Arranged Marriage Essay

Marriage is an institute commemorated in most parts of the world. Unlike western societies, where love is a precondition to marriage, in the non-western world it is still not a requirement. In eastern society, they say first comes marriage, and then love. The Islamic community is one of the many cultures that embrace arranged marriages. The Islamic ideas of arranged marriage propose a traditional and sensible approach to marriage.

An arranged marriage is a marriage planned and agreed to by the families or guardians of the bride and groom, unlike a love marriage, also called autonomous marriage, which is completely driven by choice. Decades ago brides and groom would be arranged to be married by their families with little or no say, in some cases the bride and groom would not even meet until the wedding day! However, modern arranged marriages have become more practical and less restricted. Today’s brides and grooms are allowed courting periods, input, and approval.

Arranged marriage isn’t a cruel, concocted attempt, for traditional families to marry off their children, but instead a practical practice in many diverse parts of the world. In addition, arranged marriage is not forced marriage; it does not infringe upon human rights. Furthermore, arranged marriages are easier and less stressful than courtship, or dating, in western society. The Islamic ideas of arranged marriage does not oppress nor violate basic human rights, but rather proposes a pragmatic approach to marriage to ensure a lucrative life and lasting affection in a relationship.

In a cross-cultural study, Raeann Hamon stated, “Until very recently, research on Islamic marriage and family formation was extremely sparse. This lack of research has led to misunderstanding...

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...ell enough to choose a worthy suitor. In addition, from an early age these future brides and grooms are made aware of their responsibilities to their family e.g. have a good marriage, produce children, and uphold the family’s reputation. Furthermore, the young adults being arranged in these marriages want them and couldn’t comprehend it any other way.

In conclusion, arranged marriages are conducted pragmatically, while considering all aspects of life to arrange a marriage that is healthy, functional, and committed. These families take the detailed measures to ensure that the right spouse is found. Similarly, the Muslims getting married want their families to find them a likely suitor. While, lastly, marriage is viewed differently across the world, and arranged marriage, may seem unacceptable and incomprehensible to westerns, is a very sensible approach to marriage.