According to the Temne marriage culture, being married is strongly desired by adults especially in the rural areas, where existence is very difficult for a single adult. In the traditional Temne marriage system, bride-wealth, comprised of consumer goods and/or money passes from the groom's kin group to the bride's and/or to guardians and is subsequently distributed more widely.
The exchange of bride-wealth and dowry or counter-payment seals the transfer of rights and obligations from the bride's father/guardian; this transfer marks a true marriage from other forms, which may be equally permanent but not as acceptable to the kin groups concerned. The rights transferred are those with respect to domestic service, labor and the income from that labor, children, and sexual services. All major decisions in the Temne marriage system are made by the husband, who may or may not consult his wife.
The polygamous marriage is common amidst the Temnes. Although the occurrence of polygamous marriages has declined presently - especially in urban areas. Nearly four of every ten married men still had two or more wives; and six of every ten married women were part of a polygamous family. in a polygamous married, the husband's first wife becomes the head wife.
The rationale behind polygamous marriage is as a result of religious or societal purposes including stability, security, companionship, economic resources, reproduction, or love.
Finally, giving birth to many children based on the Temne marriage culture, helps in providing a high level man power in carrying out farming activities and house chores.
©️Sabi U Culture
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