islam are vastly different from the traditions of other religions and cultures. Though some may seem strange, a Muslim must know about these rituals, which can help them plan their wedding. Suppose a Muslim also plans on marrying outside of their faith. In that case, many people are surprised by how identical the traditions are and what is expected on the day of an interfaith marriage. There are many similarities between the traditions of Islam and other faiths. Muslim Weddings also includes a lot of preparations and many responsibilities, online islamic wedding cards can help you tackle one of the major responsibility of inviting your guests.
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About Muslim Weddings
Muslim weddings are typically held in mosques, and an Imam leads the services. The most important element of a Muslim wedding is the contract between the husband and wife, Nikaah. A Muslim must meet the same requirements as any other couple to be married. This includes getting two witnesses and signing a marriage contract. Muslims are also required to pronounce the Shahadah before the marriage ceremony, though they may decide that they would like to do this before their wedding date. Other than this, all requirements are the same for Muslim marriage, including a pre-marital physical and emotional examination.
Rituals in Islamic Wedding
The bride and groom must choose someone to sponsor them for their wedding. This can be a family member, friend, or Imam in the case of the bride. The sponsorship is an honour given to someone who will help with the wedding ceremonies, pay for any expenses, and ensure the couple is legally wed. The groom typically wears a white robe on his wedding day and carries a sword to symbolise his strength and status.
Imam Zamin
The Imam Zamin is the person who marries the bride and groom. He oversees the entire wedding and ensures all the necessary procedures are followed. The Imam will also recite verses from the Quran during the wedding. The couple will enter a room where they will sit facing each other on chairs or sofas while the wedding attendees stand around them.
Mangni
The mangni is one of the most important elements of a Muslim wedding. It is the person who will give the dowry to the bride. The mangni will greet the bride and groom with respect and thank them for allowing him to marry them. He will also present them with a gold ring, which symbolises their commitment to each other and their worthiness as husband and wife.
Sanchaq
The sanchaq is the person who escorts the bride and groom home after their wedding. The sanchaq carries a tray with flowers. The keys of the house are usually attached to the rod of the sanchaq, symbolising that they are part of the family. The couple will be seated in a room and given some food and drinks before being escorted home.
Nikah
The nikah is the marriage ceremony. The groom and bride stand before the Imam. The couple will recite the Shahadah, which means they believe in one God before being pronounced husband and wife. They will also be given a ring to symbolise their commitment. The bride wears a dress with gold embroidery while the groom holds a sword in his hand, symbolising his strength.
Arsi
The arsi is a meal given to the couple after their wedding. The groom and bride are seated in the middle of the room while food is brought to them. The groom typically wears a red robe with gold embroidery. After the meal, they customarily have dates served, which they often share with their guests as a sign of sweetness and hospitality.
Mushraf
The mushraf is the celebration or party that follows the nikah, which helps celebrate the newlywed couple. The groom is usually seated with his best friends during this celebration. The guests get up and dance to music, celebrating the couple’s marriage. It is customary for friends to buy gifts for the bride and groom, which they give as a token of respect.
Rukhsat
The rukhsat is when the bride and groom leave each other. This can take place before their wedding or after. It is a way for the couple to affirm their faith in Islam and begin their married life together. The bride will wear a simple white dress, while the groom may wear his red robe.
Walimah
The walimah is a dinner or celebration before the groom’s departure. This can be a small gathering or a large feast with the entire family. It’s customary for the groom to give gifts to his friends and relatives as a sign of respect because he needs their help in caring for his wife.
Though every Muslim wedding is quite different, the seven abovementioned rituals are quite common. These weddings were ordered in the Sunni tradition from largest to smallest, but they are typically done the same way. The bride and groom choose an Imam to perform their service and marry them in a beautiful ceremony. These rituals show how important it is for Muslims to commemorate their faith properly. When performing these rituals, one should be respectful of their religion, culture, and traditions.