1.9: Culture (2) الثقافة

Learning Objectives

In this section, you will be able to:

• Describe key marriage customs and traditions in Arab countries and communities.
• Identify similarities and differences in wedding practices across Arab regions.
• Recognize important Arabic cultural words related to marriage, weddings, and family celebrations.

Marriage Customs and Traditions in Arab Countries and Communities:

Arab marriages have a variety of customs, traditions, and practices that differ across various Arab communities and countries. Nevertheless, Arab marriages have some common features and qualities that are frequently present, such as the central role of the family. Typically, parents and extended family members' preferences and approval are sought before a marriage can proceed. In many Arab societies, arranged marriages are still prevalent, where families take the lead in selecting suitable partners for their children. However, the prevalence of arranged marriages is decreasing, particularly in urban areas.

In most Arab countries, Islam is the predominant religion, and Islamic law (الشريعة/Al Sharia) often governs marriage practices. However, there are also significant Christian and other religious minority populations in some Arab countries, each with their marriage customs and traditions, which often have religious influence.

In Islamic marriages, couples usually sign a marriage contract (كتب الكتاب/ktb elktab) that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both spouses. The contract may also contain details such as the dowry (المهر/al mahr) to be given by the groom to the bride, as well as provisions related to financial support, inheritance, and divorce.

Arab weddings are often elaborate and festive occasions, involving multiple days of celebrations with music, dancing, feasting, and other traditional customs. Wedding ceremonies may vary depending on the cultural and religious background of the couple, with some weddings incorporating specific rituals and traditions unique to their community.

In Arab societies, traditional gender roles often affect marriage dynamics, with cultural and religious norms shaping the expectations regarding the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives. While these gender roles are evolving, especially among younger generations, they still play a significant role in shaping marital relationships.

Polygamy is allowed in Islam under certain conditions, although it is not as common as it once was. In many Arab countries, polygamous marriages are legal but subject to restrictions and regulations, such as obtaining permission from existing wives and demonstrating the ability to provide for multiple spouses equally.

In addition to religious ceremonies, couples are often required to register their marriages with the government for legal recognition. The legal requirements for marriage differ from one Arab country to another but may include submitting documentation such as identification cards, birth certificates, and proof of marital status. Like marriages in other cultures, Arab marriages are influenced by social, economic, and cultural changes. Factors such as urbanization, education, economic opportunities, and migration have led to shifts in marriage patterns and dynamics. Younger generations often seek greater autonomy in choosing their spouses and shaping their marital relationships according to their values and aspirations.

To sum up, Arab marriages are characterized by a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and religious influences that reflect the diversity of Arab societies while also evolving in response to changing social, economic, and cultural dynamics.

Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): Muslim Bride and Groom, Pixabay License.

Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): Christian Wedding at a Church, Pixabay License.

Marriage Ceremonies:

Wedding celebrations in Arab countries are rich in tradition, culture, and symbolism, often varying slightly from one country to another due to cultural differences and regional customs. However, some elements are common across many Arab weddings:

• Engagement Ceremony: Before the wedding, there is often an engagement ceremony where the families of the bride and groom come together to officially agree to the union. Rings are exchanged, and sometimes there is a formal signing of the marriage contract.
• Henna Night: A significant pre-wedding ritual is the Henna Night or "Henna Party" where the bride's hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs. This is usually a women-only event where the bride's female friends and family members gather to celebrate.

The video below presents a traditional Henna Night in Morocco (Music only):

• Wedding Attire: The bride traditionally wears a lavish gown, often in white or other vibrant colors, depending on regional customs. The groom typically wears a formal suit or traditional attire.
• Wedding Procession: The wedding ceremony often begins with a procession, where the groom, accompanied by his family and friends, goes to the bride's house to escort her to the wedding venue. Traditional music and dancing may accompany the procession.
• Wedding Ceremony: The wedding ceremony itself varies depending on religious and cultural factors. In Muslim-majority countries, the ceremony may take place in a mosque and involve the recitation of prayers and verses from the Quran. In Christian communities, the ceremony is held in a church and follows Christian traditions.
• Feasting: Arab weddings are known for their elaborate feasts, where guests are served a variety of traditional dishes, including rice, meat, salads, and desserts. Hospitality is highly valued, and hosts go to great lengths to ensure their guests are well-fed and entertained.
• Zaffa (الزفّة): The Zaffa is a lively procession that typically marks the entrance of the newlyweds to the reception venue. It involves traditional music, drumming, and dancing, with the couple at the center of the celebration.
• Dabke (الدبكة): Dabke is a traditional Arab folk dance often performed at weddings and other festive occasions. It involves synchronized dancing, often with participants holding hands and forming a line or circle.
• Gift-Giving: It's customary for guests to bring gifts for the newlyweds, usually in the form of cash or household items to help them start their married life.

These are just some of the common elements of wedding celebrations in Arab countries, but it's important to note that traditions can vary widely between different regions and communities.

Comparison of Wedding Customs in Arab Countries

Similarities across Arab weddings

• Family-centered: Weddings bring together large extended families and show the importance of family ties.
• Community celebration: It’s not just about the bride and groom—neighbors, friends, and whole communities often join in.
• Generosity & hospitality: Elaborate meals and making guests feel honored are universal.
• Henna & music: Most Arab weddings include some form of henna party for the bride and traditional music and dancing.

Differences in Wedding Customs in Arab Countries

Morocco

• The wedding (العرس) can last up to seven days.
• The bride often wears multiple colorful dresses called takchita and changes outfits during the celebrations.
• A special “Amaria” (a decorated chair or platform) is used to carry the bride into the reception.

Tunisia & Algeria (North Africa)

• Brides wear special regional jewelry and headpieces.
• In Tunisia, the “kholta” is a musical group that leads processions, and the bride’s hands are adorned with detailed henna.
• Weddings often include folk songs unique to Berber or Arab tribes.

Egypt

• Weddings often begin with a zaffa (الزفّة)—a musical wedding procession with drums and mizmar (reed instruments).
• The ceremony might include both Islamic marriage signing and a big party at a hotel or club.
• Popular dances include belly dancing (raqs sharqi) and dabke is less common.

Lebanon and Syria

• Lebanese weddings are famous for loud dabke (الدبكة) lines where guests hold hands and stomp rhythmically.
• Fireworks and lavish flower decorations are common.
• Couples often hire famous singers or DJs for large receptions.

Palestine, Jordan

• The Henna night (ليلة الحناء) is big for the bride and women in the family.
• The groom’s family might come to take the bride from her home in a joyful convoy with singing.
• Dabke is central, and many weddings feature traditional songs with lines that tease or praise family members.
• In Palestine and Jordan, you will see traditional Palestinian dresses called الثوب الفلسطيني, famous for their red and black embroidery. Wearing a ثوب shows pride in cultural heritage. It is also a way to honor traditions and look elegant at important family events. Even young people love to wear a traditional ثوب for weddings or festivals.

Saudi Arabia & Gulf countries

• Often separate celebrations for men and women (gender-segregated gatherings).
• The women’s party features dancing, lavish dresses and gold jewelry, while men might have poetry and sword dancing.
• Gifts of perfumes, gold, and dates are traditional.

The Wedding Cheer (Ululation) - زغرودة (Zaghrooda)

In many Arab weddings and happy occasions, you will hear a loud, joyful sound called a زغرودة (zaghrooda). It is a special type of ululation, a high, trilling sound made by moving the tongue quickly from side to side while making a loud voice. Women usually do the زغرودة to show happiness, excitement, and to celebrate good news. It is common at weddings, engagements, and even when someone returns from travel or after a new baby is born.

The زغرودة is not only used in weddings. It can also be heard at other joyful events like graduations and religious festivals. It is a way to say “Mabrook!” (Congratulations!) in a traditional and festive sound.

Examples of when to hear زغرودة:

• At the moment, the bride and groom enter the wedding hall.
• When the marriage contract (كتب الكتاب) is signed.
• During the زفّة (wedding procession).
• At henna parties and when gifts are given.

Watch the video below that explains and presents different types of ululation.

Activities

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