Navigating Marriage Laws: Women’s Rights in Matrimony under Saudi Family Law

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Empowering women through knowledge and understanding of Saudi marriage laws.

Introduction

Navigating marriage laws: Women’s Rights in Matrimony under Saudi family law

In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws play a significant role in regulating the rights and responsibilities of individuals within a marital relationship. This article will explore the various aspects of women’s rights in matrimony under Saudi family law, including marriage contracts, divorce, custody, and financial rights. Understanding these laws is crucial for women navigating the complexities of marriage in Saudi Arabia.

Understanding Women’s Rights in Saudi Family Law

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties in a marriage, including women’s rights. Understanding women’s rights in Saudi family law is crucial for women who are entering into marriage or are already married in the Kingdom.

One of the key aspects of women’s rights in Saudi family law is the right to consent to marriage. According to the law, a woman has the right to consent to her marriage, and her guardian cannot force her into a marriage against her will. This is a significant step towards protecting women’s rights and ensuring that they have a say in their own marital affairs. Additionally, the law prohibits marriage contracts that are made without the woman’s consent, further safeguarding women’s rights in marriage.

Another important aspect of women’s rights in Saudi family law is the right to financial support. According to the law, a husband is obligated to provide financial support to his wife and children. This includes providing for their basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, as well as any other necessities that may arise. This provision ensures that women are not left financially vulnerable in a marriage and can rely on their husbands for support.

Furthermore, women in Saudi Arabia have the right to seek divorce under certain circumstances. The law allows women to seek divorce on grounds such as abuse, neglect, or failure to provide financial support. This provision gives women the ability to end a marriage that is no longer viable or safe, without being trapped in a harmful or abusive relationship. Additionally, the law provides for the division of assets and financial support for women and children in the event of divorce, ensuring that women are not left destitute after the dissolution of a marriage.

In recent years, there have been significant reforms in Saudi family law that have further strengthened women’s rights in marriage. One such reform is the abolishment of the guardianship system, which required women to obtain permission from a male guardian for various activities, including marriage. This reform has empowered women to make their own decisions and exercise their rights without the need for a male guardian’s approval.

Despite these advancements, there are still challenges that women face in navigating marriage laws in Saudi Arabia. One such challenge is the lack of awareness and understanding of their rights under the law. Many women may not be aware of their rights or may face barriers in accessing legal resources to enforce their rights. This highlights the importance of education and advocacy to empower women to assert their rights in marriage.

In conclusion, understanding women’s rights in Saudi family law is essential for women in Saudi Arabia to navigate the complexities of marriage laws and ensure that their rights are protected. The law provides important protections for women, including the right to consent to marriage, financial support, and the ability to seek divorce under certain circumstances. While there have been significant reforms to strengthen women’s rights in marriage, there are still challenges that women face in asserting their rights. By raising awareness and advocating for women’s rights, we can continue to empower women in Saudi Arabia to exercise their rights and live fulfilling and empowered lives within the institution of marriage.

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties in a marriage, with a particular focus on the rights of women.

Under Saudi family law, women have certain rights when it comes to marriage. One of the most important rights is the right to consent to marriage. According to Islamic principles, a woman must give her consent before she can be married. This is a fundamental right that ensures that women are not forced into marriage against their will.

In addition to the right to consent, women also have the right to choose their own spouse. While parents may play a role in arranging a marriage, ultimately it is up to the woman to decide if she wants to marry a particular individual. This right gives women agency and autonomy in the decision-making process.

Once a marriage is contracted, women have the right to financial support from their husbands. According to Saudi family law, husbands are required to provide for their wives financially, including housing, food, and clothing. This ensures that women are able to live comfortably and maintain their standard of living.

In the event of a divorce, women also have rights under Saudi family law. One of the most important rights is the right to alimony. Alimony is a form of financial support that a husband must provide to his ex-wife after a divorce. This support is intended to help the woman maintain her standard of living and cover her expenses.

Another important right that women have in the event of a divorce is the right to custody of their children. According to Islamic principles, mothers are considered the primary caregivers for their children and are entitled to custody in the event of a divorce. This right ensures that women are able to maintain a relationship with their children and provide for their well-being.

While Saudi family law provides women with certain rights in marriage, there are still challenges that women face in navigating these laws. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of enforcement of these rights. In some cases, women may struggle to access their rights due to social or cultural barriers.

Another challenge that women face is the lack of awareness of their rights. Many women may not be aware of the rights that they have under Saudi family law, which can make it difficult for them to assert their rights in marriage. Education and awareness-raising efforts are crucial in ensuring that women are able to navigate marriage laws effectively.

Despite these challenges, it is important for women to be aware of their rights under Saudi family law and to assert these rights in marriage. By understanding their rights and advocating for themselves, women can ensure that they are able to live with dignity and autonomy in their marriages. Navigating marriage laws can be complex, but with knowledge and support, women can assert their rights and live fulfilling lives within the institution of marriage.

Matrimonial Rights for Women in Saudi Arabia

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both spouses in a marriage, with a particular focus on the rights of women.

Under Saudi family law, women have certain rights that are designed to protect their interests and ensure their well-being within the marriage. One of the key rights that women have in Saudi Arabia is the right to consent to marriage. Unlike in some other countries where arranged marriages are common, Saudi women have the right to choose their own spouse and must give their consent before a marriage can take place.

Furthermore, Saudi women have the right to enter into a marriage contract that outlines their rights and responsibilities within the marriage. This contract, known as a “nikah,” is a legally binding document that is signed by both parties and serves as a guide for the marriage. The nikah can include provisions related to financial support, custody of children, and other important matters that affect the rights of the wife.

In addition to the right to consent to marriage and enter into a marriage contract, Saudi women also have the right to financial support from their husbands. According to Saudi family law, husbands are required to provide for their wives financially and are responsible for their well-being. This includes providing a home, food, clothing, and other necessities of life.

Moreover, Saudi women have the right to seek divorce under certain circumstances. While divorce is generally discouraged in Islam, Saudi family law recognizes that there are situations where divorce may be necessary. Women have the right to seek divorce if their husbands are abusive, neglectful, or unable to provide for them. In such cases, women can file for divorce through the Saudi courts and seek a dissolution of the marriage.

It is important to note that while Saudi women have certain rights under the law, there are still challenges that they face in practice. Cultural norms and societal expectations can sometimes limit the exercise of these rights, and women may face pressure to conform to traditional gender roles within the marriage. Additionally, the interpretation and application of the law can vary depending on the individual judge or religious authority overseeing the case.

Despite these challenges, there have been significant advancements in women’s rights in Saudi Arabia in recent years. The government has taken steps to empower women and promote gender equality, including granting women the right to drive, attend sporting events, and participate in the workforce. These changes have had a positive impact on women’s rights within the marriage and have helped to improve the overall status of women in Saudi society.

In conclusion, women in Saudi Arabia have certain rights under the Saudi family law that are designed to protect their interests within the marriage. These rights include the right to consent to marriage, enter into a marriage contract, receive financial support from their husbands, and seek divorce under certain circumstances. While there are still challenges that women face in practice, there have been significant advancements in women’s rights in recent years that have helped to improve the overall status of women in Saudi society.

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties in a marriage, including women. While Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in recent years in terms of women’s rights, there are still challenges that women face in the realm of matrimony.

Under Saudi family law, women have the right to consent to marriage. This means that a woman cannot be forced into a marriage against her will. However, in practice, there have been cases where women have been coerced into marriage by their families. In such cases, it is important for women to know their rights and seek legal assistance if necessary.

Another important aspect of Saudi marriage laws is the issue of polygamy. While Islamic law allows men to have up to four wives, Saudi family law requires that a man must treat all of his wives equally. This means that he must provide each wife with the same level of financial support and attention. If a man fails to do so, his wife has the right to seek a divorce.

Divorce is another area where women’s rights are protected under Saudi family law. A woman has the right to seek a divorce if her husband is abusive or neglectful, or if the marriage is no longer viable. In such cases, the court will consider the circumstances of the marriage and make a decision based on what is in the best interests of the parties involved.

In terms of financial rights, Saudi women are entitled to receive a dowry from their husbands upon marriage. This dowry is a form of financial security for the woman in case the marriage ends in divorce. Additionally, women have the right to own property and assets in their own name, separate from their husbands.

Despite these legal protections, there are still challenges that women face in Saudi matrimony. One of the main issues is the lack of enforcement of existing laws. In some cases, women may not be aware of their rights or may face cultural barriers that prevent them from seeking legal assistance. Additionally, there is a lack of support services for women who are experiencing domestic violence or other forms of abuse.

To navigate these challenges, it is important for women to educate themselves about their rights under Saudi family law. Women should also seek support from organizations that provide legal assistance and counseling services. By empowering themselves with knowledge and resources, women can assert their rights and protect themselves in the realm of matrimony.

In conclusion, women in Saudi Arabia have legal protections under the Saudi family law when it comes to marriage. These protections include the right to consent to marriage, the right to seek a divorce, and financial rights such as the dowry and property ownership. However, there are still challenges that women face in terms of enforcement and cultural barriers. By educating themselves and seeking support, women can navigate these challenges and assert their rights in matrimony.

Impact of Family Law on Women’s Rights in Saudi Arabia

Marriage is a sacred institution that plays a significant role in shaping societies and cultures around the world. In Saudi Arabia, marriage is governed by strict laws and regulations outlined in the country’s family law. These laws not only dictate the legal requirements for marriage but also outline the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved. When it comes to women’s rights in matrimony, Saudi family law has seen significant changes in recent years, aimed at improving the status and protection of women within the institution of marriage.

One of the most notable changes in Saudi family law in recent years is the introduction of the Guardianship System. Under this system, women are now able to act as their own guardians in certain legal matters, including marriage. This has given women more autonomy and control over their own lives, allowing them to make decisions about their marital status without the need for a male guardian’s approval. This change has been a significant step forward in promoting women’s rights in Saudi Arabia and has empowered women to take charge of their own destinies.

Another important aspect of Saudi family law that impacts women’s rights in marriage is the issue of consent. In the past, women were often forced into marriages against their will, with little to no say in the matter. However, recent reforms in the law have made it mandatory for both parties to give their full and voluntary consent to the marriage. This has helped to protect women from being forced into unwanted marriages and has given them the right to choose their own partners based on mutual consent.

Furthermore, Saudi family law now includes provisions for the protection of women’s rights in marriage, including the right to financial support and the right to divorce. In the past, women were often left vulnerable in marriage, with little recourse if their husbands failed to provide for them or if they wanted to end the marriage. However, the new laws now require husbands to provide financial support to their wives and children, ensuring that women are not left destitute in the event of divorce or separation.

Additionally, Saudi family law now allows women the right to initiate divorce under certain circumstances, such as abuse or neglect. This has given women the power to end a marriage that is no longer viable or safe, without having to rely on their husbands to grant them a divorce. This change has been crucial in protecting women from abusive or unhappy marriages and has given them the freedom to seek a better life for themselves and their children.

In conclusion, the impact of family law on women’s rights in Saudi Arabia has been significant in recent years. The introduction of the Guardianship System, the requirement for consent in marriage, and the provisions for financial support and divorce have all helped to improve the status and protection of women within the institution of marriage. These changes have empowered women to take control of their own lives and have given them the rights and freedoms they deserve. While there is still progress to be made in ensuring full equality for women in Saudi Arabia, the reforms in family law have been a positive step forward in promoting women’s rights in matrimony.

Challenges Faced by Women in Saudi Marriages

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. While these laws aim to protect the rights of both parties in a marriage, women often face challenges and obstacles when it comes to their rights within the institution of marriage.

One of the main challenges faced by women in Saudi marriages is the issue of consent. According to Islamic law, a woman’s consent is required for a marriage to be valid. However, in practice, many women in Saudi Arabia are forced into marriages against their will. This can lead to a host of problems, including domestic abuse, lack of autonomy, and a sense of powerlessness.

Another challenge faced by women in Saudi marriages is the issue of divorce. In Saudi Arabia, divorce laws heavily favor men, giving them the right to unilaterally divorce their wives without having to provide a reason. This can leave women vulnerable and without any legal recourse in the event of a divorce. Additionally, women often face social stigma and ostracization if they choose to initiate a divorce, making it even more difficult for them to leave an unhappy or abusive marriage.

Furthermore, women in Saudi marriages often face challenges when it comes to their financial rights. In Saudi Arabia, men are typically considered the head of the household and are responsible for providing for their wives and children. However, many women in Saudi marriages are financially dependent on their husbands and may not have access to their own income or assets. This can leave women vulnerable to financial abuse and exploitation, as they may not have the means to support themselves or their children in the event of a divorce or separation.

Despite these challenges, there have been some positive developments in recent years when it comes to women’s rights in Saudi marriages. In 2019, Saudi Arabia passed a series of reforms aimed at improving women’s rights, including granting women the right to travel abroad without the permission of a male guardian and allowing women to register their own marriages and divorces. These reforms have been seen as a step in the right direction towards greater gender equality and empowerment for women in Saudi society.

In conclusion, women in Saudi marriages face a number of challenges when it comes to their rights and autonomy within the institution of marriage. From issues of consent and divorce to financial rights and social stigma, women in Saudi Arabia often find themselves in vulnerable and precarious positions. However, with recent reforms and a growing awareness of women’s rights, there is hope for positive change and greater empowerment for women in Saudi society. It is crucial for the government and society as a whole to continue working towards greater gender equality and protection of women’s rights in marriages.

Recent Reforms in Saudi Family Law

marriage laws in Saudi Arabia have long been a topic of debate and controversy, particularly when it comes to women’s rights within the institution of matrimony. In recent years, however, there have been significant reforms in Saudi family law that have aimed to address some of the longstanding issues surrounding women’s rights in marriage.

One of the key changes that has been made in Saudi family law is the introduction of new regulations that aim to protect women’s rights in marriage. For example, under the new laws, women are now able to stipulate certain conditions in their marriage contracts that can help to protect their rights in the event of a divorce. This includes things like specifying the division of assets or the payment of alimony in the event of a divorce.

Another important change that has been made in Saudi family law is the introduction of new regulations that aim to protect women’s rights in cases of domestic violence. Under the new laws, women who are victims of domestic violence are now able to seek legal protection and support from the authorities. This includes the ability to obtain restraining orders against their abusers and access to support services to help them leave abusive relationships.

In addition to these changes, there have also been reforms in Saudi family law that aim to address issues surrounding child custody and guardianship. Under the new laws, women are now able to retain custody of their children in the event of a divorce, provided that they are deemed to be fit and capable parents. This represents a significant shift from previous laws, which often favored men in custody disputes.

Overall, these reforms represent a significant step forward in terms of protecting women’s rights in marriage under Saudi family law. However, there is still much work to be done in order to ensure that women are able to fully exercise their rights within the institution of matrimony.

One of the key challenges that remains is the issue of enforcement. While the new laws may provide women with greater legal protections, there are still significant cultural and social barriers that can prevent women from fully exercising their rights. This includes things like societal pressure to stay in abusive relationships or the lack of access to legal resources and support services.

In order to address these challenges, it will be important for the Saudi government to continue to work towards raising awareness about women’s rights in marriage and providing women with the support they need to exercise those rights. This includes things like providing access to legal aid services, counseling and support for victims of domestic violence, and education and training programs to help women understand their rights and how to assert them.

Overall, the recent reforms in Saudi family law represent a positive step forward in terms of protecting women’s rights in marriage. However, there is still much work to be done in order to ensure that women are able to fully exercise their rights within the institution of matrimony. By continuing to raise awareness, provide support services, and address cultural and social barriers, the Saudi government can help to create a more equitable and just society for all of its citizens.

Role of Sharia Law in Saudi Matrimonial Rights

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are primarily based on Islamic Sharia law, which plays a significant role in regulating matrimonial rights for both men and women. While Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in recent years to improve women’s rights, there are still challenges that women face in the realm of marriage and family law.

Under Saudi family law, women have certain rights and responsibilities when it comes to marriage. One of the key principles of Sharia law is that marriage is a contract between a man and a woman, with both parties having rights and obligations. Women have the right to consent to marriage, and their consent is required for a marriage to be valid. This is a fundamental right that ensures that women are not forced into marriage against their will.

In addition to the right to consent to marriage, women also have the right to choose their spouse. While arranged marriages are common in Saudi Arabia, women have the right to refuse a proposed marriage and choose a partner of their own choosing. This right gives women agency and autonomy in the decision-making process when it comes to marriage.

Another important aspect of women’s rights in marriage under Saudi family law is the right to financial support. According to Sharia law, men are required to provide financial support to their wives and children. This includes providing for their basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Women also have the right to own property and assets, and any income they earn is considered their own.

Despite these rights, there are still challenges that women face in navigating marriage laws in Saudi Arabia. One of the main challenges is the lack of legal protections for women in cases of divorce. Under Sharia law, men have the right to divorce their wives unilaterally, without the need for a court order. This can leave women vulnerable and without any legal recourse in cases of divorce.

Another challenge that women face is the practice of male guardianship, which gives men authority over women in matters such as marriage, divorce, and travel. While there have been efforts to reform this system in recent years, it still remains a significant barrier to women’s autonomy and independence.

In conclusion, women’s rights in marriage under Saudi family law are governed by Islamic Sharia law, which provides certain rights and protections for women. Women have the right to consent to marriage, choose their spouse, and receive financial support from their husbands. However, there are still challenges that women face in navigating marriage laws, including the lack of legal protections in cases of divorce and the practice of male guardianship. Moving forward, it is important for Saudi Arabia to continue to work towards gender equality and ensure that women have equal rights and protections in marriage and family law.

Marriage is a sacred institution that is governed by laws and regulations in every society. In Saudi Arabia, marriage laws are based on Islamic principles and are regulated by the Saudi family law. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both spouses in a marriage, with a particular focus on protecting the rights of women.

Under Saudi family law, women have the right to consent to marriage. This means that a woman cannot be forced into a marriage against her will. The law also stipulates that a woman must be of legal age to marry, which is typically 18 years old. This provision is in place to protect young girls from being married off at a young age.

In addition to the right to consent to marriage, women in Saudi Arabia also have the right to seek divorce. While divorce is discouraged in Islam, it is allowed under certain circumstances. A woman can seek divorce if her husband is abusive, neglectful, or unable to provide for her. In these cases, a woman can file for divorce through the Saudi courts.

Furthermore, Saudi family law also grants women the right to financial support from their husbands. This includes the right to receive a dowry, which is a payment made by the husband to the wife at the time of marriage. The law also stipulates that a husband must provide for his wife’s financial needs, including housing, food, and clothing.

Another important right granted to women under Saudi family law is the right to custody of their children. In the event of a divorce, the law states that children should be placed in the custody of the mother until they reach a certain age. This provision is in place to ensure that children are cared for and nurtured by their mothers.

While Saudi family law grants women certain rights in marriage, there are still challenges that women face in navigating these laws. One of the main challenges is the lack of awareness and understanding of their rights. Many women in Saudi Arabia are not aware of the rights granted to them under the law, which can make it difficult for them to assert their rights in marriage.

To address this issue, there are initiatives in place to empower women through legal knowledge. These initiatives aim to educate women about their rights under Saudi family law and provide them with the tools and resources they need to navigate the legal system. By empowering women with legal knowledge, they can better advocate for their rights in marriage and ensure that they are treated fairly and justly.

In conclusion, women in Saudi Arabia have certain rights in marriage that are protected under Saudi family law. These rights include the right to consent to marriage, the right to seek divorce, the right to financial support, and the right to custody of their children. While there are challenges that women face in navigating these laws, initiatives are in place to empower women through legal knowledge. By educating women about their rights, they can better advocate for themselves and ensure that their rights are upheld in marriage.

Future Prospects for Women’s Rights in Saudi Family Law

marriage laws in Saudi Arabia have long been a topic of debate and controversy, particularly when it comes to women’s rights within the institution of matrimony. Under Saudi family law, women have historically had limited rights and autonomy when it comes to marriage, divorce, and custody of children. However, recent reforms and changes in the legal landscape have provided hope for future prospects for women’s rights in Saudi family law.

One of the key issues that women have faced in Saudi family law is the requirement for a male guardian, typically a father, brother, or husband, to give permission for a woman to marry. This requirement has been seen as a significant barrier to women’s autonomy and agency in making decisions about their own lives. However, recent changes in the law have allowed women to marry without the permission of a male guardian, giving them greater control over their own destinies.

Another area of concern for women in Saudi family law has been the issue of divorce. In the past, women have had limited rights when it comes to initiating divorce proceedings, with men having the power to unilaterally divorce their wives without their consent. This has left many women vulnerable to being trapped in unhappy or abusive marriages. However, recent reforms have granted women the right to initiate divorce under certain circumstances, such as if their husband is abusive or neglectful.

Custody of children has also been a contentious issue for women in Saudi family law. Traditionally, custody of children has been awarded to the father in the event of divorce, regardless of the best interests of the children or the mother’s ability to care for them. This has often left women in difficult situations, separated from their children and unable to play a meaningful role in their upbringing. However, recent changes in the law have allowed for greater consideration of the best interests of the children when determining custody arrangements, giving women a better chance of being awarded custody.

Despite these positive changes, there is still much work to be done to ensure full equality and rights for women in Saudi family law. While the recent reforms are a step in the right direction, there are still many areas where women’s rights are limited or non-existent. For example, women are still required to have a male guardian’s permission to travel or work in many cases, which can severely restrict their freedom and opportunities.

In order to continue to improve women’s rights in Saudi family law, it will be important for the government to continue to listen to the voices of women and advocates for gender equality. By working together to identify and address the remaining barriers to women’s rights, Saudi Arabia can continue to make progress towards a more just and equitable society for all of its citizens.

Overall, the future prospects for women’s rights in Saudi family law are looking brighter than ever. With recent reforms allowing women greater autonomy in marriage, divorce, and custody matters, there is hope that women will continue to gain more rights and freedoms in the years to come. By continuing to push for gender equality and women’s rights, Saudi Arabia can create a more inclusive and just society for all of its citizens.

Q&A

1. What is the legal age for marriage in Saudi Arabia?
18 years old for both men and women.

2. Can women in Saudi Arabia marry without the permission of a male guardian?
No, women need the permission of a male guardian to marry.

3. Can women in Saudi Arabia initiate divorce proceedings?
Yes, women can initiate divorce proceedings under certain circumstances.

4. Are women entitled to financial support from their husbands during marriage and after divorce?
Yes, women are entitled to financial support from their husbands during marriage and after divorce.

5. Can women in Saudi Arabia have custody of their children after divorce?
Yes, women can have custody of their children after divorce, depending on the circumstances.

6. Are women allowed to work outside the home without their husband’s permission?
Yes, women are allowed to work outside the home without their husband’s permission.

7. Can women in Saudi Arabia travel without the permission of a male guardian?
No, women need the permission of a male guardian to travel.

8. Are women in Saudi Arabia allowed to drive?
Yes, women in Saudi Arabia are now allowed to drive.

9. Can women in Saudi Arabia inherit property from their parents?
Yes, women in Saudi Arabia can inherit property from their parents.

10. Are there any recent changes in Saudi family law that have improved women’s rights in marriage?
Yes, there have been recent changes in Saudi family law that have improved women’s rights in marriage, such as allowing women to drive and granting them more rights in divorce proceedings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating marriage laws and women’s rights in matrimony under Saudi family law can be complex and challenging. While there have been some advancements in recent years to improve women’s rights within marriage, there are still significant limitations and disparities that exist. It is important for women in Saudi Arabia to be aware of their rights and to seek legal assistance when needed to ensure their rights are protected within the confines of marriage.

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