Marriage

Author(s): Natubhai Shah
Publisher: UK Jain Academy

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"There are, therefore, times when a wife should defer to her husband, and times when a husband should defer to his wife, but neither should ever unjustly dominate the other."
The Bahá'í teachings on the equal rights of men and women must be put into practice and the husband and wife must be absolutely faithful and loyal to each other, spiritually as well as physically. Most importantly, they should pray together, especially when they face problems or difficulties.
Apart from the spiritual, physical and intellectual companionship already described, the main purpose of marriage is the rearing of children. This is a very important and difficult task and a great responsibility.
While stating firmly that women must enjoy full equality with men. Bahá'u'lláh's teachings also recognize explicitly the differences between the feminine and masculine natures. Bahá'ís understand accordingly, that mothers have a special role to play in the early education of children - especially during the first few years of life, when the basic values and character of every individual are formed.
Education in general, and Bahá'í education in particular, is of great importance in Bahá'í families. From their earliest years, the children are encouraged to develop the habits of prayer and meditation and to acquire knowledge both intellectual and spiritual.
By understanding Bahá'u'lláh's teaching to eliminate prejudices, differences of race, religion and culture should not be allowed to become a problem in a marriage. The unity of mankind must begin with unity at the family level.
It is crucial to know every aspect of your partner's character.
A. Choosing a Partner
Bahá'u'lláh described marriage as a "fortress for well-being", the normal and healthy state for adults, where sexual feelings can be safely expressed in a spirit of love. Bahá'ís are expected to be completely chaste before marriage and totally faithful within marriage.
According to Bahá'í belief, the couple must be free to choose one another. The couple must:
"Exercise the utmost care to become thoroughly acquainted with the character of the other, that the binding covenant between them may be a tie that will endure forever.
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