Benin Traditional Marriage

Marriage ceremonies in Benin, according to native law and custom, are very interesting and fun events that also showcase the Benin people's rich customs and traditions. In ancient times, the process of marriage could begin as early as a female child's birth through the process of betrothal; that is, when a female child is born, an interested family betroths her on behalf of their male child by symbolically dropping a log of wood in their compound. When she accepts the proposal, she will be cared for by her family until she is ready to marry.

In modern times, this type of betrothal is rare or never occurs because most people prefer to choose their own husbands or wives rather than rely on their parents. Normally, a young man sees a girl he likes, approaches her, and if she accepts his marriage proposal, she sets a date for him to come and meet her parents to seek their consent and also to begin the next stage of the marital rites:

Introduction

• When he arrives at the girl's father's house, he introduces himself and informs them of his intentions; they then set a date for him to come for an introductory visit with selected members of his immediate and extended family. The purpose of the introduction is for both families to meet and to investigate whether they are related by blood, as it is considered taboo for two people related by blood to marry. They also investigate whether there are any known negative traits in the family.
  

Traditional Marriage

• If all checks come back negative, they can move forward with their marriage plans. The bride's family will hold consultations and send a list of her dowry requirements, as well as a suitable date for the traditional marriage rites to take place. This is traditionally regarded as the "big day."
• The dowry in traditional Benin marriage rites normally includes salt, sugar, honey, palm oil, palm wine, yams, and the sum of twelve pounds and ten shillings (at the time these requirements were documented by the Benin traditional council, this amount equated to 25 and is still paid to this day). Individual families determine the quantity of the other items required. Some may request large quantities, while others may request small quantities.