As-Salāmu `Alaykum (السلام عليكم):
It amazes me how in an Islamic forum opinions that are not based upon Quran and Sunnah run fluently.
Many of the traditions practiced are based upon tribalism and not Islam.
Sahih Bukhari Volume 9, Book 92, Number 374:
Narrated Anas bin Malik:
That he heard 'Umar speaking while standing on the pulpit of the Prophet in the morning (following the death of the Prophet), when the people had sworn allegiance to Abu Bakr. He said the Tashah-hud before Abu Bakr, and said, "Amma Ba'du (then after) Allah has chosen for his Apostle what is with Him (Paradise) rather than what is with you (the world). This is that Book (Quran) with which Allah guided your Apostle, so stick to it, for then you will be guided on the right path as Allah guided His Apostle with it."
Volume 7, Book 62, Number 67:
Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, "A matron should not be given in marriage except after consulting her; and a virgin should not be given in marriage except after her permission." The people asked, "O Allah's Apostle! How can we know her permission?" He said, "Her silence (indicates her permission)."
Sahih Bukhari Volume 7, Book 62, Number 69:
Narrated Khansa bint Khidam Al-Ansariya:
that her father gave her in marriage when she was a matron and she disliked that marriage. So she went to Allah's Apostle and he declared that marriage invalid.
REVIEW THREAD ON MARRIAGE PROCESS: (Insha Allah)
http://www.islamicboard.com/family-s...e-process.html