10 Most Weird Marriage Traditions In The World

Marriage is a sacred union and it is celebrated differently around the world. While some traditions are quite common, others are outright bizarre. This article will explore 10 of the world’s most weird marriage traditions that some cultures continue to practice.

1. Marrying a Tree (India)

The tradition of marrying a tree is a Hindu practice known as vat-savitri-vrata. It is mainly followed in Northern India, especially in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. According to the legend, Savitri, a woman who was devoted to her husband Satyavan, was able to bring him back to life by marrying a banyan tree. So, in this ritual, women tie a sacred thread around a tree to honor the legend of Savitri and Satyavan.

2. Marrying a Dog (Nigeria)

The Igbo tribe of Nigeria has the custom of marrying a dog. It is believed that during a ceremony, the bride and groom will exchange marriage vows with a dog and then slaughter the animal. The purpose of this ceremony is to ward off evil spirits and protect the couple from any bad luck.

3. Marrying a Doll (Japan)

In Japan, there is an ancient custom of marrying a doll. This custom is known as Ningyo Shinto and it is believed to bring good luck to the couple. During the ceremony, the bride and groom are required to bow to the doll as if it were a real person. The doll is then placed in a special shrine and is believed to represent the spirit of the couple’s ancestors.

4. Marrying a Corpse (India)

The practice of marrying a corpse is known as sapthapadi or sahagamana. It is mostly practiced in India and is believed to bring happiness and prosperity to the couple. The ritual involves the bride and groom exchanging garlands with a corpse and then taking seven steps around the corpse.

5. Marrying a Banana Tree (India)

In India, there is a custom of marrying a banana tree. In this tradition, the groom ties a sacred thread around the tree as a symbol of his commitment to the bride. This is believed to bring good luck to the couple and to ensure a happy marriage.

6. Marrying a Rock (Greece)

In the Greek islands of Lesbos and Santorini, there is a tradition of marrying a rock. This is known as Petra marriage and it is believed to bring luck and fertility to the couple. During the ceremony, the bride and groom exchange rings and garlands with a specially chosen rock.

7. Marrying a Stranger (Romania)

In Romania, there is an old custom of marrying a stranger. This is known as the Bride-Stealing tradition and it involves the groom kidnapping the bride and taking her to his home. This is believed to bring luck and prosperity to the couple and it is still practiced in some parts of the country.

8. Marrying a Tree Stump (Finland)

In Finland, there is an ancient custom of marrying a tree stump. This is known as the “Marry a Mökki” tradition and it is believed to bring good luck and fertility to the couple. During this ceremony, the couple exchange rings and garlands with a specially chosen tree stump and then make a wish.

9. Marrying a Fish (Nigeria)

The Yoruba tribe of Nigeria has the custom of marrying a fish. This is known as the “Iwa” tradition and it is believed to bring luck and fertility to the couple. During the ceremony, the bride and groom exchange rings and garlands with a specially chosen fish.

10. Marrying a Ghost (China)

In China, there is an old custom of marrying a ghost. This is known as “minghun” and it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple. During the ceremony, the bride and groom exchange rings and garlands with a specially chosen ghost.

These are just some of the world’s most weird marriage traditions. While some of these customs may seem odd, they are still practiced in many parts of the world. Whether these traditions bring luck or not, they are certainly unique and fascinating.