Marriage in Hinduism

This section explains the nature and purpose of Hindu Marriage. In Hinduism, marriage is regarded as a sacred bond that unites a couple for life. It is not merely a social contract but a divine commitment that plays a crucial role in a person's spiritual and social journey.

The Nature and Purpose of Hindu Marriage

"I promise to never abandon her, whatever happens." – Hindu Wedding Vow

Marriage is considered one of the most important milestones in a Hindu’s life, transitioning an individual from the student stage (Brahmacharya) to the householder stage (Grihastha), where they take on familial and societal responsibilities.

A Hindu Wedding Ceremony

The Hindu wedding ceremony consists of several meaningful rituals that symbolise commitment, love, and duty. These include:

• The Mandap Ceremony – The couple marry under a special canopy known as a Mandap, with a sacred fire (Agni) at its centre, representing divine witness.
• The Kanyadaan (Giving Away the Bride) – The bride’s father places her left hand on the groom’s right hand, signifying the transfer of responsibility.
• The Exchange of Garlands – The couple place floral garlands around each other's necks to symbolise acceptance and mutual respect.
• The Sacred Fire Ritual (Havan) – The couple offer grains and ghee into the sacred fire, invoking blessings for purity, prosperity, and health.
• The Tying of the Knot – The bride’s scarf is tied to the groom’s attire, symbolising their eternal union.
• The Seven Steps (Saptapadi) – The couple walk around the sacred fire seven times, making vows of loyalty, prosperity, and companionship, stepping on a stone at each circuit to symbolise strength and stability in marriage.
• Prayers for Blessings – The ceremony concludes with prayers before Lord Ganesh, seeking a blessed and unbreakable spiritual union.

Hinduism strongly emphasises marriage as a lifelong commitment, an idea reinforced by traditional stories such as Rama and Sita.

"If you are in love, the love should be eternal." – Shrimad Bhagavad Gita

Traditionally, Hindu marriages were arranged within the same varna (social class), but in modern times, love marriages are becoming increasingly accepted.

The Purpose of Marriage in Hinduism

The fundamental purposes of marriage in Hinduism include:

• Procreation and Family Continuation – The primary purpose of marriage is to have children and extend the family lineage.

"Women were created to bear children, and men to carry on the line. That is why there is a joint duty for husband and wife." – Laws of Manu 5

• Spiritual and Social Responsibility – Marriage brings two families together and establishes a framework for social and moral duties.
• Companionship and Support – A husband and wife are expected to support each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Polygamy in Hinduism

Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, is illegal in the UK and is not widely accepted in Hinduism today.

Most Hindus follow monogamy, as mandated by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 in India, which prohibits a Hindu man from having more than one wife. Many Hindus worldwide interpret this as a clear rejection of polygamy.

Divorce and Remarriage in Hinduism

While Hinduism does not openly promote divorce, it is legally permitted in Hindu law. However, divorce is generally discouraged and can carry a social stigma, particularly for women.

• Traditionally, Hindu marriages were viewed as lifelong bonds, with sacred texts discouraging separation.

"O Husband and Wife! Remain here only – do not separate." – Rigveda 10 85:42

• The Bhagavad Gita does not explicitly address divorce, but Hindu teachings stress that marriage is a lifelong duty (dharma). Ending a marriage is seen as breaking this sacred duty, which may impact one's karma and future rebirths.

"That neither by any amount of money or by legal or social repudiation can a woman be released from her vow of being the wife of her husband." – Manu Samhita 9:46

Although divorce is generally discouraged, it is legally allowed under the Hindu Marriage Act, particularly if both partners mutually agree to separate.

Remarriage in Hinduism

Given the emphasis on family and societal stability, Hindus are encouraged to remarry if they are widowed or divorced. Remarriage helps to ensure companionship and support, aligning with the responsibilities of the Grihastha ashrama.

Overall, Hindu marriage is regarded as a sacred and enduring bond, centred on duty, companionship, and spiritual fulfilment.