Introduction
Substantial differences in religious practices and beliefs are one definition of diversity in cultures. Religious diversity is recognized by individuals from the most isolated and smallest communities. This topic explores the origin and development of the basic concepts of religious traditions, including marriage. On this topic, Muslims conduct their weddings differently from Christians. Christian and Muslim marriage traditions differ significantly in their history and current traditions, which reflect their diversity.
Comparing Christian and Muslim Marriage Traditions
Personal Experience: Attending an Islamic Wedding
I once attended an Islamic wedding for a friend who invited me to witness their remarkable occasion. In Christian culture, things are done differently, including how they dress and how the event takes place. Wearing clothes corresponding to Muslim religious beliefs is required to keep everything in line with cultural traditions. This ceremony, known as a nikah, occurs in the bride’s absence.
The differences lie in the fact that a Christian wedding should take place with all participants, and a Muslim wedding only with witnesses. The Imam gave a short sermon, and vows were exchanged before the witnesses, and later we joined the bride at their home.
Cultural Differences Between Muslim and Christian Weddings
The historical aspects of the development of Muslim and Christian weddings had significant differences. Muslim marriages have a long history of formation, which began when Muhammad laid down special rules for these procedures (Guirguis & van Doorn-Harder, 2022).
Historical Development of Muslim Marriage Traditions
Muslim customs regarding marriage were heavily affected by Ottoman laws introduced in the 19th century (Guirguis & van Doorn-Harder, 2022). At that time, compulsory state registration of marriages for Muslims was introduced. The Quran and Hadith are necessary codes of laws that describe in detail all the processes that are an integral part of the traditions and beliefs of Muslims.
Humanities Perspective
Applying the humanities prism, this topic touches upon significant differences between the two cultures. For example, such differences manifest in how religions name items of clothing that are unique to them, such as the nikah among Muslims (Malik, 2022). The theme of marriage is essential in cultures as it is a sure way of expressing people (Islam, 2020). In the same way, people’s life experience is determined by how they perceive the wedding event and later their married life differently.
Scientific Method Prism
To study this topic, the scientific method can be used to examine the diversity in the religious traditions of marriage from a sociological point of view. For example, it can be used to determine the number of divorces among Muslim and Christian couples (Ives & Kidwell, 2019). From the point of view of the physical or material world, religiosity can be associated with the application and adherence to various traditions and values inherent in different religions. One of the challenges for an objective consideration of the topic is the possible bias towards one of the religions on the part of different scientists.
Sociological and Social Science Implications
Considering the topic through the prism of social sciences, we can say that it affects different groups of people. First, this may concern Christians and Muslims who plan to marry. This topic can influence interpersonal relationships, as the people affected by it can study the traditions and features of wedding traditions before marriage. One of the essential social structures related to marriage and relationships is the place of marriage registration, and employees are included in the staff of the respective institutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, current research helps to understand that each religion honors its occasions at different times since their beliefs differ from the event’s significance to the people who should attend a special ceremony. However, Islamic and Christian weddings are celebrated almost similarly due to the power of diversity worldwide. People interact socially easily when they appreciate diverse cultures and religions. The world has become a better place for everyone, and no one feels intimidated or discriminated against for their faith.
References
Guirguis, M., & van Doorn-Harder, N. (2022). The Emergence of the Modern Coptic Papacy (vol. 3). American University in Cairo Press.
Islam, M. H. (2020). Tolerance limitation in facing religious diversity based on the teaching of Islam. Nazhruna: Jurnal Pendidikan Islam, 3(1), 1-13. Web.
Ives, C. D., & Kidwell, J. (2019). Religion and social values for sustainability. Sustainability Science, 14, 1355-1362. Web.
Malik, V. (2022). Viswanathapuram Islamic Wedding Rituals. Jamal Academic Research Journal: An Interdisciplinary, 3(1). Web.