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Old Thai Marriage customs continue on
By Boonleua Chatree
In the era of globalisation many things have changed. It
depends on the individual how much change they accept. Especially in
everyday life. Customs are a good example of this.
Some things have totally changed, especially Thai customs. But our Thai-ness
is preserved in certain customs.
Marriage customs have been influenced by development. But the Thai marriage
ceremony is still an auspicious thing for couples beginning their life
together. Although material objects are important, feelings are the main
thing. The most important thing about marriage is the ‘bride price’ (dowry)
or engagement gold.
Many readers might wonder why the ‘bride price’ is important. From talking
to wise old people, the bride price is to demonstrate the groom’s financial
security. Can he take care of the bride? It is also to see the groom’s
willingness to gather the necessary things and show his sincerity. If he can
obtain these material things, it show he is serious. The bride’s parents
consider the money to be the price of the mother’s milk. They spent much
money raising the girl, and she will not be with them to help in their old
age, so there must be a payment for this loss.
Bride price in the past consisted of three things. Gold, silver and
rose-gold. This is because these are valuable and auspicious. At present,
gold is the most important, especially solid gold ornaments. It is the heart
of the bride price. The gold must be a matching set consisting of a
necklace, bangle, ring, earrings and belt.
Each piece has a meaning:
Necklace: Means that the girl is engaged or married.
Ring: Worn on the left ring finger as it is near an artery which connects to
the heart.
Bangle: means that the couple will have happiness and wealth.
Earrings: Will keep the man interested in the woman. It will make the bride
ungullible and ambitious.
Belt: Will tie the couple together forever.
The money is requested in even numbers, such as 20,000 baht, 40,000, etc.
The reader will see that these customs are different from any other in the
world and are filled with value and auspiciousness. These customs should be
preserved. A Thai wedding is a joyful time and these customs are still
maintained in all four areas of Thailand; North, South, Isarn and the
Central Plains.
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