Meaning of Marriage
Marriage us an institution to satisfy physical, psychological, social,
cultural and economic needs of men and women. The primary aim of marriage is the regulation of sexual
activities through a stable relationship, which otherwise may cause to social
disruptions.
Marriage is the process by which a man and a woman come together as a
couple to form a family. This process usually affects father and mother, male
and female parents and their relatives. This process also includes the payment
of the wife's wealth, or wife's price, these prayers are asked to God and the
ancestors for their blessings for the success of the marriage such as children,
long life, happiness and prosperity. This process also includes the exchange of
gifts, hospitality and happiness.
Marriage is one of the most universal social institutions created and
developed by society. It is connected to the family foundation. According to
Gillin and Gillin, “marriage is a socially sanctioned means of establishing a
reproductive family. Westermarck said that marriage is more rooted in the
family than the family in marriage.
Marriage is a social institution with different purposes, roles and forms
in different societies, but it is universal as an institution. According to
Malinowski, "Marriage is a contract for the production and care of
children." According to Robert H Lowie, marriage is a permanent union
between willing partners.
Purpose of Marriage
The purpose of marriage includes the following:
1. Procreation: The main purpose of marriage is to have children.
2. Sexual Satisfaction: People also get married for legal and
legal satisfaction.
3. For Companionship: Couples also get mental satisfaction and
happiness by living together.
4. Growth in Mutual Love and Help: For example; love, financial
support and material exchange also motivate people to get married.
Types of Marriages
The main types of marriage are:
Polygyny
Polygyny is a form of marriage in which a man marries more than one woman at a time. Polygyny is more popular than polyandry but not as universal as monogamy. It is a common practice in ancient civilizations. Meanwhile, it can be found in ancient tribes like the Indian Crows, Baigas and Gonds of India.
Monogamy has two types:
Sororal polygyny
It is a type of marriage where the wives are usually sisters. It is often
called a sororate. The Latin word Soror means sister. When several sisters are
at the same time or can be wives of the same man, this practice is called
sororate. It is often found in high paying tribes.
Non-sororal polygyny
It is a form of marriage between wives who are not brothers rather than
sisters.
Polyandry
Polyandry is the marriage of a woman with multiple men. It is practiced
among the Marquesan Islands of Polynesia, the Bahama Islands of Africa and the
Samoan tribes. In India, among the Tiyan, Toda, Kota, Khasa and Ladakhi Bota
tribes, it is still widespread.
Polyandry is of two types.
Fraternal Polyandry
When several brothers share the same wife, the practice can be described
as fraternal polyandry. This act of being a friend, in fact or in power, of her
husband's brothers is called levirate. It is widespread among the Todas in
India.
Non - Fraternal Polyandry
In this type, there is no need for the husband to have an intimate
relationship before marriage. A wife must be with each husband. As long as a
woman lives with one husband, others have no authority over her. Polyandry has
meaning. It creates the problem of identifying the child's father. Among the
Toda people, one of the husbands goes through what is called the bow ceremony
with the wife and thus becomes the legal father of his child. Among the
Samoans, children at an early age have the freedom to choose their parents for
their permanent residence. The chosen parent will be the father of the
children.
Monogamy
Monogamy is a type of marriage in which a man marries a woman. It is a
common type of marriage in societies around the world. According to
Westermarck, monogamy is human. Monogamy is practiced throughout the world,
allowing marriage and satisfaction to all. It promotes love and affection
between husband and wife. It contributes to family peace, harmony and
happiness.
Monogamous marriages are stable and permanent. It is a common conflict in
polyandrous families with many wives. The marriage of one person pays attention
to the relationship of their children. Women are subjected to low status and
polygamy where their rights are not recognized. In monogamy, women have a
higher social status. There are two types of one woman.
Serial monogamy
In many countries, people are allowed to remarry after the death of their
first spouse or after divorce, but they cannot have more than one spouse at a
time.
Straight monogamy
In chaste marriage, remarriage is not allowed.
Group Marriage
Monogamous marriage refers to two or more married couples with two or
more sons. Here, those who are husband and wife are ordinary wives. Children
are considered as children of the whole group as a whole.
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