The Ismaili Wedding Tradition: Bridesmaids And Their Roles

The Ismailis are a denomination of Shi'ism, and while they are not considered Muslims, they do follow some Islamic traditions. One question that is often asked about Islamic weddings is whether bridesmaids are allowed. In Islam, it is permissible for the bride to have someone to help adorn her and accompany her, or a female servant to serve her, as long as it is someone for whom it is permissible to look at the wife, such as a woman or a relative. This tradition is not specific to any one culture or religion, but rather a custom that varies between societies.

In Islam, it is permissible for brides to have bridesmaids

According to Sharia law, if a bride usually has a servant, then the groom is responsible for providing one. The Kashshaaf al-Qinaa’ (5/463) states that if a bride has no servant and needs assistance, she is entitled to one. The servant should be someone who is allowed to see the bride, such as a female servant or a close relative. This tradition is not limited to one culture and can be observed by Muslims of different backgrounds.

Ismailis are a denomination of Shi'ism, and while they are not considered Muslims, they may still incorporate bridesmaids into their wedding ceremonies as it is a cultural practice rather than a religious one. Muslim weddings, including Ismaili weddings, often include gender separation during the reception, with men and women celebrating in different rooms or at separate tables. Having bridesmaids can provide company for the bride and ensure she enjoys her special day surrounded by friends and family.

The presence of bridesmaids can also be helpful during the various pre-wedding and post-wedding ceremonies in Muslim weddings. For example, during the henna night, bridesmaids can join in the festivities, which include drawing patterns on the bride's hands and feet, exchanging gifts, and enjoying delicious food. Bridesmaids can also assist the bride in changing into different outfits, ensuring she looks elegant and transitions smoothly between different looks.

Bridesmaids help the bride get dressed

Although Ismaili bridesmaids are not a religious requirement, it is permissible for the bride to have someone to help adorn her. Bridesmaids can be an incredibly helpful support system for the bride throughout the wedding planning process, and choosing a dress is one of the most important parts of that.

One of the easiest ways for a bridesmaid to help is by simply being present. This could be during the planning and research stage, or accompanying the bride to fittings. Bridesmaids can also help by taking photos of the various dresses the bride tries on, keeping track of her opinions of each, and brainstorming ideas. They can also assist with choosing shoes and accessories, and creating a general timeline for the bride to ensure she's meeting all the crucial deadlines without worrying about last-minute dress details.

On the wedding day, bridesmaids can help the bride get dressed by assisting with her shoes and jewellery, and helping her in and out of cars or down stairs if she needs assistance. They can also fix her dress and veil throughout the day, such as at the top of the aisle or when posing for photos. After the wedding, they can help the bride out of her dress and pack it up so it doesn't get damaged.

They also help with pre-wedding celebrations like henna night

Ismaili weddings are celebrated over four days, with the first day being the Mehndi day. This day is usually hosted for the ladies of both families to get together and celebrate the first day of the wedding. It is a casual event where everyone is dressed comfortably in Indian or Pakistani clothing.

The main attraction of the Mehndi day is the application of henna, a temporary tattoo that ladies of each family put on their hands and/or feet to celebrate the joyous occasion. The darker the henna stain, the more the bride's fiancé loves her. After the henna has been applied, dinner begins, followed by music, dancing, and picture-taking with the bride-to-be. Some ladies may even prepare a choreographed dance or sing songs together.

The Mehndi day is also known as Henna Night, an event steeped in history and myths where the bride's family ceremoniously gives her to the family of the groom. Traditionally, Henna Night is organised at the bride's home the night before the wedding with her girlfriends. It is often celebrated by hanging a flag at the bride's house, accompanied by singing and dancing.

Henna Night has evolved over time and is now popularly known as a bachelorette party, with the groom and his friends also in attendance. While the celebration has changed over the years, the bride-to-be and henna remain at the heart of the tradition.

Bridesmaids are usually needed for the walima ceremony

Bridesmaids are also essential in helping the bride manage her outfit changes, which often occur during the ceremony. They ensure that the bride is dressed elegantly and facilitate a smooth transition from one outfit to another. This assistance is particularly valuable when the bride's gown is adorned with intricate details such as pearls, jewels, and gold.

Moreover, bridesmaids can provide company and support for the bride during pre-wedding celebrations and traditions, such as the henna night. This celebration involves drawing delicate and artful patterns on the bride's hands and feet, exchanging gifts, and partaking in delicious food. The henna night is an excellent opportunity for the bride to bond with her bridesmaids and create lasting memories before the main wedding event.

The presence of bridesmaids also aligns with Islamic traditions, as mentioned in Kashshaaf al-Qinaa’ (5/463). According to this source, if the bride requires assistance due to her high position or other circumstances, she is entitled to have a servant or companion. This tradition was widespread in ancient times and is still practised in some societies today. Therefore, having bridesmaids is not merely a cultural aspect but a matter of custom and tradition that varies across different societies.

The role of a best man in Muslim weddings

The best man's speech is a classic tradition in Muslim weddings, often bringing laughter and joy to the celebration. The best man is expected to be helpful and assist with the wedding planning, gift selection, and ensuring the groom's gifts are secure. They also play a role in welcoming guests to the ceremony and managing the flow of guests during the event, especially when the stage is packed.

In the Nikah ceremony, the best man, known as the Wali, acts on behalf of the bride if there is gender separation. The Wali is usually the father of the bride or a guardian appointed to look after her interests.

Prophet Muhammad described a best man as one who is kind to his wife, consulting and taking her advice in decision-making. This sets an example for all men to emulate, bringing harmony and joy to their marriages.

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