Morogoro. The increasing pressure to validate the practice of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan is cited as a factor contributing to the rise in marriages formed during this period.
Concerns are highlighted by the Sheikh of Morogoro, who states that these marriages, often referred to as "funga," tend not to last long.
In light of this reality, it is crucial for those officiating such marriages to prioritize educating couples about the laws governing marriage to prevent premature separations.
The Sheikh emphasized the need for religious leaders conducting marriages during this time to provide couples with guidance regarding marital laws, thus averting rapid divorces following Ramadan.
Many young Muslims enter these marriages driven by the desire to gain legitimacy for their fasting practices. According to the Sheikh, many lack readiness for the responsibilities of marriage, leading to conflicts and ultimately dissolution.
"The role of religious leaders is to assess the readiness of couples; we should not rush into officiating marriages when it is clear that such unions are likely to last only a month," he stated.
"This approach is inconsistent with the commandments of God. Marriage is a significant and serious matter, and should not be treated lightly," he added.
He urged the youth not to marry solely for the purpose of legitimizing their fasting practices, as worship should be a continuous commitment.
"It is inconceivable to engage in illicit relationships for most of the year and then expect a single month of fasting to atone for your sins," he remarked.
The Sheikh called upon Muslims wishing to marry to adhere to divine laws, reminding them that divorce is one of the actions displeasing to God.
A member of the Muslim community expressed the need for the Muslim Supreme Council to organize training for prospective couples on the legal and religious aspects of marriage, along with strategies to tackle challenges.
"Many marriages during Ramadan are influenced by pressure from parents, friends, and relatives, resulting in a lack of genuine affection and preparedness to uphold marital principles," he noted.
A Morogoro resident, who plans to marry on February 21, 2025, shared his intention to marry so that he can observe Ramadan fully committed.
"I’m in a six-month relationship, and as Ramadan approaches, I need to find a legitimate way to ensure I can fast without engaging in prohibited acts, especially without someone to prepare iftar meals," he explained.
Due to the Ramadan period, another local has been taking a month-long leave to allow her partner to marry.
"I am tired of being told to go home during Ramadan so he can fast, but when I suggest he marry me, he claims we are not compatible religiously. This year, I’ve agreed to convert so we can marry, and when Ramadan arrives, we can continue living together," she shared.
A wedding instructor commented that despite her efforts to prepare many brides, numerous marriages encounter difficulties after Ramadan concludes.
"As an experienced marriage instructor, I teach various aspects of marital laws, yet challenges arise when a groom seeks a cook for iftar rather than a committed partner," she stated.
She highlighted that many Islamic marriages during this month are formed more to legitimize fasting than out of love and mutual agreement.
