Reply #89: Sorry, But That's Just Not True - Religions "Adopted" Marriage Later On [View All]

Women Were "Property" In Some Cultures....
An Athenian marriage ceremony (not celebration) between father or guardian and suitor went something like this:
>I give this woman for the procreation of legitimate children.  
  I accept.  
  >Here is (sum of money, dowry).  
  I'm happy with that.  
This transaction sealed, if not consummated, the marriage.

Some jurists held that a marriage was not legal unless a dowry was paid. This is another widespread usage that lasted until recently in Mediterranean lands. Note that nothing was said about love, and the girl had no say in the matter. Love and choice are very modern additions, even in our own culture.

http://semperegoauditor.typepad.com/ccc/2005/11/marriage_in_his.html


>Until the ninth century marriages were not church involved. Up until the twelfth century there were blessings and prayers during the ceremony and the couple would offer their own prayers. Then priests asked that an agreement be made in their presence. Then religion was added to the ceremony.


http://ks.essortment.com/historyofmarri_rimr.htm