Marriage

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

Page 17

Their purpose must be this: to become loving companions and comrades and at one with each other for time and eternity..."
Once decided, the couple must then obtain parental approval before they can marry. This ensures that they will have the support of both of their families, which is particularly helpful in times of trouble and also preserves the unity of the family. It also helps to ensure that their choice is the right one. They should realize that they must never refuse permission simply because of differences of, for instance, race, religion or background. When the parents give their wholehearted support to a marriage, it has a much greater chance of success.
B. Engagement ceremony
This is left to the couple's choice and can reflect the culture of the area or of the family. Bahá'í couples, however, are encouraged to have shorter engagements, often limited to three months. This is left to the discretion of the local administration (LSA) and guidance should be requested from them.
C. Pre-marriage rituals
There are no set pre-marriage rituals. This is left to the couple's choice and can reflect the culture of the area or of the families.
D. Preparation for the wedding
Preparation for the wedding is left to the couple's choice and can reflect the culture of the area or of the family. Couples are encouraged to set a foundation for their spiritual union by questioning one another on pertinent issues and by praying for divine guidance.
E. Civil marriage
In places where the Bahá'í marriage has no legal standing, the civil marriage ceremony should take place on the same day as the Bahá'í marriage ceremony. Your Local Spiritual Assembly
(Bahá'í community) will be able to advise you.
F. The Marriage Ceremony (wedding ritual)
Once parental permission is obtained, the marriage should then ideally take place within 3 months. A Bahá'í marriage ceremony is prerequisite to Bahá'í marriage whether or not it is