Marriage and Divorce - Essay Example

In some civilized societies like the Romans, people would marry for citizenship (Rawson, 56).  Marriage was very important and both partners were subjected to rules that would help keep the marriage peaceful. Marriage was very important and could not be dissolved easily. In most ancient societies, family members and those concerned would mediate on issues before initiating a divorce.  In some cultures, the women had to get permission before divorcing. Some of the reasons for initiating a divorce in classical times would be infidelity, political interests, and loss of wealth and lack of sex. Marriage had a strong and deep meaning. It involved families and not just the individuals getting into the union.

Islamic schools like Sunni and Shi’a view marriage as a sacred institution that should be protected. Marriage was taken as a means to protect people from acts of indecency like adultery (Rapport, 30). Marriage is expected to provide protection, children, status and sexual satisfaction. In these laws, divorce would be initiated by the man or the woman. However, it is important to note that it is very difficult for a woman to be granted a divorce request.  The couples would be given time to settle their differences before the divorce is finalized.  Family members and relatives would be allowed to settle the matter before the divorce is finalized.

It is essential to note the Shi’a are stricter on divorce than the Sunni. In some cases, the Sunni can allow a divorce without passing through the waiting period. This is not acceptable to the Shi’a. This implies that marriage holds a much stronger sacred meaning among the Shi’a.

 In conclusion, the understanding of marriage in Islam and classical times is similar in many ways. In both cases, marriage is a source of sexual satisfaction, protection and children. The importance of marriage is emphasized in Islam and in classical cultures.  In both cases, divorce is not easily granted except in civilized cultures like the Greeks and Romans. It is important to note that in the old time's marriage structure favored men. This is the same case in Islamic schools like Sunni and Shi’a.