When a person gets invited to a wedding where a different religion is practice they may have some questions about how to act and what the wedding involves. When a non Muslim person is invited to a Muslim wedding there are some basic things that they should know so they can fit in.
If the person is a close friend of the bride a couple of days before the wedding they will be invited to a Henna Party. This is mean for close friends and family to pay their respects and protect the bride. A bath is used to cleanse the bride.
Depending on what country the bride and groom or their family is from there may be some different practices at the ceremony. Men and women may have to sit separate from each other. A Meher is a contract that is signed and read during the ceremony as well as a marriage contract known as a Nikah. Two witnesses that are male must sing this contract. After it is signed the bride and the from will share a piece of fruit.
At the end of the ceremony the Fatinah will be read. This is the first chapter in the holy book the Qur’an. After this it is time to party. The reception in a Muslim wedding will be very similar to any other wedding reception. There will be a lot of food, dancing, and celebration. There is usually a large feast with many different types of foods to try. The only difference is there will be no pork at the wedding. Pork is forbidden in Muslims culture. Alcohol is also off limits.
Many non Muslims people may not know what to wear to the wedding. Many Muslims are conservative. A woman should make sure that her legs, the majority of her arms, and her chest is covered. If the wedding is going to be held in a mosque a guest may have to remove their shoes. Jewelry is fine to wear. While there are not as many restrictions for men they should look nice. They should wear attire that they would wear to any other formal event or wedding. While many Muslims are accepting of the western culture it is wise to dress appropriately as not to offend anyone.
When giving the bride and groom a gift there are some things to avoid. Alcohol should not be given. Anything alcohol related included champagne glasses are also frowned upon. A person can get the couple a canvas of Islamic calligraphy that has been framed from them to hang in their home. Household items including cooking supplies are okay to give. Every couple can benefit from a toaster.
This is just some advice to give a non Muslim person who is invited to a Muslim wedding. Some weddings will be more traditional than others but it is best to be prepared. There are some cultural differences. Overall a wedding is still a time for celebration and a time to have fun and celebrate the couple that is getting married.
