Marriage Around the World: Traditions, Laws, and the Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Marriage Around the World: Traditions, Laws, and the Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Marriage is a universal institution that reflects the richness and diversity of cultures around the world. Below, we explore marriage traditions and regulations in various countries, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence in couple relationships.

China

In China, marriage is governed by the *Marriage Law of the People's Republic of China*, which promotes monogamy and gender equality. This legislation prohibits practices such as bigamy, domestic violence, and forced marriages. Family planning is also encouraged. Recently, the government has promoted a "new culture of marriage and motherhood" to encourage families to have up to three children in response to population decline and low fertility rates. These initiatives include awareness campaigns and the promotion of traditional family values.

Japan

Japan's civil Code, known as Minpō, lays out the legal framework for marriage, emphasizing equality between spouses and regulating aspects such as the minimum marriage age and divorce procedures. This legal structure has been adapted to reflect the country's social and cultural changes.

Germany

In Germany, marriage is regulated by the *German Civil Code* (*Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch*), which establishes monogamy and equal rights and duties between spouses. Civil ceremonies are mandatory for a marriage to be legally valid, though couples may choose to have an additional religious ceremony.

Russia

In Russia, marriage is formalized through a civil ceremony at Civil Registry Offices (*ZAGS*). Russian law establishes equality between spouses and allows marriage from the age of 18, with exceptions permitting earlier marriages under appropriate consent.

United States

In the United States, marriage laws vary by state, but a marriage license and an official ceremony are generally required for legal recognition. The minimum age to marry and other specific requirements differ between states.

Chile

In Chile, weddings incorporate various traditions, such as throwing rice at newlyweds to symbolize fertility and prosperity. The bride’s first dance with her father marks her farewell and transition. It is also common for the bride to throw her bouquet among single female guests and the groom to toss the garter among single male guests, symbolizing who might marry next.

France

In France, civil marriage is mandatory and takes place at the town hall (mairie) before any religious ceremony. French law promotes equality between spouses and outlines mutual rights and duties, including fidelity, support, and assistance.

Mexico

Traditional Mexican weddings often take place on summer evenings. During the ceremony, the priest wraps a rosary or a garland of flowers around the couple in a figure-eight shape, symbolizing eternal unity. Additionally, the groom gives the bride 13 gold coins, representing Christ and the Apostles, as a symbol of commitment and prosperity.

Arab Countries

Marriage traditions in Arab countries vary widely, often featuring elaborate ceremonies lasting several days. For example, in Morocco, weddings can extend up to seven days, including rituals such as milk baths and massages for the bride as part of her purification process before the wedding. Traditional music, known as *zaffa*, accompanies nightly celebrations.

Emotional Intelligence in Marriage

Regardless of cultural differences, emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in the quality of marital relationships. The ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions, as well as to understand and empathize with a partner’s feelings, strengthens bonds and facilitates conflict resolution. Practicing open and effective communication, active listening, and empathy are essential components for building a strong and harmonious relationship.

Although marriage traditions and laws vary worldwide, the essence of marriage as a union between two individuals remains constant. Incorporating emotional intelligence into relationships is fundamental for fostering mutual understanding, respect, and enduring love, regardless of cultural context.

Comment: It is not necessary to formalize a relationship through marriage for it to be strong and meaningful. Each couple builds their bond based on their own dynamics, rooted in mutual respect, empathy, commitment, and shared love. This bond is a deeply personal experience that belongs to those within it, beyond the recognition of institutions such as the State, the Church, or even family. In the end, what truly matters is how the individuals in the relationship choose to support each other, grow together, and create an authentic connection that reflects their shared values and desires.