Walima
Walima (
Debate: The Time of Walima
Scholars have different views on what the correct time of walima is. The timing varies by culture and opinion; for example some believe it should take place:
- At the time of the marriage contract,
- After the marriage contract and before the consummation of marriage,
- At the time of the wedding procession (bride leaving for her husband’s house). [Ibn Hajar, Fath al-Bari, 9/287]
However, the majority of the scholars (jumhur) are of the opinion that Walima is a meal that is prepared after the marriage has been consummated. This was the practice of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace), as explicitly mentioned in one narration. [3]
Scholars are in agreement that the Walima must be organized, hosted, and paid for by the Groom's side. Furthermore, the ideal length of time is two days long. [4]
Other uses of Walima
While walima is often used to describe a celebration of marriage, it is also held to celebrate the birth of a newborn and the purchase of a new home. Walima in literal translation means "to assemble" and is used to describe an assembly or party celebrating major life events. Walima is essentially interchangeable with American and English terms such as: wedding reception or celebration (when held to celebrate a marriage), birthday party (when held to celebrate the birth of a newborn), or housewarming party (when held to celebrate the purchase of a new home). Similarly, walima is generally interchangeable with other languages/cultures terms that essentially mean to assemble for the purposes of celebrating a marriage, newborn, or new home. While it is an Arabic term, it is not necessarily a term reserved for Muslims per se, as the word simply describes the event that is to be celebrated.
See also
- Islamic marital practices
- Islamic view of marriage
- Nikah
- Nikah urfi
References
- ISBN 0-340-60901-X. Page 179/180.
- ISBN 978-0-19-006203-3.
- ^ sufyan (2010-08-14). "What Are the Rulings of the Marriage Feast (Walima)?". SeekersGuidance. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
- ^ sufyan (2010-08-14). "What Are the Rulings of the Marriage Feast (Walima)?". SeekersGuidance. Retrieved 2024-04-11.