Marriage, considered the foundation of society in many cultures, has been an institution that has evolved over time, taking different forms depending on the region, religious beliefs or social traditions. There are various types of marriages in the world, each with unique characteristics that make them as different from each other as the societies that practice them.
In this article, we will explore the different types of marriages that exist, along with their characteristics and cultural impact.
What is marriage?
Marriage can be defined as a union, generally between two people who wish to share their lives, with legal, social or religious recognition of their bond. Although historically one of marriage's main objectives has been reproduction, today it is also recognized as an institution based on love, mutual commitment and the creation of a common life project.
Etymologically, the word marriage derives from the Latin matrimonium, which is broken down into the words 'matris' (mother) and 'munium' (care). Traditionally, marriage involved a bond between a man and a woman, with the woman playing the maternal role and the man being the protector of the family. However, as societies evolve, so does the concept of marriage.
Throughout history, the characteristics of marriage have been influenced by religious, legal and cultural factors. Today, marriage has broadened its definition to include gender equality, human rights and what many societies consider the basis of a stable home.
History of marriage
The earliest forms of marriage date back to ancient civilizations. From an anthropological perspective, historians suggest that the first forms of marriage arose as a way to guarantee the protection of offspring and secure patrimonial rights. In ancient Rome, for example, marriage was not only a social institution, but also a legal one, with the aim of ensuring the legitimacy of inheritance.
With the expansion of Christianity in Europe during the Middle Ages, marriage acquired a religious dimension that was consolidated at the Council of Trent in the 16th century. From that moment on, marriage as a sacrament within the Catholic Church took on a transcendental value, remaining an indissoluble union.
As civilizations progressed, this concept was expanded and modified based on different religions (Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist) and socioeconomic systems. Marriage, which was initially a tool to ensure social and economic stability, has evolved into an institution that also involves emotional and affective aspects.
types of marriages
There are different types of marriages around the world, which vary according to the legality, religion and customs of different cultures. Below we describe the most common types, their characteristics and the factors that determine them.
1. Civil marriage
Civil marriage is a type of union that is performed before civil authorities and is not governed by any religious ceremony or rite. The laws that regulate civil marriage vary from country to country, but in general, this type of marriage includes equal rights and duties between the spouses. Often, it is necessary to meet certain prerequisites, such as being of legal age, in order to enter into a civil marriage.
Civil marriage is the only type of marriage legally recognised by secular states, although in many cultures it can be complemented by a religious ceremony. This type of marriage is the most inclusive, as it allows for same-sex marriages in countries where equal marriage is legislated.
2. Religious marriage
A religious marriage is a union that follows the precepts of a particular religion. Depending on the faith of the spouses, there may be different rules and requirements for this type of marriage to be valid.
In the Catholic Church, for example, it is considered a sacrament and is indissoluble, meaning that it can only be broken by the death of one of the spouses. The spouses must meet certain requirements, such as being baptized, confirmed, and having received their first communion.
Islamic couples, on the other hand, view marriage as a social and religious contract, where the family plays an important role in structuring and monitoring the agreement.
In Judaism, marriage is also an important institution, where the couple establishes a commitment of fidelity and love under the laws of the Torah. In this religion, the wedding ceremony is a significant rite that includes the signing of a marriage contract, called ketubah.
3. Equal marriage
Same-sex marriage or equal marriage is a legal union between two people of the same sex, which seeks to grant them the same rights and duties as heterosexual couples. In many countries, this type of marriage is recognized by law.
The move towards legalising same-sex marriage is considered one of the most important achievements for the LGBTQ+ community in recent decades. Its acceptance still varies significantly between countries, with some nations having already legislated in favour of it and others where, sadly, it is still criminalised.
4. Polygamous marriage
Polygamous marriage is one in which a person can have more than one spouse at the same time. Within this type of marriage, we can find different subtypes:
- Polygyny: A man has several wives.
- Polyandry: A woman has several husbands.
This type of marriage is still common in some cultures in Africa and Asia. In many Western countries, however, it is illegal, and spouses who practice polygamy can face considerable legal consequences.
5. Marriage of convenience
A marriage of convenience is considered to be one that is entered into for reasons other than sentimental ones, but rather to obtain economic, social or legal benefits. This type of union may be motivated, for example, by obtaining a nationality or improving the social status of one of the parties.
6. Arranged marriage
Arranged marriage is a common tradition in some cultures, especially in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. In this type of marriage, a third party, usually the parents, choose the spouses. Although the spouses may have the option to accept or reject the union, in many cases they do not have real freedom of choice.
7. Child marriage
Child marriage occurs when one or both parties are minors. This type of marriage is more common in certain parts of the world, such as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, where factors such as poverty and cultural traditions play a key role in perpetuating this practice.
Child marriage is widely condemned by the international community as it is considered a violation of the human rights of children, negatively affecting their education, health and well-being.
8. Marriage by kidnapping
Marriage by kidnapping, also known as bride kidnapping, is a practice in which a man kidnaps or abducts a woman with the aim of marrying her without her consent. This is an ancient practice that still exists in some rural areas of countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Ethiopia and certain areas of Latin America.
9. Trial marriage
In some parts of the world, such as certain regions of Latin America, there is a trial marriage, in which couples choose to marry for a certain period of time. During this time, they can evaluate their compatibility before deciding whether they want to formalize their relationship permanently.
10. Common-law couple
Common-law couples are those who decide to live together and form a stable and committed relationship, without having to resort to legally established marriage. This modality is very common in many parts of the world and, in some countries, it is legally recognized.
In Spain, for example, common-law marriage is very popular and can offer many rights found in a civil marriage, such as the right to a widow's pension or joint tax return.
Marital regimes
In many countries, marriage involves not only an emotional agreement, but also an economic one. Depending on local laws, marriages can be established under different matrimonial regimes that regulate how assets and property are handled during and after the marriage.
1. Community property regime
The community property regime implies that all assets and property acquired during the marriage belong equally to both spouses. This regime is common in many countries with a civil law and civil law tradition, including Spain. In the event of the dissolution of the marriage, the assets must be divided equally.
2. Separation of property regime
In this regime, each spouse retains ownership of the assets acquired before and during the marriage. It is a popular option for couples who wish to maintain full control of their individual finances.
3. Participation regime
Under the joint ownership regime, each spouse shares in the increases in wealth obtained during the marriage. Although each party retains ownership of the assets acquired, both are entitled to share in the profits or losses from the gains obtained during the marriage.
These types of regimes offer flexible solutions for couples who wish to organize the financial management of their marriage.
Marriage, in all its forms and modalities, is an institution that continues to evolve to reflect the needs and desires of people in an ever-changing society. Different traditions and marriage regimes show the variety and cultural richness that surrounds this important institution.