Marriage

Marriage refers to a recognised union between people. It can be recognised in different ways (legally or religiously). Marriage creates rights and obligations between people and between their families.

Marriages often involve a wedding ceremony of some kind. A religious marriage ceremony is performed by a religious institution.

A contract of marriage in Islam is called a Nikah and may be written or verbal. For many Muslims, marriage is very important as a source of happiness, foundation for family and community life, and support for one’s faith.

Many of the largest Christian groups regard marriage as a sacrament.

A Jewish marriage is understood to be a union sanctified by G-d. Traditionally, Judaism views marriage as the basis of companionship and vice versa. For many Jews, marriage is a complex issue. Not all groups recognise the marriages of others. There are debates about marrying outside of the Jewish community.

A legal marriage is when the state recognises a marriage. It may involve a ceremony and/or paperwork. It also gives the married people certain rights according to the laws of the country they live in. In all three religions, and in different legal systems, there are rules and debates about who can get married.

This photograph shows a Jewish wedding ceremony in Israel.