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One of the most essential items normally required in most traditional marriages in Africa, is the Dowry. It is the money usually given to the bride’s family by the man who intends to marry the lady. It can also be termed as the bride price. The amount usually paid differs from one country to the other and from one tribe to the other. Some tribes in Nigeria for example do not collect cash as dowry, but insist on cowries or heads of cow as the bride price.
There are many reasons adduced for the payment of dowry in the contemporary African society. Below are seven reasons why this practice is still be recognized in most African countries, especially in Nigeria.
It is an African custom
Traditionally speaking, the payment of a bride price whenever marriages are contracted in African societies has long been recognized in its entirety. It is a practice which has long been accepted by clan heads and traditional rulers alike. The amount to be paid is usually fixed by each community and it may vary sparingly depending on individual families.
It creates stability in traditional marriages
It is a common sight to see brides running away from their marital homes due to pressures from within and without. The payment of dowry however helps to creates a stability within traditional marriages and hence prevents the lady from running away from her new home.
It shows the man is capable
It is generally assumed the payment of the bride price is a sign of the capability of the man who is coming for the hand of the lady. The payment of this important item during traditional marriage ceremonies is a serious test of the man’s financial capability and strength.
Dividend of parents effort on their daughter
Parents of the girl whose dowry is to be paid by the man, believe that they are reaping the dividend of the labor spent in training and taking care of their daughter from infancy to adulthood.
It gives the lady a sense of value
When a girl attains the age of maturity and eventually gets set for marriage, her sense of value is tremendously increased with the payment of bride price. Her pride is boosted with the payment, as she is assumed not to be cheap.
It is an indication that the man is serious about marriage
When a man proposes to a lady and equally informs the parents of the lady, it is assumed to be mere information until the man takes the bold step by formally paying the bride price. Until that singular item is done, it is assumed the man is not serious.
The Holy Bible supports the payment of dowry
When Jacob was about to get married, he was made to work for seven years as a measure of payment for Rachel’s bride price. The payment of bride price is supported by the bible and practiced by the Israelite and other selected tribes.
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