Information on Hindu Marriages
In Hinduism, the third largest religion in the world, marriage represents not only the union of two individuals but two families. Unless a person has chosen a path of renunciation, he or she is expected to marry. Marriage, as viewed in Hinduism, is both a duty and a sacrament.
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Beliefs
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Marriage is regarded as a bonding of souls for the purpose of spiritual growth. In accordance with the Hindu belief in reincarnation, the marriage relationship encompasses not only this life but seven or more lifetimes and functions as a means of mutual salvation and family perpetuation.
Rituals
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Traditional Hindu marriages are arranged by the families of the bride and groom through an extensive process of checking natal charts and agreeing on a dowry amount. The wedding ceremony involves feasting and chanting of mantras. The bride and groom take their vows, then they take seven steps together, each of which symbolizes an important aspect of the journey they are beginning.
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Change
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While arranged marriages remain common, love marriages are increasing. Such marriages may prosper, or they may run into a great deal of difficulty, depending on the castes of the young people involved and the attitudes of their families and elders toward the union.
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References
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