The History and Details of Somali Wedding Traditions
A Somalian wedding Via Marius Photography
Historical Evolution of Somali Wedding Traditions
The culture of Somalia is as diverse as its people. Somalia’s people are diverse, strong, and impenetrable. However, a Somali’s family is the most essential aspect of their entire lives.
Traditionally, weddings were a religious and social necessity, uniting not only couples and families but also clans, expanding that clan and their subsequent kinships. Growing a robust family network is imperative because relatives are mutually reliant on one another financially, raising children, and providing support in all aspects of life.
Traditional Somali weddings historically arranged marriages with various ceremonies and religious customs. Modern Somali weddings have adapted to new generations and their ideas, social media, and even the dispersing of their culture to all reaches of the world.
The Distinctive Attire of a Somali Wedding
Somalia is largely an Islamic country, so religion, faith, and traditional values shape and influence the style of clothes that everyone wears. Many bridal fashions in Somali weddings are elevated versions of their daily attire, and some have significant ceremonial importance.
Men’s Attire
In Somalia, traditionally, men wear what is called the macawis. Macawis are similar to a saroung, as they are worn around the waist and wrapped and draped over the upper half of the body.
Men also wear thawbs, also known as thobes, which are white ankle-length garments with long sleeves that are common among Muslims. Thawbs during weddings are much more elaborate and decorated to match the occasion and are usually also worn with pants.
A bisht is usually worn for prestige and is a garment of status and wealth, especially on special occasions.
Women’s Attire
For Somalian women, a dirac paired with a gogorad is the most popular wedding choice. A dirac is usually a colorful and long dress crafted from cotton and sometimes polyester fabrics. The gogorad, or the underskirt, is made of pure silk.
A shawl is another vital item worn during the wedding ceremony. As most of us probably know, a shawl is a simple piece of fabric worn over the shoulders and upper body. For Somalian weddings, shawls usually display flowers.
Gold bangles are another popular and traditional accessory item. Some women forego the bangles in favor of other gold jewelry, like gold earrings or anklets.
An Islamic necklace, Xirsi, can be found on many Somalian brides. This traditional necklace is usually crafted with silver, mini bells, and amber.
Somalia Wedding Customs and Ceremonies
A Somali and British wedding fusion Via Love My Dress
No Alcohol
In the Muslim faith, alcohol is prohibited. Therefore, traditionally, no alcohol should be served during the festivities.
Food and Drinks
In true tradition, the bride arrives to drumming and dancing. Once she has arrived, food and drinks are served to guests to enjoy.
Imam
During Somalian weddings, an Imam typically officiates the ceremony, reads from the Quran, and provides blessings to the couple.
The Reception
Once the ceremony has taken place, the bride walks into the reception hall with all her other women. This includes her mother, sisters, and friends. No one is allowed to sit down until the bride has comfortably taken her seat first. A little while later, the groom enters the reception hall with all his men.
Gifts
Unlike in America, where wedding gifts are often household items, Somali wedding guests usually shower the couple with jewelry, money, and other valuable items.
Seven Days of Wedding Traditions
Somalian wedding festivities and celebrations take place over the course of seven days. The first day is for the wedding ceremony. The following three days are called “Sadexda” where dancing and celebrations occur at the bride’s house. The last three days are titled “Toddobada,” where dancing and celebration take place at the groom’s house.
During this week, men and women do not traditionally celebrate together.
Conclusion
Weddings in Somalia are as diverse as their people. The many approaches to not just their weddings but their proposals, dresses, feasts, dances, and religious ceremonies come with the same pressures of buying outfits, inviting guests, finding venues, and arranging feasts over multiple days.
Some couples stick close to the traditions of their cultures, religions, and families, while others bring in modern styles, views, and even music. Each tells a unique story of family, community, and tradition, but most importantly, unites family and friends with love.
To learn more about other cultural wedding traditions, read our Bahamian Wedding Traditions next.