Do you think love marriage is the only path to happiness? Well, that’s a growing belief in recent times but this has not always been the case. In fact, arranged marriages were and still are incredibly popular across many parts of the world. But what really makes an arranged marriage work? What are its advantages and what should be taken into consideration before making such a life-altering decision?
What are arranged marriages
Arranged marriages, a practice where the families of two individuals choose their spouse, is a concept that is prevalent in certain cultures. This ancient practice is still in place in parts of South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Arranged marriages are often seen as a way of maintaining cultural and religious traditions and ensuring that individuals marry within their societal status and caste.
For instance, in India, the caste system has been the basis of arranged marriages for centuries. Despite the fact that modernisation and globalisation have led to a decline in this practice, arranged marriages remain common in many cultures around the world. While this may seem like a foreign concept to those unfamiliar with arranged marriages, it is an important facet of certain cultural traditions.
Families opinions
Choosing a partner is one of the most significant decisions a person will make in their lifetime. It affects various aspects of one's life, including emotional, physical and financial wellbeing. As such, it is essential to have the support of family members who can offer valuable insights and perspectives. One of the advantages of having families involved in choosing a partner is that they can help evaluate the potential partner's character. They can identify any red flags that may not be immediately noticeable or apparent to the individual.
Additionally, families can provide a broader perspective on the partner's suitability by considering factors such as common values, cultural background and family dynamics. Ultimately, having families involved in this process can help individuals make more informed and objective decisions, thus increasing their chances of finding a fulfilling and lasting relationship.
Avoid unnecessary heartbreak
Arranged marriages have been a longstanding tradition in many cultures, and they continue to be practiced today for various reasons. While the concept may seem outdated and oppressive, there are some benefits to this type of union. For one, arranged marriages can help avoid unnecessary heartbreak and family conflict. In a society where love and relationships can be all-consuming, it can be easy to overlook important qualities like compatibility, values, and goals.
Arranged marriages allow families to play a role in selecting a spouse who is well-suited for their son or daughter, often providing a level of stability and support that may not exist otherwise. This can lead to a more harmonious family dynamic, as well as a more successful marriage that has been built on a foundation of shared values and ideals. While arranged marriages are not for everyone, it is important to recognise their potential benefits and the role they can play in promoting healthy relationships and family units.
Learn about each other
One of the most important aspects of selecting a partner is learning about each other. It's essential to determine whether or not you're compatible with each other. Compatibility plays a big role in the success of a relationship. While dating, be sure to ask your partner about their interests, values and future plans. You can learn a lot about each other by discussing your goals for the future and what type of lifestyle you envision.
Talk openly about your expectations for the relationship and make sure you share similar views on communication, conflict resolution, and other important aspects that affect the longevity of a relationship. By learning about each other during the selection process, you'll save yourself a lot of time and heartbreak in the long run.
Mutual understanding between both parties
Despite the initial fear and uncertainty, arranged marriages can indeed be successful, but only if there is mutual understanding between the two parties involved. Mutual understanding means that both individuals are clear about their expectations and willing to put in the effort to make the relationship work.
Ultimately, mutual understanding is the key to building a loving and long-lasting partnership. While it is easy to dismiss arranged marriages as outdated or oppressive, it is important to acknowledge that with open communication, respect, and empathy, such marriages can be just as fulfilling as those based on love at first sight.
