SORORATE MARRIAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Sororate marriage is a specific form of marriage practiced in some cultures and societies. It is a type of marriage arrangement in which a man marries his deceased wife's sister(s). In this arrangement, the husband is obligated to marry his sister-in-law(s) in order to continue fulfilling his marital duties and responsibilities towards his deceased wife's family.
Sororate marriage is primarily practiced in societies where kinship ties and obligations hold significant importance. It often occurs when a woman dies prematurely or becomes incapacitated, leaving her husband and children in need of support from her family. By marrying the sister(s) of his deceased wife, the husband maintains familial ties and ensures that his deceased wife's family remains involved in the lives of their shared children.
This type of marriage arrangement has different variations and customs across different cultures. In some societies, sororate marriages are permanent, while in others they are temporary, allowing the husband the option to dissolve the marriage after a certain period. Some cultures place restrictions on the number of sisters a man can marry, whereas others allow him to marry as many sisters as his deceased wife had.
Sororate marriage plays a pivotal role in maintaining social cohesion and continuity within the extended family. It helps forge and maintain bonds between families, aiding in the economic, social, and emotional well-being of all parties involved.
Etymology of SORORATE MARRIAGE
The word "sororate" originated from the Latin term "soror", which means "sister". The word "marriage" comes from the Old French word "marier" and the Latin word "maritare", both of which mean "to marry or unite". In the context of sororate marriage, the term refers to a custom or practice where a man marries the sister or sisters of his deceased wife. The word thus combines "soror" (sister) and "marriage" to reflect this particular form of marital union.
