The arrangement of an ancient marriage was a fascinating event to watch.
A priestess, an old hobo-looking woman known as babaylan, was consulted to determine the auspicious date for the marriage, necessitating a ritualistic ceremony.
Since it was the groom's family who must offer a bigat kaya, or dowry, to the bride's family, I watched Ayu's Itang humbly but shrewdly negotiate with the chieftain. The haggling and discussion that transpired were rigorous until both families came to an agreement.
To my surprise, I learned that the women of the Tumandok Ati enjoy equal rights! The women were in charge!
It was understood that a dowry given to the bride's family was considered reasonable since women were highly valued in society as they were the givers of life, took on the roles of taking care of the money and trading affairs, and had craftsmanship skills such as sewing, looking after the household, and raising the children. I was thrilled to know that women in this ancient society were considered equals to men and were involved and often consulted in their husbands' affairs!
Ayu was no ordinary girl, and the cost was high. The chieftain knew this and agreed to most of Itang's demands. Which ranged from the number of domestic animals like chickens, pigs, and a carabao to gold and the ownership of an extended land neighboring their garlic baol.
In addition to the dowry, the bride's parents expected the groom to serve them for a specific period of time before marriage, which could range from a few weeks to months or even a year.
In Tokoh's case, it was to be 3 months. Wherein he was expected to help in preparing food, assist in the sowing of the garlic and harvest, and do other chores to prove he was capable of supporting a wife and family.
There was an awkward moment. The chieftain and his wife had to step aside to discuss this matter between themselves. "Tokoh, wolk?" Many listeners laughed, skeptical that Tokoh would even agree to this understanding.
It was the chieftain's wife who finally suggested offering three of their alipins: "The three slaves will do the chores required of him for a year," she offered.
Inang, who was silent the whole time, had the last say. It was common practice that before the marriage ceremony, the parents of both families didn't allow the couple to eat, see, or talk with each other. Pointing out this final agreement brought a smile to Ayu's sullen face, which had remained indifferent throughout this time.
It was the parents who did all the hard-core prenup negotiations. The betrothed couple pretty much remained just bystanders, I thought wryly as I curiously walked around, eavesdropping.
Ayu and Tokoh didn't even say hello to each other!
It all ended with bonfire dancing and festivities, and the chieftain spared no cost to commemorate the upcoming union.
YOU ARE READING
Tales Of The Wisp ~AYU INDAH
FantasíaWhat just happened?" I ask aloud, shaking my head to dispel the fog clouding it. "Pa?" "Honey!" I called out for my husband. "Paaaa!" I shouted, my voice slicing through the stillness, desperation lacing each syllable. Silence hung in the air, a hea...
