Traditional Ethiopian Weddings

Wedding ceremonies are practiced in different ways all over the world. The celebration and union of two people is a tradition-rich ceremony that usually involves family. There are many different kinds of traditions that are manifested in different ways by different cultures. The people of Ethiopia celebrate their unions in a manner that is rich in family and food, bringing two families together into a joined family.

Arranged Marriages

Marriages that are arranged are very accepted in Ethiopia as a normal wedding custom. In urban areas, this practice is becoming much less accepted. Proposals happen when the groom's elders travel to the bride's elders and request the woman's hand in marriage for the man.

Ceremony

Both parties elders decide where the ceremony will take place. Food is very important in Ethiopian wedding ceremonies, and both families are involved in preparing elaborate spreads of food, beer and wine. Meat dishes are especially popular.

Western Influence

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church has a ritual that both parties must promise to never divorce. This practice has become more and more rare as western traditions have been introduced. In urban areas, western wedding dresses and tuxedos are worn.

Family Unit

The nuclear unit in Ethiopia contains a lot of people. Usually, after the wedding, the wed couple moves in with family. The oldest male is the patriarch, and is seen as the head of the household. Not all men are equal, and the newly wed man is not the patriarch in most cases. Women are in charge of domestic duties and raising children.

The Dowry

The man's family customarily presents the woman's family with a dowry, which can contain anything that is available to them including livestock, money or other valuable objects.

References

• Every Culture: Culture of Ethiopia