The understanding the significance and evolution of Sin Sod in Thailand
Sin Sod and relationships, unpacking the complexities of Thai marriage customs.
In Thailand, Sin Sod is an ancient tradition that has been practiced for centuries. While in many other Asian countries, it is paid by the wife’s family to the groom, in Thailand, the reverse is true. The groom and his family pay it to the bride's family.
However, attitudes towards Sin Sod have changed in modern times. While the tradition still exists, Thai women are now free to choose their partners, and Thai families can interpret the practice in their way. As a westerner, whether one needs to pay Sin Sod depends on the bride's family's cultural and financial status. Usually, unless both parents are deceased, the answer is yes, for both Thai and foreigner alike.
The amount to be paid varies, depending on several factors such as the social and economic standing of the family, the age and marital status of the woman, her appearance, employment, education, and the groom's financial position. The going rate usually ranges from 100,000 to 5,000000 Thai Baht. However, some families may see foreigners as an opportunity to demand unrealistic amounts.
Negotiating the amount is possible, and even encouraged. For Thai people, the negotiation occurs between parents in a civil and gentle manner, understanding each other's relative social position and the rules of the “game.” However, for foreigners, the negotiation should occur through the bride to be. Talking to friends or brothers to set the price is a bad sign, and the negotiation should be conducted using cultural niceties and manners. The negotiation should not hurt the family's pride, as accepting too little or offering too much would lead to a loss of face.
In Thailand, a promise to marry ceremony typically occurs before the Sin Sod ceremony. During this ceremony, the groom gives a 10% deposit of this. If the groom breaks off the engagement, the bride's family keeps the deposit as compensation. However, if the bride breaks off the engagement, the groom can ask for the deposit back.
In conclusion, while the tradition has been around for centuries and is viewed by some as sexist and outdated, it is still prevalent in modern day Thailand. The women are now free to choose their partners, and Thai families can interpret the practice in their way. Foreigners should expect to pay Sin Sod unless both parents are deceased. The amount of Sin Sod to be paid varies depending on several factors, and negotiation is possible. The ceremony typically occurs before the Sin Sod ceremony, and the groom gives a 10% deposit of the amount.
The tradition of Sin Sod in contemporary marriages.
It's normal where the groom is expected to pay a Sin Sod to the bride's family during the wedding ceremony. This is seen as a way to ensure the financial security of the bride's family and a sign of the groom's commitment to take care of his wife and her family.
In addition to the dowry, the groom is also expected to present an engagement ring to the bride during a ceremony called "Phitee Mun." Although it is not legally required for marriage registration in Thailand, it is an important cultural tradition.
Foreigners may not benefit from the dowry system as they cannot own land or property in Thailand, but they are still expected to pay it. It is recommended to consult a reputable law firm for assistance with marriage registration and prenuptial agreements.
Exploring Sin Sod in Thai culture.
When marrying a Thai woman who has been married before or has a child, some foreigners believe that they don't need to pay a Sin Sod since it may have been paid before or they are already supporting their new wife's child. However, whether or not you need to pay depends on the family and the bride's age.
The word is "sĭn-sàwt," which is often misspelled as "sin sot," leading to an incorrect pronunciation. The word is composed of "sĭn," meaning wealth or property, and "sàwt," meaning to insert or place.
For many affluent families, sin sod has become more of a symbolic tradition in recent years. The money is offered to the bride's family as a sign of respect and often as part of pre wedding celebrations. During the wedding, it is displayed as a way to honor the family and add to the ceremony's traditional elements.
In cases where the couple will receive their money back, the money is still presented at the wedding and then returned to the couple afterward to assist them in starting their new life together. This was the case for me at my own wedding.
It's important not to be tactless and request the money back. If you offer sin sod, it should be done in good faith. If it is to be returned, your in laws will inform you beforehand.
Conclusion.
It's useful information and insights into the culture regarding the practice of giving a bride price, also known as sin sod. The author explains that the amount of sin sod can vary based on various factors such as the age and educational background of the bride, and the financial status of the groom. The article also addresses common misconceptions about sin sod, such as the belief that it absolves a groom from having to pay the bride price if his wife has been previously married or has children.
Sin sod has become more of a ceremonial tradition in recent years, particularly for wealthy families, and is often presented at the wedding as part of the festivities. In cases where the couple will receive their money back, it is still presented at the wedding and then returned to the couple after the wedding to help them start their new life.
This story offers valuable insights into the cultural practices and provides helpful tips for anyone considering getting married to a Thai national or planning to attend a wedding.
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