Скачать или смотреть Bride refuses to smile over 30mins as part of Ijaw marriage traditions

The Ijaw bride not smiling during parts of the traditional marriage ceremony carries deep cultural significance:

1. Symbol of Seriousness and Responsibility: Marriage is considered a major life transition, and the bride's unsmiling face symbolizes the seriousness and weight of the commitment she is about to enter. It shows that she understands the gravity of her new role as a wife.


2. Expression of Modesty and Humility: In Ijaw culture (and in many other Nigerian traditions), excessive smiling or showing excitement during traditional rites might be seen as unbecoming or immature. The bride is expected to be modest, reserved, and respectful—especially when she is being presented to the groom's family.


3. Cultural Expectation of Emotional Control: Not smiling is a way of showing emotional discipline and respect for the tradition. It reflects the cultural value placed on composure and inner strength.


4. Testing the Groom’s Readiness: In some variations of the tradition, the bride's reserved demeanor is meant to test the groom's seriousness and willingness to come forward, approach her respectfully, and symbolically "claim" her.



Later in the ceremony—especially after the bride is formally handed over—she will smile, dance, or celebrate, showing joy and acceptance of the marriage.


Credit to: @Africasweetheartwedding
Bride: @tamara_dise