Jainism

Author(s): N R Guseva
Publisher: Sindu Publications P L

Page 89

THE STRUCTURE OF JAIN COMMUNITY 75
in the 'Laws of Manu' (brahma, daiva, arsha, prajapatya, asura, gandharva, rakshasa and paishacha), the Jains regard only the first four forms as acceptable, because these marriages take place with the consent of the parents of the bridegroom and the bride. The Jains consider remaining four forms of marriage sinful, since the gandharva form of marriage takes place only with mutual consent of the young and the remaining three forms are connected with 'dahej' (bride-price) or with her forceful abduction (rakshasa). However, in ancient times, rakshasa form of marriage was widespread amongst Jains, from which once more one can venture to reflect upon the initial connection of this religion with non-Aryan peoples.
Most often marriages of brahma and prajapatya forms mean handing over of the bride to the bridegroom by her father in the presence of witnesses.
In the south of India, cross-cousin marriage is preferred and the very best form of it is the marriage with the daughter of mother's brother, while in the north cross-cousin marriages are not recommended and not practised.
Until recently the form of marriage, in which there is exchange of sisters was widely prevalent, but with the spread of western education it is almost forgotten, as it is at variance with the interests of girls.10
Amongst almost all the families dowry is given for the daughter but among the lower castes of Jains, the asura forma marriage with 'dahej' (bride-price—this form is often met with also among lower castes of Hindus) is practised.
All marriage negotiations must be confirmed by the panchayat of the caste."
In general outlines the marriage rites of all the Jains are similar.
Usually a month before the marriage, bethrothal takes place. On that day the father of the bride presents gifts to the father of the bridegroom in the presence of witnesses. Soon after this, the father of the bridegroom gives ornaments as gifts to the bride. On the marriage day both the fathers ask all those present whether they agree with the proposed marital union.
10. Ibid., p. 163. 11. Ibid., p. 165.