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| Culture of Sudan |
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Marriage in Sudan is a fundamental social institution governed by Islamic law and Sudanese culture. Three types of marriages are recognized: traditional, civil, and religious. Arranged marriages are common, with parents typically arranging unions. Child marriage is an issue, with some exceptions to the legal age.
Sudanese wedding traditions include the "Qulat al-Khair" where the bride's family is approached, dowry customs, the "Shai El Henna" ceremony, and the Henna night. The contract, the feast of the contract, and the wedding day are central events in the marriage process. Sudanese weddings are marked by customs like the "zaffa," a wedding procession, and traditional food. Traditional attire is significant, with brides wearing "thoobs" and grooms wearing "jalabiyas." Various rituals and customs are observed, such as the Jirtig ritual and the cutting of a silk belt.
Post-wedding rituals include the Zaffa procession and the Waleema reception. Some Sudanese tribes incorporate unique customs, such as whipping during weddings or not allowing the wife to cook or sweep for a specified period.