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Buddhist matrimonial |
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Buddhism neither encourages nor discourages marriage. It just offers some guidelines for it. While Buddhist practice varies considerably among its various schools, Buddhist matrimonial rites is one of the few concepts that is specifically mentioned in the context of Sila, Buddhist behavior discipline. The fundamental code of Buddhist ethics, the Pancasila or five precepts, contains an reprehension of sexual misconduct. Although what constitutes such misconduct varies from a Buddhist perspective widely depending on the local culture.The Digha Nikaya 31 or Sigalovada Sutta describes the respect that one is expected to give to one's spouse. Buddhist matrimonial rites do not considers marriage as personal and individual, and not as a religious duty. Buddhism does not command a person to be married. It does not force somebody to remain a bachelor.
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Neither it wants one to lead a life of total virtue. It is not written anywhere that Buddhists must produce children or regulate the number of children that they produce. Buddhism allows each individual the freedom to decide for himself all the issues relating to marriage. It might be asked why Buddhist monks do not marry, since there are no laws for or against marriage. The reason that they obviously state is service to mankind. They have chosen a way of life which includes chastity. Buddhist matrimonials have been considered as secular matters in Buddhist countries. The parties took a blessing from monks at the local temple after the civil registration formalities are completed. Although Buddhist monks do not celebrate a marriage ceremony but they do perform religious services in order to bless the couples.
The Buddhist bride has a dress made of brocade called Bhaku. The dress resembles a sarong, only it is to be full length. The bride wears it with a sleeved blouse called Hanju. The hanju is usually made of Chinese silk called khichen. She also wears aspecial coat and a scarf. Some unusual jewellery, Khau is also worn by her. These jewelleries consist of large precious and semi-precious stones for example turquoise, coral, pearl, etc. These jewellery would be worn around the neck and also on the forehead by traditional family girls. The brides also wore special shoes and hat in the earlier days but this is not in fashion these days. The grrom's attire in a Buddhist matrimonial consist of a Bhaku with sleeves.
The bhaku reaches to just above the ankles. The bhaku is generally made of brocade and is worn with a waistcoat called Lajha. He also wears a cap made of brocade and a sash around the waist. Some of the common rites of Buddhist matrimonial are:
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The ceremony is arranged in front of the shrine of Lord Buddha. The entire is set up with candles and flowers. The to-be married couple, the family and the guests all gather in front of the shrine.
- The boy and the girl are asked to light the candles and incense sticks. Then they offer flowers to the image of Buddha.
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