Gold in Turkish Weddings and Baby Naming Ceremonies: Traditions and Significance
Turkey, a country rich in cultural traditions, has a unique custom of gifting gold to both the groom and the bride, as well as at baby naming ceremonies. This article delves into these customs and explores their significance in modern times.
Wedding Traditions and Gifts
In Turkey, the practice of gifting gold as part of the marriage agreement is deeply rooted in tradition. Unlike in other cultures, it is not the guests who bring gifts but the elderly family members. These gifts typically take the form of gold rings or other jewelry. There are specific shops dedicated solely to providing such gifts to couples.
Gold is not merely seen as a beautiful accessory but as a valuable asset with inherent wealth preservation qualities. Given the economic uncertainties caused by inflation in Turkey and many other third-world countries, the value of gold is highly appreciated. These gold gifts serve as a starting capital for the couple, with the common practice of selling the gold to fund a new home or improvements to their current home. Additionally, this gold is often used to welcome a new child into the family.
Gold items, including medallions attached to baby wraps, are also an important tradition. These medallions, like the gold jewelry given to the couple, are meant to be saved and utilized for various needs as the child grows. These traditions reflect the cultural value placed on long-term investments in precious metals.
Islamic Influence and Female Gifts
Islamic traditions, prevalent in Turkey, have influenced these customs. The gifting of gold to the bride is referred to as "mahr/mehr" in Islamic jurisprudence, although in local dialects, other terms may be used. The concept of mahr is recognized under Turkish matrimonial laws and is intended to ensure the financial security of the bride.
While many Turkish families today are just as content with silver, particularly if it is gold-plated, the tradition of giving gold remains strong. This preference for gold over other precious metals is driven by cultural and economic factors, reflecting the enduring value placed on gold as a reliable investment.
Modern Trends and Legal Challenges
Modern laws in Turkey, particularly those introduced to discourage marriage, have made the gifting of gold a more challenging responsibility for the groom and his family. The economic pressures these laws exert on newlyweds have increased the burden of providing financial support, often pushing couples to liquidate their gifts to buy or improve their homes.
Though gifting gold to the groom is less common, the tradition of the bride receives gifts from the groom’s family is still prevalent. However, the financial realities of modern life often mean that these gifts are more practical items rather than purely ornamental pieces.
Conclusion
Gold remains a cornerstone of Turkish cultural traditions, serving both aesthetic and practical purposes. From weddings to baby naming ceremonies, the gift of gold reflects the enduring value of precious metals in a changing economic landscape. Whether driven by personal preferences or legal requirements, the tradition of gifting gold continues to hold a special place in Turkish culture.