Traditional Culture Encyclopedia - Traditional festivals - The origins of wedding bride price and dowry

The origins of wedding bride price and dowry

1. Historical origin: bride price and dowry have existed in Chinese weddings for thousands of years, originating from the marriage customs of feudal society. Under the traditional concept, the bride price and dowry are regarded as the respect and gratitude of the man's family to the woman's family, as well as the love and blessing of the woman's family to her daughter.

2. Social controversy: With the development of society, more and more people begin to question the existence and significance of the bride price and dowry, believing that the practice is commercialized, materialistic and overly wealthy, and some even consider it an unreasonable tradition. Some people advocate the abolition of bride price and dowry to reduce the pressure of marriage and economic burden.

3. Geographical differences: The form and amount of bride price and dowry vary in different regions. In some regions, the amount of bride price and dowry is so high that it even exceeds the affordability of some families, while in some regions, the bride price and dowry have been gradually reduced or completely abolished.

4. Marriage concepts: The bride price and dowry reflect people's views and attitudes towards marriage to a certain extent. Some people believe that the bride price and dowry can reflect the man's commitment and responsible attitude towards the woman, and can also make the woman's family feel at ease to marry off their daughter. While some people believe that marriage should not be built on money, the bride price and dowry will only make the marriage become commercialized and utilitarian.

5. Personal choice: Ultimately, it should be up to the parties involved to decide whether bride price and dowry exist, and in what form and amount. Each person has his or her own cultural background, values and life experiences and can make the choice that suits his or her situation. Regardless of whether the bride price and dowry are paid, the happiness of marriage has nothing to do with money; what matters most is the sincerity and trust of both parties.