Staunton spectator and vindicator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1896-1916, 1896-12-23
THE JBPAaERE WEDDING CEREMONY

AoMoRI,- JAPAN. Nov. 21st, 1896.
Every country. whether barbarout
or civilized, has it's own peculiar forn
of solemnizing the marriage vows
1t may be the superstitious incanta
tions of the South Sea islander. or the
wierd dance of the American Indian
or the woman may be bound to a life
of wretchedness by the clasp of jewel
ed chain about her neck, as is often the
case in India; or the full assurance ol
faith and constancy may be plighted
in the presence of God.
Marriage in japan is legalized by
charging the name of the woman, at
her Office of registration, to that Of her
Husband, unless the man is adopted in
to her family. in which Use he takes
the brides name.
There are many ceremonies connect
ed with the nuptials in Japan.
One of the most important person
ages in the matter is the 910kodo, or
GO between, who makes all the arrange
ments, even to finding suitable mate
for his friend, and he becomes sort of
guardian of the twain throughout their
welded life.
She is chosen from among mutual
friends, and is usually of the same
family rank as the contracting parties.
Although no stipulated sum is given
him for his services, he expects many
valuable presents. His duties are often
quite arduous, for he must chose a
mate of the same family rank, and the
family history must be thoroughly in
vestigated. AS soon as an eligible per
son has been fixed upon, the aaGkodo
arranges for a meeting; which may
take place at the house of a mutual
friend, but more frequently is arranged
for at a temple or theatre, or sometimes
an excursion is made to some place
noted for its beautiful scenery. Some
times they go to see the cherry bios
SONS together. II both parties are
agreed, the go between Immediately at
tends to the yuino agreement to the
contract) which is in the form of an
exchange Of presents, usually consist
ing of wadded silk garment, or fine
fish, often also kind Of edible seaweed
is included.
This yuino, has meaning similar to
tbof of tba oproporn r;pr ord ~ not
legally binding, is made virtually so
by custom.
The go between never carries these
presents but sends them by trusted
servant, who is we'll feasted at the
house of the recipient.
One of the most momentous ques-
tions is, when shall the wedding take
place?
II an auspicious day be not chosen,
who would dare insure the new couple
against the ills that would surely be-
fall them.
One must not be married on the day
of the month on which a grandfather
or grandmother died, and each month
has at least one unlucky day.
If possible one of three very auspic-
ious day is fixed upon. chosen from
calendar made to conform to the lunar
month, viz the teaasha 71ich5 or ''for-
giveness of sins DAY." the lennon nichi,
or "bestowal of blessing day." and the
gattaku machS. or 'giving- of prosperity
day"
The engagement is announced by
giving a feast to the near relations, at
which the yuiaao presents are display
ed, and the whole matter is talked
over, for this is not personal. but a
family matter.
The parents, if they truly love their
daughter. will not fail to give her the
following thirteen rules:
l. You are no longer our child, but
must obey your father in law and
mother-in law.
2. You must be perfectly obedient to
your husband, for obedience is a great
virtue.
8. Be kind to your mother 10 law and
sisters-in law.
4. Do not be jealous of your husband,
for that will make him angry.
5. Do not talk much, do not gossip
to your husband, and never tell him a
lie.
6. Get up early, and stay up late, and
never lie down in the daytime.
Z. Never go alone into crowded
street till you are fifty years of age.
s. Do not consult the fortune tellers.
8. BE a good and saving ghousekeeper.
10. Do not associate with other men,
not even if they are your relations.
II. Dress modestly.
12. Do not boast of your family
wealth or position.
13. Greet your servants kindly at all