As those planning an Arab Muslim wedding likely know, these marriage celebrations are lavish and steeped in history and tradition. While the specific customs vary across countries in the Levant, from Lebanon to Palestine, all the way to Morocco, there are certain cultural and religious rituals that remain mostly the same.
Here, we consulted Dr. Main Al-Qudah, a Houston-based sheikh and an assistant professor of Islamic studies, to learn about Arab Muslim wedding traditions, their origins, and their meanings.
The tolbe or tulba is a pre-wedding ceremony where the groom formally asks the bride’s parents for her hand in marriage. If the families give their blessing, a short prayer from the Holy Quran called “Surah Al-Fatiha” is recited by everyone present. This is followed by a presentation of tea, coffee, or cordial and sweets that both families enjoy together.
Katb Al-kitaab
The katb Al-kitaab is the marriage ceremony. During the ceremony, the sheikh lays out the terms of the marriage, and a contract is signed by both parties. Here, it is important for guests to dress conservatively. All guests should cover their arms and legs and women should wear a headscarf.
Mahr
In Islam, the Mahr is the dowry or payment a groom must provide to his bride. The Mahr is presented during the katb Al-kitaab. It symbolizes love, respect, and courtesy towards the woman. It is something valuable she can take with her in the event of divorce.
