hajati

Hajati refers to a traditional Islamic wedding ceremony practiced by Muslims in the Philippines, particularly among the Maranao people of Lanao del Sur. The term itself originates from the Arabic word "hajj," meaning pilgrimage, and is used to signify the solemnity and sacredness of the marriage contract. The hajati is a multi-day event that involves several customary rituals and blessings, emphasizing the joining of two families as much as the union of the couple.

The ceremony typically begins with the formal proposal and acceptance of the marriage by the families. This is followed by a series of events including the "kasar" or engagement, where gifts are exchanged, and the "pakao" or dowry negotiation. The climax of the hajati is the "Kawing" or wedding ceremony itself, which includes the pronouncement of the marriage by an Islamic cleric (imam) and the exchange of vows. Throughout the festivities, there are also communal meals and traditional music performances. The hajati is not just a religious rite but a significant cultural expression, reinforcing community bonds and family honor. The rituals are often elaborate and can vary slightly depending on the specific traditions of the families involved.