Meaning, Types and Customs of Marriage for Primary 1

Marriage

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. define marriage;
2. list types of marriage;
3. describe how marriage is contracted;
4. mention the objects used in marriage.

Meaning of Marriage

Marriage is when a man and a woman agree to live together as husband and wife.

It is a special union where two people promise to love and care for each other. Marriage is important because it helps to form families. Families are the building blocks of every community.

Types of Marriage

In Nigeria, people get married in different ways. These different ways are called types of marriage. Each type has its own customs and traditions.

The main types of marriage include:

1. Traditional Marriage
2. Church Marriage
3. Court Marriage

Traditional Marriage

Traditional marriage is also known as customary marriage. It follows the customs and traditions of a particular community or ethnic group in Nigeria.

In a traditional marriage, the families of the man and woman meet to agree on the marriage. They perform special rites and exchange gifts according to their culture. This type of marriage respects the ways of the ancestors and the community.

Church Marriage

Church marriage is also known as Christian marriage. It takes place in a church and is led by a pastor or priest.

During a church marriage, the man and woman make vows to each other before God and the people present. They usually exchange rings as a sign of their love and commitment to each other.

Court Marriage

Court marriage is also known as statutory marriage. It takes place at a registry office or a court of law.

A court marriage is conducted by a legal official, such as a registrar. The man and woman sign legal documents to show they are married. This type of marriage is recognised by the government and is legally binding.

How Marriage is Contracted (Wedding)

The process of getting married is called a wedding. A wedding is a happy celebration where friends and family gather to witness the union of the man and woman.

In a traditional wedding, the groom’s family visits the bride’s family. They present gifts and formally ask for the bride’s hand in marriage. After agreements and traditional rites are completed, the couple is declared husband and wife according to their culture.

In a church wedding, the bride usually wears a white gown and the groom wears a suit. They walk down the aisle, exchange rings, and say their vows to each other. A pastor or priest blesses their union and prays for them.

In a court wedding, the couple goes to the registry office. They sign official papers in front of witnesses and a registrar. The registrar then declares them legally married, and they receive a marriage certificate.

Objects Used in Marriage

Many special objects are used during weddings in Nigeria. These objects have different meanings and are important for the ceremonies.

Some common objects used in marriage include:

1. Kola Nuts: These are important in traditional marriages, especially in some Nigerian cultures. They are used for blessings, prayers, and to welcome guests.
2. Palm Wine: This is also used in traditional marriages, particularly in the South-Eastern parts of Nigeria. The bride may present palm wine to her groom as part of the ceremony, showing acceptance.
3. Rings: Wedding rings are a symbol of love and commitment. They are exchanged by the bride and groom in church and court marriages, and sometimes in traditional marriages.
4. Bible or Quran: In church weddings, the Bible is used for blessings and readings from God’s word. In some Muslim marriages, the Quran may be present and used for prayers and guidance.
5. Wedding Gown and Suit: The bride wears a beautiful wedding gown and the groom wears a smart suit, especially in church and court weddings. These outfits make the couple look special on their big day.
6. Cake: A wedding cake is a sweet treat shared by the couple and their guests to celebrate their union. Cutting the cake together is a common tradition.

Observe the image below, which shows some objects commonly used in Nigerian weddings.

Identifying these objects helps to understand the different customs and traditions associated with marriage in Nigeria. Each object plays a role in making the wedding ceremony special and meaningful.