Therefore, for all Kurds the preferred form of marriage is with patrilateral cousins (the children of siblings of the same sex, FBD/FBS—fathers brothers daughter and son) while cross-cousin (the children of the siblings of opposite sex, FZD/FZS—fathers sisters daughter and son) marriages are rarely practiced.

How do Kurds get married?

Kurdish marriages are arranged between the families of the bride and groom. Marriage negotiations are first carried out between the women of the two families, and then finalized by the men when a marriage settlement is drawn up. It states the size of the bride-wealth and how it will be used.

What countries can you marry your cousin?

In fact, in a number of countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Yemen and in the Palestinian Territories, paternal parallel cousin marriage is the preferred form of consanguineous marriage.

What is Kurdish family?

A traditional Kurdish family is a peasant family. A Kurdish household is a patrilineal lineage, assembled around the male head of the family. Such a lineage depends on mutual support and defense while living in the same ancestral village.

Why do Kurdish brides wear red?

A red ribbon tied around the brides waist is a symbol of her virginity. In the past, the absence of a maidenhood belt resulted in local gossip, but in modern towns and cities, the bride will choose if she wants to wear it.