Differences between African traditional marriage and Christian marriage in the African traditional marriage

African traditional marriage and Christian marriage in Africa have several differences, primarily in their customs, rituals, and beliefs. African traditional marriage is deeply rooted in the cultural practices of the specific ethnic group. It is a communal affair, involving not just the couple but also their extended families. The process often begins with the man’s family visiting the woman’s family to ask for her hand in marriage, a practice known as “knocking on the door.” This is followed by a series of negotiations on the bride price or dowry, which is a significant aspect of African traditional marriages. The dowry, usually in the form of money or goods, is given to the bride’s family as a token of appreciation.

On the other hand, Christian marriage in Africa, while also involving the families of the couple, is more centered on the couple and their commitment to each other before God. The process typically begins with a proposal from the man, followed by an engagement period. The wedding ceremony is held in a church, officiated by a pastor or priest. Unlike in traditional marriages, there is no negotiation of bride price in Christian marriages. Instead, the focus is on the exchange of vows and rings, symbolizing the couple’s commitment to each other.

Another significant difference is the role of religion. In African traditional marriages, the rituals and customs are influenced by the ethnic group’s traditional beliefs, often involving appeasement of ancestors and various gods. For instance, in some cultures, there are rituals to cleanse the couple of bad luck or evil spirits. In contrast, Christian marriages are guided by the teachings of the Bible, with emphasis on love, respect, and mutual submission between the couple. The ceremony often includes prayers, hymn singing, and readings from the Bible.

The concept of polygamy also differs between the two types of marriages. In many African traditional societies, polygamy is accepted and even encouraged. A man can marry more than one wife, and this is often seen as a sign of wealth and status. However, in Christian marriages, monogamy is the norm. The Bible teaches that a man should have only one wife, and this is strictly adhered to in Christian marriages.

The role of the extended family is another area of difference. In African traditional marriages, the extended family plays a significant role in the marriage process, from the negotiation of the bride price to the wedding ceremony. The marriage is seen as a union between two families, rather than just between two individuals. In contrast, while the extended family is also involved in Christian marriages, the focus is more on the couple and their commitment to each other.

Lastly, the issue of divorce varies between the two. In African traditional marriages, divorce is often complicated and involves the return of the bride price. It is also generally frowned upon, as marriage is seen as a lifelong commitment. In contrast, while divorce is also discouraged in Christian marriages, it is allowed in certain circumstances, such as infidelity or abandonment. The process is usually handled by the church and the legal system, rather than by the families.

Other Differences between African traditional marriage and Christian marriage

In the first place, African traditional marriages are typically arranged by the parents of the couple. This is a practice that has been passed down through generations and is still prevalent in many African societies today. The parents, particularly the fathers, have the final say in who their children will marry. On the other hand, Christian marriages in Africa, much like in other parts of the world, are based on the mutual consent of the couple. The couple chooses each other and then seeks the blessings of their parents and the church.

Secondly, the payment of bride price or dowry is a significant aspect of African traditional marriages. The groom, along with his family, is expected to provide gifts and money to the bride’s family as a token of appreciation for raising the bride. This practice is less common in Christian marriages, where the focus is more on the symbolic exchange of vows and rings.

Thirdly, African traditional marriages often involve elaborate rituals and ceremonies that can last for days or even weeks. These ceremonies are deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the specific African community and involve various rites such as fertility rituals, ancestral worship, and communal feasting. In contrast, Christian marriages are usually conducted in a church and follow a standardized liturgy that includes hymns, Bible readings, and a sermon.

Fourthly, polygamy is accepted and even encouraged in many African traditional societies. A man can marry more than one wife, and this is often seen as a sign of wealth and status. However, in Christian marriages, monogamy is the norm. The Christian doctrine advocates for one man, one wife principle, and polygamy is generally frowned upon.

Fifthly, in African traditional marriages, the couple is considered married once the bride price has been paid and the traditional rituals have been performed. There is usually no need for a legal certificate to validate the marriage. However, in Christian marriages, the marriage is not considered complete until the couple has been legally registered and a marriage certificate has been issued.

Lastly, in African traditional marriages, the community plays a significant role in the marriage process. The entire community is usually involved in the marriage ceremonies, and the marriage is seen as a union between two families rather than just two individuals. In Christian marriages, while the community is still important, the focus is more on the union between the two individuals and their commitment to each other before God.

Differences between African traditional marriage and Christian marriage in the African traditional marriage