Question

What is the purpose of marriage by service?

Hint:

Marriage by service enables the groom to pay the bride price through labor, demonstrating his worth and ability to support the bride’s family.

Answer 1

The purpose of Marriage by Service is for the groom to work for the bride's family in exchange for the bride. This form of marriage is typically used to offset the high bride price, with the groom performing labor or services for the bride's family as compensation for the marriage.
Step 1: Understanding the labor component of marriage by service.
In societies that practice marriage by service, the groom is required to perform specific duties for the bride's family before marriage. These services could include agricultural work, building, or other forms of labor that are valued by the bride’s family. This practice allows the groom to demonstrate his ability to provide for the bride, while also paying the bride price through work rather than money.
Step 2: Conclusion.
The purpose of marriage by service is to create an equitable exchange, where the groom works to pay off his bride price and prove his worth as a future husband.