QuestionQUESTION: I have a question about arranged marriages. If someones parents promise them to someone else for them to marry, is the child obligated to marry that person they were "promised to". Is the whole concept of "betrothal" around today, because I know compared to what engagement is today, betrothal involves a ceremony, blessing, etc...is someone who is promised to someone else (at a very early age and possibly before they are born) already betrothed?
ANSWER: Hi K,
In some countries , arranged marriages are the norm and betrothals are more involved than "engagements". In this country, this is rarely done. I personally don't believe in arranged marriages. Certainly if both parties are agreeable to it, then that's up to them. But I don't believe in forcing someone to marry another person that they do not know or love. I think it's a recipe for disaster.
Here is some history on betrothal:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Betrothal
Hope this helps,
Pastor Kim
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QUESTION: OK, so I understand that. But let's say someone's parent's "promise" them to someone else to marry when they are old enough. Is the child obligated to marry to person they are "promised" to? Is that considered betrothal? Are they free to marry whoever they choose
AnswerK,
Again, it's my opinion that you should not have to marry someone against your wishes. It can be a recipe for disaster.
In other countries, however, I do not know what the consequences would be since it involves some religions that can be very harsh.
Some families feel so strongly about it that by disrupting the plans of the betrothal, it disrupts all family relationships.
So, I am not sure if you are asking for youself, or if you are from another country that has a different culture than ours.
Pastor Kim
