10 Surprising Middle Eastern Marriage Traditions

FTD Facts2 minutes read

Middle Eastern weddings involve traditions like Nike, Walima, Tolby, Khutba, Henna, and Zappa, which all play unique roles in the ceremonies and celebrations, with various customs such as blessing, recitation of Surah Fatiha, exchanging rings, henna application, and traditional dance performances. These traditions culminate in a grand farewell to the newlywed couple, making the wedding a significant event that signifies the union of two families and the celebration of love and commitment.

Insights

  • Middle Eastern weddings consist of various traditions such as Nike, Walima, Tolby, Khutba, Henna, and Zappa, each symbolizing different stages and aspects of the marriage process.
  • Zappa, a traditional dance at Middle Eastern weddings, marks the grand entrance of the newlywed couple, with the bride's father playing a significant role in bringing her to the groom, accompanied by music from drummers and special dances by male and female performers.

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Recent questions

  • What are the main traditions in Middle Eastern weddings?

    Nike and Walima

  • What is Tolby in Middle Eastern weddings?

    A private event

  • What is the engagement ceremony called in Middle Eastern weddings?

    Khutba

  • What is the significance of Henna in Middle Eastern weddings?

    A common tradition

  • What is Zappa in Middle Eastern weddings?

    A traditional dance

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Summary

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Middle Eastern Wedding Traditions: A Brief Overview

  • Middle Eastern weddings traditionally involve two main traditions: Nike and Walima, starting with a family meeting and ending with the farewell to the newlywed couple.
  • Tolby, a private event, sees the groom formally asking for the bride's hand after both families agree to the marriage proposal, with blessings given and Surah Fatiha recited, followed by tea and sweets.
  • Engagement, known as Khutba, involves the exchange of rings between the bride and groom, wearing matching color clothing, and resembles a wedding or dinner party arranged by both families.
  • Henna, a common tradition, includes the bride's female friends singing Arabic songs, drawing henna on the bride's hands and feet, and having a henna night similar to a bachelorette party.
  • Zappa, a traditional dance in Middle Eastern weddings, features a grand entrance celebration for the newlywed couple, with the bride's father bringing her to the groom, drummers playing music, and special dances performed by male and female dancers.
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