Arranged Marriages of Muslim - Research Paper Example

There may be indistinct differences between these two marriages given the definitions that one gives to either. Many religions, including Islam, agree on arranged marriage marriages but condemn forced marriages. However, that does not mean that they do not occur. Statistics show that in South Asia alone, the percentage of girls that are forced to get married before they reach 18 is at 48% with Africa having a 42% risk. For the purpose of this research, forced marriages will be defined as that marriage which takes place without the consent, both free and full, of either one or both parties.

In fact, the Roman Catholic offers this as one of the straightforward conditions that can lead to the annulment of marriage. Given that definition, then those statistics are quite worrying. However, on the contrary, arranged marriages are considered as part of a culture and are conducted with the consent of the bride and groom though by another party other than them. Many families may introduce their son or daughter to their future partner and leave it up to them to make the choice or end it altogether.

However, some do not allow the part of denying it and thus expect marriage to follow suit after the introductions have been done. At least 55% of the worlds’ marriages are arranged and the divorce rate is at 4% compared to the other types of marriages. At first, it was considered that marriage come first and love follows. Today, the tables have turned. People believe in love comes first and marriage follows. From a historical point of view, brides were used as a form of royal currency to help unite empires.

They were also used for military and social purposes. There was a need for some to continue their royal lineages such as the Egyptian Pharaohs and the British monarch. The importance of these strategic marriages and their promised rewards made it difficult for the noblewomen to refuse their partners no matter how far the groom came from. The Muslims, on the other hand, has a different twist on the issue of marriage. Dating, for instance, is not and was not a part of their culture as was in other cultures.

Thus, arranged marriages formed the only means to wedded bliss.