Category: Marriage

Is the stereotype that all Singaporeans are to get married and have kids natured or nurtured? I believe it is nurtured.Singapore is a harmonious society with different religions and ethnicity. Though there are different pressures and standards to adhere to from things like education to career, there is one most if not all can relate to which is the pressure to get married and have kids. Though subtle, this is obvious for young adults receiving questions and remarks from relatives during festivities and government initiatives. Focusing on the ethnic groups in Singapore, it will give us a broad understanding to the general Singapore society.In this paper, I am exploring the stereotype to see if all Singaporeans are pressured to follow the route to get married and have kids and to see where this pressure is coming from –whether it is nature or nurture. First of all, we need to understand that there is a certain pressure coming in for young adults to get married.

The median age of marriage is about 28 years old for women and 30 years old for men. (“Median Age at First Marriage”, 2019) This pressure that they are facing is known as the “Shelf-life” they have before they “expire”. It is often seen more prominent in women as they are considered more based on their physical attractiveness than men are. As the customary of beauty privileges youthful looks, judging women by her appearances constructs a cultural “double standard of aging”. (England and McClintock, 2009)The Chinese people root themselves with the tradition of keeping the family line going. The structure of the Chinese family is built on the concept of filial piety, also expressed by the character, xiao“孝”. The upper part of the character means old while the bottom part means son. It has a wide variation of interpretations but the meaning behind the character, xiao, means that the elderly is to be supported by the younger generation as the young are burdened or oppressed by the old. The purpose is to the continuation of the family line. (Teon, 2016)

The Chinese people in Singapore still follow the Confucian organization, that marriage and children are essential. (Singaporean Culture) Family is an integral part of confusion value and since the Chinese people follow the Confucius values, family is an important part of Chinese tradition. Marriage would then be pressured upon from the parents to have kids and keep the family line going. (“Almost seven in 10 Chinese feel pressured by family to marry”, 2019)The Malay community in Singapore likewise faces similar pressure to get married. This pressure stems largely from familial and religious expectations where marriage is typically deemed to ease the family’s financial burdens. Additionally, marriage in the eye of the Islamic religion is highly regarded as a necessity for every Muslim individual. According to a demographic study commissioned by AMPwith the intention to analyze population trends of Malay population populace in Singapore, it is evident that a typical Malay household size is higher in comparison to other races. (“Demographic study on Singapore Malays”, 2019)With this, Malay families hope to reduce financial burdenson having to provide for so many family members, by marrying their children off.(“The dilemma of Malay Marriages”, 2017)Additionally, an introduction of a new member to the family would also mean that there is an extra source of financial income to aid in boosting the family’s overall financial income. Therefore, marriage seems like a viable solution to aid in lessening the strain on financial stress for a typically large Malay household unit, as well as a providence of an extra source of income for the family in which one is married into.

Apart from financial reasons, the Islamic religion sees Marriage as a foundation and necessity that every Muslim are expected to adhere to.(AI, 2012)It is even “highly valued and regarded as being half of one’s faith” according to the words of Muhammad, which serves to show that Marriage is of utmost importance as Faith is to the Muslims. With that being said, Marriage is evidently important to the Muslim community which could possibly explain the pressure for one to have to get married.The Indian committee is pressuring Indian individuals to get married fearing the consequences that they will be seen as social and moral aberrations not only by state but the family and Indian community as well. This can be seen by Ramdas’swork where individuals that are single are normally viewed as being too picky or something might be ‘wrong’ with them. (Ramdas, 2012) Indian women who are educated in particular face the social responsibility and pressure to find the suitable man that would ensure the survival of the right Singaporeans family.The religion of the individual also affect the stereotype as the religious side of Hinduism states that individuals ought to get married and have kids as a rite of spiritual growth. It is thus the duty of Hindu parents to see that their daughter is married off. The religion of Christianity states in the bible that you are to procreateand I quote that we are are to “be fruitful and increase in number” according to Genesis1:28. It was the first command given and it states that procreation is the basic purposes of marriage.On the other hand, the government also has got plenty of initiatives to persuade people into getting married and have kids. Things like housing priorities, baby bonuses, and employment leaves. (Cheam, 2013) Married couples who are thinking to purchase their initial HDB flats would receive priority in allocation of new flats. A larger sum of baby bonuses, as well as Medisave allowance, will be given to the family and baby. Married couples get paid paternity leave after delivery of baby while working mothers who adopt gets four weeks of government-paid adoption leave.

The government also provides financial support for conception and delivery as well.As the government is spending close to $2 billion a year, this will only benefit the married couples, parents who are keen on adopting, and mothers who want to conceive. Non-married couples are then marginalized. It will be in no sense benefit the singles who other than not benefiting from the initiatives from the government but will have to wait till 35 years old if they would want to purchase their HDB flats. On top of the already long waiting time, they would still need at least 2 names for to purchase the HDB flats.However, while this is vastly information focusing on the nurtured side of things, we cannot deny that there are cases of nature activities. Getting married and having a family provides contentmentfor individuals, as well as being able to provide for the family. (Tan, 2012) Thoughthis thinking may be changing, they state that they are still chasing the same thing essentially. Based on the above information, it shows how society socially engineers individuals into thinking that marriage is a natural progression.If you do not get married but have plans on starting a family or purchasing your initial HDB flats, you are losing out on all the resources that the government are giving. You may also feel disadvantaged at the fact that you might have to delay your plans on owning your house at an older age. Even though the social institution pressure individuals into adopting this stereotype, there is still options available for individuals to make independent choices, albeit these choices are at a disadvantage. But nonetheless, the stereotype exists as a result of this pressures and thus I feel that this stereotype is nurtured.

Marriage has been a cornerstone of society since the dawn of civilization. It is an institution that has been around for centuries and still exists today. But, is it still relevant in today’s society? With more and more people opting to remain single, is marriage still a legitimate option for many people? In me essay, I would like to explore the pros and cons of the marriage.

The Pros of Marriage

Beyond love and companionship, marriage offers numerous advantages. Legal protections, including inheritance rights and tax breaks, are available to married couples. Additionally, married couples have access to medical insurance benefits and financial perks that are not afforded to unmarried individuals or couples cohabiting. In times of distress or difficulty, married couples can provide emotional support to one another, which can be particularly crucial when family members are unable to offer assistance or guidance.

But a successful marriage is not something that happens by chance. It takes work and dedication to build a strong and lasting connection with your spouse. For couples who have been together for years, the idea of keeping the spark alive may seem far-fetched; however, it is important to remember that lasting love does not happen by accident. Creating a strong bond with your partner takes commitment and dedication. Here are some tips for creating lasting love in your marriage:

Communication Is Key

No matter what stage of life you’re in, communication is always key when it comes to maintaining a strong marital relationship. This includes regularly having meaningful conversations about all aspects of life (including both the good and the bad). Make sure that you listen as much as you talk—and don’t forget to take turns speaking! It’s also important that you really think before you speak so that your words don’t come off as thoughtless or hurtful. If communication is an issue in your marriage, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy as needed.

Be Intentional With Your Time Together

When it comes down to it, relationships require effort — especially marriages! One way to make sure yours thrives is by intentionally setting aside time each week for just the two of you. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy; simply pick something you both enjoy doing and make it a point to do it together. Whether it’s going out for dinner or having a movie night at home, taking this time for one another will help keep your relationship strong. Additionally, plan regular date nights so that even when life gets busy, you still have something special planned!

Express Appreciation & Gratitude

In any relationship (not just marriage) showing appreciation and gratitude goes a long way towards creating lasting love. Make sure that you thank each other regularly — whether it’s something small like thanking them for refilling the coffee pot, or bigger things like complimenting them on something they did for work recently. Giving compliments (genuine ones!) can help maintain the spark in your marriage, while also reminding each other why you got married in the first place!

The Cons of Marriage

Despite the benefits that come with marriage, there are some drawbacks as well. Many argue that marriage can put too much pressure on a relationship and can lead to unhealthy expectations from both parties involved. To my mind, getting married requires a significant amount of paperwork and legal documents, which can be time-consuming and expensive to file. By the way, if two people decide to divorce later on in life, they must go through another lengthy process involving lawyers and multiple court appearances before the divorce is finalized. This process can take months or even years depending on the circumstances.

Is Marriage Still Relevant in Today’s Society?

So, it’s up to each individual person whether they choose to get married or stay single in today’s society; there is no right answer that fits everyone’s situation perfectly. Everyone should do what they feel most comfortable with when it comes down to deciding between staying single or getting married.

Despite the fact that child or youngster marriage is illegal by Indian law, these genealogical custom proceeds. Child marriage is positioned second in India mainly in Southern Asia after Bangladesh, has a miserable record here; completely 40% of child marriages today occur there. During childbirth, the young ladies are guaranteed to men who are usually much older than they are. At that point after menarche, by and large around the age of 10 or 11, they are offered. These kids get separated from their childhoods and are faced with the real factors of grown-up life when extremely youthful. Youngster marriage in India is basic in the country territories of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, where 47% of young ladies are hitched before the age of 18. (Brides, 2020)

Child marriage is a biggest issue and a violation

Youngster marriage is an awful basic liberties infringement. It hinders youngsters’ turn of events, denying them of their education, their wellbeing, and their future. It particularly presents a danger to the strength of little youngsters. Since they’re too youthful to even consider having sexual relations and withstand a pregnancy, they generally die while conceiving an offspring or, more than likely make due with genuine medical issues. As indicated by the 2015 UNICEF report, the birth rate among teenagers in India is 39%. With respect to instruction, young ladies and young men who are given in marriage are denied of their entitlement to education and therefore, to a superior future.

The official prohibition on child marriage through universal law

There are numerous global instruments that prohibit and denounce child marriage. Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child manages youngster union with a specific degree by specifying that kids reserve the privilege to openly communicate their suppositions on all choices concerning them. The Convention additionally precludes a wide range of mercilessness, sexual savagery, and abuse that are hindering to the prosperity of a kid. Likewise, Paragraph 2 in Article 16 of the Convention on the disposal of segregation toward ladies specifies that kid commitment and relationships have no legitimate impact. The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child has additionally descended against youngster marriage by precluding child marriage and commitment.

Public Legal Framework The Constitution of India perceives the weak situation of kids and their entitlement to insurance. Thusly, following the teaching of defensive segregation, it ensures in Article 15 unique thoughtfulness regarding youngsters through fundamental and exceptional laws and strategies that shield their privileges. The privilege to balance, insurance of life and individual freedom and the privilege against abuse cherished in Articles 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 23 and 24 (these are the articles that has been breached in the United Declaration of Human rights) further repeat India’s duty to the assurance, wellbeing, security and prosperity of every one of its kin, including the girl child. Article 39 orders that the State will, specifically, direct its strategy towards making sure about that ‘youngsters are given chances and offices to create in a solid way and in states of opportunity and poise and adolescence and youth are ensured against abuse and against good and material deserting’.

While halting youngster marriage in India is a drawn out objective that includes changing accepted practices and man centric convictions, lessening destitution, and improving instructive open doors for young ladies, India has far to go in improving its laws in the short-run. The laws ought to be improved by making child marriages consequently void without expecting gatherings to go to court, and putting a more prominent accentuation on condemning the demonstrations of government authorities or marriage enlistment centers who neglect youngster relationships. (Child Marriage in India: Loopholes in the Law, 2020)

Introduction

Love has no boundaries; thus, marriages are no longer limited to heterosexual sted in couples. Same-sex marriages have been legalized in several countries that have led to the initiation of demanding equal rights by the people of the LGBTQ Community. With the struggle of these activities, it has now become possible for same-sex couples to be free and enjoy equal rights in some countries.

Same-sex marriages are not a trend or western influence that is adopted by society. Same-sex attraction has existed since ancient times. It was not openly and vividly talked about due to a lack of knowledge and understanding. It is still a taboo in most of the world. It is our responsibility to educate ourselves and the world so that same-sex couples do not face discrimination. In India, same-sex marriages are yet to be legalized. On 6 September 2018, the Supreme court of India decriminalized gay sex marking a historic judgment in the Indian judiciary. The court defined love to be without boundaries. This historical judgment is a result of prolonged protests and suffering. It was welcomed and celebrated by the country with joy. Same-sex marriages are held like every other marriage.

The rituals and traditions are not different for same-sex marriage than heterosexual marriage. Both kinds of marriage are intended to unite two souls who are in love and care for each other. Discriminating and judging same-sex couples is inhuman and wrong. This mindset needs to be changed as we are moving towards a progressive world. To understand the concept of same-sex attraction and the LGBTQ community, proper sex education must be introduced at the school level. This education is very important so that a person discovers the true soul and desire within oneself. It is always said to be with the person one loves.

To find the person one loves, we must educate ourselves about the different aspects of love and desire. Educating oneself on the various aspects of sexual attraction will lead us to be better people and make others better people. You can now access more Essay Writing on this topic and many more. Same-sex marriages are ridiculed in most places by society. It is wrong to discriminate against human beings for their sexual preferences. Nor it is our right to devoid them of their fundamental rights as human beings. They are humans who deserve respect at all points of their life irrespective of their sexual preference.

Conclusion

We have come a long way now in protecting gay rights. Every individual must support the cause of equality. Same-sex marriages must be legalized in all parts of the world, and same-sex couples must be given equal human rights. Same-sex marriages must be welcomed with joy, and same-sex couples must not be subjected to discrimination. Marrying anyone is a basic fundamental right, thus not allowing same-sex couples to get married is devoiding basic human rights. We must take care that the LGBTQ community is not devoid of their fundamental rights and is treated with respect like everybody else.

A marriage is a legal agreement of two people and an unchanging contract of a lifetime commitment to each other. Marriage is also a sacred and holy union of two people. In marriage, a man and a woman unite as one and it is so amazing that two different individuals become one in any aspect of their lives after the wedding. Marriage is more than a beautiful wedding suit and dress, more than the sparkly wedding rings, and more than the big celebrations during the wedding. Meaning, marriage life is more important than a big wedding day. Whether both men and women prepare for the big day of their wedding, it is very important that both of them should understands the importance of marriage with a covenant with God and also understand the commitment and vows that they will promise to have for a lifetime.

We all know that marriage is the beginning to have a family. Man and woman called husband and wife inside the marriage. Without marriage, there is no assurance of lifetime commitment between husband and wife. One of them can think of an option to look for another person to be his or her new partner and wanted to stay away from their family easily when there is a misunderstanding between them, and because he or she believes that they are still single, free and not married it is easy for them to do what they want. Meaning it is important to a family to have a married couple, not only for the security of their mutual relationship but also for the security of their family.

A marriage is a physical, spiritual, and emotional union of each other. The purpose of marriage is not only for sexual pleasure although it is part of the enjoyment inside the marriage, it is also for showing your wholehearted commitment to the one you love. Inside the marriage, you will find companionship, completeness, enjoyment, protection, fruitfulness, and long-lasting relationship that will give benefits to both of you. Because of oneness or union between husband and wife companionship will be shown because they both find each other as best friends. It is also happy to know that under the marriage, the wife feels the protection of her husband by laying down his life for her in any situation. And because of their love for each other, they can experience enjoyment and fruitfulness or the multiplication in their family.

Is it that amazing that marriage brings additional life to all couples? Many people want to get married because they want to build a family and they want to have a child. These reasons are not wrong, but as long as both of them take care of their relationship and marriage it will be more good and beneficial to their soon to be children.

Part of the marriage is the love between husband and wife. This is one of the reasons why they decided to get married. But as marriage is consist of two different individual, misunderstanding, arguments, and problems are always there to be experienced. So it is necessary for the married couple to show their love with patience, kindness, gentleness, humbleness, forgiveness, and without pride. These attitudes are important to make their marriage happy and healthy. Every couple who are planning to get married should also be ready for the process of adjustments, challenges, struggles, and tough times. But all of these things could also help their marriage to be strong.

It is not easy to get into a lifetime commitment like marriage but, if both couple are willing to do anything to protect their marriage, everything will be fine. Every marriage is not perfect and has flaws but if husband and wife are always support each other and giving their efforts to protect their marriage, happiness and fruitful marriage can be possible to achieve.

We need to always remember, that having a beautiful and healthy marriage is depends on how the husband and wife work for it. But the most important secret every marriage should have is God. If God is the center of it, whatever happens, or struggles they may face, their marriage will always stand strong. Regardless of all things and attitudes that we have given but if God is not the center all will be futile. God is the matchmaker and builder of marriage, so He should be the center of it from the start till the end.

Same sex marriage has become so prevalent in our society and is still becoming more rampant as the years goes by; same sex became available on the 20th of July 2005, some shocking statistics which was stated in the Canadian encyclopedia has proven this to be true, it states that after same-sex marriage became available on 20 July 2005, the 2006 census was the first to collect data on legally married same-sex couples. It showed there were more than 45,000 declared same-sex couples in Canada, and that 16.5 per cent of those were married.

By the time of the 2016 census, there were 72,880 declared same-sex couples 0.9 per cent of the total number of couples and 33.4 per cent of those same-sex couples were married. That represents a tripling in the number of married, same-sex unions across the country of Canada between 2006 and 2016, this is an example to show how rapid same-sex marriage has become widespread in only one country. According to the summary article from the Encyclopedia of gender and society, same sex marriage is the union of two people of the same sex that is sanctioned by the state. The term is often deployed to talk about legally registered same-sex civil unions or cohabitation. In everyday usage the term is sometimes employed to donate unregistered same sex partnerships that have been marked by commitment ceremonies.

In a world where we are all different people and have free will to choose, counselors as much as clients do have their own beliefs and are also diverse individuals, counselors and clients do have their own core values even though this may be conflicting at times. According to onlinelibrary.wiley.com counselors‐in‐training who hold religious beliefs that conflict with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) affirmations present a complex dilemma for educators and supervisors. In recent years, law suits filed by such trainees against their educators or supervisors (e.g., Ward v. Wilbanks,2010), along with various states’ laws protecting religious freedom (see U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2016), have further complicated this dilemma. Those working with non-affirming trainees frequently grapple with questions such as, “What can we do when a trainee’s refusal to work with LGBT clients is rooted in religious values?” (e.g., Bieschke& Mintz,2012); “Can counselors work effectively with gay clients while privately believing homosexuality is wrong?” (e.g., Kocet&Herlihy, 2014); “Can we expect trainees to engage in genuine self‐reflection about their religious beliefs while being evaluated by educators or supervisors?” (e.g., McCutcheon &Imel, 2019); and “Are there situations in which a value clash is not merely developmental, but an indication that the trainee is unsuited for the counseling field?” (e.g., Mintz et al.,2009. These are some of the delicate conflicting issues that are taking place in society among our counselors and clients and some of the questions that are being asked which are very challenging issues but at the end of the day, it is really the initiative that we take to address these problems that will determine each outcome. Concerning the question that has been asked if a counselor can work effectively with gay clients while privately believing homosexual is wrong, yes, it is possible because it is about helping that person with having boundaries knowing what you believe but not taking on their personal lives.

There is solid proof in the Bible that God is against same sex marriage and doesnot condone sexual immorality, he gave us all a free will to choose but the Bible is a guide to help us to live a life pleasing to him whether, values, personal beliefs, tradition or culture differs we are to be subjected to God’s law and his ways. In Leviticus 18 and 20 it clearly states that, “you shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination”. (Leviticus 18:22). It also states that If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. (Leviticus 20:13). Genesis also speaks about Sodom and Gomorrah where a lot of immoral behavior was taking place including homosexuality and he destroyed it. In Matthew 19 verses 4-5 Jesus also reaffirmed, ‘Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one?” this scripture is clear that God made man and woman to be joined together as he made Eve for Adam in the garden of Eden. Even though the Bible stated all these things, it never denounced hatred towards the people, God loves them but hate their sinful ways, it is the sin that he hates and not the people and so therefore we should treat persons of same-sex marriage as such, as human beings even though we do not condone the behaviour. In John 8 verses 4-11 when Jesus was on earth, he forgave an adulterous woman, he never condemned her for what she did, but he asked where her accusers were. Who that was without sin should cast the first stone, so they left cause they all had sinned and all he told her was to go and sin no more, this was depicting mercy to a sinful woman, Jesus still defended her and did not let her punishment came to pass because of her sinful action so we too as helpers can become that agent of change and not discriminate or condemn but to be compassionate as humanitarians.

People of same-sex marriage has been discriminated against and stigmatized, as counselors and social workers, we too have biases even though sometimes we do not recognize them until something is been discussed and we may become aware of them. As mentioned before, we too like God should embrace these persons with sympathy as counselors and social workers by showing care towards them in terms of advocating for them and empowering them. As long as they are not trying to impose their beliefs on the counselor or trying to get personal then it is ok to continue the process of counseling those clients. My belief as a social worker is that not everyone may feel comfortable to counsel persons of same-sex marriage, and so that too should be respected because of one’s own choice, values and preferences, so if it is a case where a counselor does not feel comfortable in counseling those persons, then they should take the initiative to refer the person to another counselor who is willing to take on that task. As helpers, we want to do our jobs effectively and by doing so, we want to give our best service so instead of serving half-heartedly I believe it is better to refer these individuals to a helper who will serve wholeheartedly.

Conclusion

According to www.prb.org/increase-in-married-same-sex-us-couples, the number of married same-sex couples in the United States has increased dramatically in recent years, as reported in a recent Bulletin on U.S. family change from the Population Reference Bureau.In June 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in every U.S. state; a 2013 ruling required the federal government to recognize state-sanctioned marriages of same-sex couples. Married same-sex couples totaled an estimated 486,000 by October 2015, representing 45 percent of all same-sex couples, up from the 2013 level of 230,000 married same-sex couples, 21 percent of the total. With the rapid increase of same-sex marriage, as helping professionals we should consider how widespread same-sex marriage is becoming all over the world and this makes it almost inevitable to stop ourselves from extending a helping hand to them because everyone needs help at some point and is seeking help so who will they go to if not us?

Reference

1. Heaphy, B. (2009, December 31). Same-Sex Marriage. Retrieved from https://search.credoreference.com/content/topic/same_sex_marriage
2. Minnix, G. M. (2018, April 11). Reconciling Counselors’ Christian Beliefs and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Affirmation: A Grounded Theory. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cvj.12076
3. Living Out. (n.d.). What does the Bible say about homosexuality? Retrieved from https://www.livingout.org/the-bible-and-ssa
4. Same-Sex Marriage in Canada. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/same-sex-marriage-in-canada
5. Existing Data Show Increase in Married Same-Sex U.S. Couples. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.prb.org/increase-in-married-same-sex-us-couples
6. Heaphy, B. (2009, December 31). Same-Sex Marriage. Retrieved from https://search.credoreference.com/content/topic/same_sex_marriage?locale=en

The term marriage simply can be illustrate as the union of two people which is regulated by laws, social norms and values as well as religious aspects in which they share mutual affection, religious duty, collaboration for growing their off spring and soon. The term marriage has been defined variedly around the world and in different tenure of time. In present context marriages are not only backed by religious norms and values but also through the country rules and regulation. With the advancement and growth of human civilization the practice of marriage seems to be declining.

According to the historian the recorded practices of marriage can be seen in Mesopotamia which is dated back to 2350 B.C. After that it is widely spread throughout the world developing its own unique culture and tradition. But the overall motto for the marriage seems to be same throughout the world. Two opposite sexes (male and female) are bind into a wedlock which gives them legal and social rights to have sex, give birth to the offspring, share the financial, religious and social burden and benefit to each other. But the definition of marriages seems to be changing from time to time. In ancient time polygamy, polyandry, child marriages, plural marriage and forced marriages were widely practiced in various part of the world but most of the countries doesn’t allow the practices legally and bound to decline these types of marriages. Analyzing the marriages from different societies it can be seen that the rights for women seem to be lacking. And new kind of regulation is also allowed to practice such that same sex’s marriage has obtained rights for the legality in some well developed countries. But with the modernization of human civilization there is vast decline in marriage and the shift of marriageable age. People are tending to have less interest on marriages which is consequently decreasing the child birth on country. Various factors like financial burden, pursuing career, education, increment on using social network which is projecting human life to unachievable virtual life, pressure of work, lack of interest on opposite sex and so on are dramatically changing the perspective of people on marriages as well increases the divorce rates on marriage couples. As well some unethical practices of marriages like dowry system and vast age gaps marriage seem to discouraging the marriages.

As summary we can say that marriage is one of the beautiful concepts that human has ever developed. Through the course of time they have change the perception of marriage and built the code of conduct for marrying later on legal action has also improvised the marriage concept which is still evolving. But the advancement and modernization human society, change of living standards, physiological behavior, social responsibility and financial burden there seems to be lack of interest on the marriages.

Introduction

In this chapter we shall be having an overview of same-sex marriage. The main purpose of this, is to first of all understand what same sex marriage is, how it came about. There is also an historical analysis that will enable us to arrive at the understanding of this overview. This chapter will also look at how it became present-day issue among the human society.

Explication of Words

Same

The word ‘same’ is an English usually used as an adjective. It simply means ‘similar’. identical with what is about to be or has just been mentioned: is gotten from the Greek word homós, Sanskrit samá from the oxford distortionary ‘same’ is defined as “not different as regard to itself” or that wich is reffered to when mentioned. talking about the ‘same’ which implies ‘sameness’ one is talking about that which is similar, exact, and alike .

Sex

According to Cambridge dictionary: “sex is defined as the state of being either a male or female” It is important to distinguish between “sex” and “gender” though sometimes they are used interchangeably of which it is not supposed. This is because there uses and meaning are becoming distinct.

The terms, “sex” is simply referring to the natural differences between males and females, these differences are physical or physiological such as genitalia. More also referred to is genetic makeup, like height and muscularity. This implies that, when sex is talked about emphasis are made physiological and physical nature of an organism. A particular sex has a different hormone that makes it biologically and physiologically different.

Gender

Gender, is defined as: “social and cultural role of each sex in a given society”. In other words, gender refers to the individual behaviors and mannerisms, which can manifest in personal traits, and social positions of being female or male that the society attributes to every individual. In our world today, people change their gender-role base on what is attainable in a certain society. In a sense we can say that: “Gender characteristics, make reference to the social-construct of women and men, which manifests as norms, roles, and relationships between groups of both Men and Wome, nevertheless, it varies from society to society and as well can be changed.”

Same-sex Marriage

The term “same-sex” simply means like sex which can be put in this way a man and a man or a woman and a woman. Same-sex marriage can be simply defined as marriage or union between people of same sex. Going by the explications made earlier, in same sex we refer to people with the same biological make-up which is basically associated with the genitalia and physiology.

Same-sex marriage is a union between a man and a man or a woman and a woman. In other words, Same-sex marriage can be said to be the marriage comprising of persons of the same gender, coming together to live as domestic partners. It is the marriage which in some nations of the world regarded as civil union, this union is between persons of the same sex.

Historical Overview

The history of same-sex or gay marriage dates back to the ancient Greco-Roman world. With the explication of the word “lesbian” which is derived from the name of an Island called ‘Lesbos’ this is due to their attitude of engaging into what is considered a profane sexual act or behaviour. This people from Lesbos are said to have engage mainly into depraved sexual activity. It is based on this that the ancient Greek verb “Lesbiazein” which means an act of lesbian i.e. a person who is from lesbos in other works “fellate” with no references to any gender, came to be.

Before, the twenty first century, homosexual act and practices where not publicized. The whole story changed in 2004 when Massachusetts, in the United States legalized Same-Sex. This made a turnaround in changing either what the constitutions. After the court ruling in Massachusetts many American states began to reverse their laws which does not give in for gay and lesbians. In relation to this the modern world of today as a whole readjusts its ideas on marriage, thereby giving it lots types of definitions as a result of sexual revolutions, modernism among others.

Furthermore, the understanding that marriage joins only spouses of opposite sex was seen to have been practiced in the breach. So as earlier stated, the legalization of same-sex marriages and it other unions. Laws which were established in line with the natural law, were amended both at the local and international level. Prohibition of same-sex marriage repealed. At this stage marriage law were now put to suit the current trend(s).

Historical Analysis

Following a study made by Johaun Jakob Bachofen, a Swiss legal historian in 1861 together with Henry Morgan in 1871, it was discovered that almost every culture, there is an ideal form of marriage. This ideal form of marriage which is major between a man and woman is determined by the society. In respect to this, every human society has an idea on how and the marriages ought and should be.

Furthermore, in Africa as a whole, the existence of same-sex marriage is said to have been denied outrightly. This is because the essence of marriage in Africa is to give birth (begetting Children). The idea of same-sex is not welcomed within the African society.

Another factor that precursored or brought same-sex marriages in some cultures was invasion i.e. conquering of nations. To this, conquering nations forced or subjected most of their subject-nations to what the regard to be incest or profane sexual activities. From this we can infare that, homosexuality in a sense is a neo-culture in most nations where it is practiced today.

In the traditional African society for instance, it is an abomination to the highest order for one to engage in to same-sex sexual practices; with regards to this, anyone caught-up in the act is either ostracized from the entire society or given a jungle justice.

What am trying to pinpoint historically here, is that in the traditional African society which existed before colonization, it is clearly understood that Same-sex intimacy and marriages is an ‘incest-taboo’. Not just that, it is not even thought of or spoken about. It is and remained absurd in the society.

Same-sex practices is unnatural because, it is against the law of nature, this is a belief which is held by both religion and cultures. Dating back to history once more, it held in the ancient Greeks, homosexuality to be an unnatural act, this came as a result of observations made on ani animals by some ancient Greek scholars, who in their endeavours to define the natural principles of the cosmos. Greeks writers drew a general conclusion that the main purpose of sex remains for reproduction and nothing more.

In the United States cultural and Legal Status, same-sex had rapidly changed through the reversals in American Social History. Effects from this we can see in the nature of social relationship in America today. The paradigm shift about sexual orientation(s) rapidly taking force today started or gained ground in around 2003. Not forgetting the its root which was the court ruling in the Massachusetts in 2002. Within the same year many American states began to overturn the laws which was considered to be antigay, which has been enforce before now. Although, one may ask, are we moving from normal to abnormal? The little sense in it is that people taught that liberty and autonomy which has given rise to ideologies such as sexual freedom and sexual freedom also is all about self-aggrandizement. The world of today, if not controlled, based on the way things are moving, we might end up into the world of social-cutoff. Social-cutoff is the societal living in which an one cuts him/herself from any communal practices thereby removing oneself from the ‘communal’ nature of their society. The bottom line of same-sex marriage is all about self-gratification of one’s sexual desire.

Conclusion

The general overview of same-sex marriage and its historical background, which is carried out in this chapter, has to be made due to its necessary needed for one to understand the idea behind dam-sex marriage. We have been able to see the line of history between the same-sex and other absurd sexual practices in the history of mankind. Flowing from the historical understanding we have seen that same-sex came as the quest for pleasure in the human society.

“People around the world face violence and inequality—and sometimes torture, even execution—because of who they love, how they look, or who they are.” [1] LGBTQ+ is a controversial topic in today’s society and has been on the political agenda in Australia for several reasons, with enormous pressure from the public and widespread coverage in the media.

Studies from the International Lesbian and Gay Association in may 2014 express that almost 2.8 billion individuals are living in nations where identifying as gay could prompt imprisonment, corporal punishment, or even death. On the contrary, only 780 million people are living in nations where same-sex marriage or civil unions are legal rights. It is obvious there is still a lot to be some in order to accomplish worldwide equality for LGBTQ communities.

Essentially, the three of important functions of laws being implemented in society are social control, dispute resolution, and social change. Laws are made to authorize harmony and equality among us citizens.

With mounting pressure from the public for recognition and equality for same-sex marriage along with a vast amount of coverage on social media, on the 9th of December 2017, the right to marry in Australia was not controlled by sex or gender. As per The Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms), Act 2017 same-sex marriage is defined as follows; “marriage between two persons of marriageable age, regardless of their gender”.

After this marriage act was implemented, other rules to get married did not change however, all marriage forms were modified and updated to be suitable for all marrying couples. Married couples were to be treated as equivalent to other married couples in Australia regardless of whether the marriage took place abroad or before the 9th of December.

In 2008 and 2009, at a federal level, there was a wide-going set-up of changes to give equal qualifications and obligations to same-sex couples in specific areas, such as social security, employment, taxation, and superannuation. Although these areas were updated to better suit the needs of same-sex relationships, a particular area of difference was the institution of marriage. Thus it was decided, that in order to achieve true equality same-sex couples must have the privilege to marry.

In order for, a decision to be made as to whether same-sex marriage should be legalized, a plebiscite was established in Australia where all adults on the electoral roll were invited to vote via mail (post). The question reading, ‘Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?’ was implemented. “When the vote was declared on the floor of the House, the packed public gallery exploded into cheers and applause, while MPs crossed the chamber to embrace each other, wave rainbow flags and in some cases cry.” [2]

This bill was forwarded to Australians to allow equity in marriage allowing individuals to marry the ones they love without restriction from the law. Same-sex marriage was not a popular topic when the first marriage act was passed given Australia’s conservative nature, however through the growing Australian community and mounting pressure from the public, it is now a commodity, therefore, providing equity and equality to communities.

Furthermore, 61 percent of Australians voted Yes to legalize same-sex marriage But the real question is does the LGBTQ+ community feel equal yet to their hetero peers? The key stakeholders are of course the LGBTQ+ community and the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL)

It is said that prior to same-sex marriage, studies and research show that members of the LGBTQ+ community faced high levels of psychological distress rooted in social isolation and difficulty in obtaining a legally recognized relationship. In contrast, this leads us to believe that same-sex marriage may bestow health benefits. This statement was proven to be correct as those who were part of the LGBTQ+ community reported significantly less depression and anxiety, and better psychological well-being.

From a religious perspective, the Australian Christain Lobby, or ACL we’re deeply enraged by the outcome. They are most broadly known for their work opposing same-sex marriage and claim that same-sex marriage would “inevitably” result in children “who are deprived of the right to be known by and raised by their parents” without identifying how the proposed marriage law affects children of same-sex couples, many of who were already parents. [3] The amount of resentment which came due to same-sex marriage being legalized resulted in a member of the board of the Australian Christian Lobby being forced to resign from ACL as his principal employer, PricewaterhouseCoopers, supported same-sex marriage.

Through lobbying and the fight for equality from the Australian community, a political platform for the LGBTQ+ community has been recognized and allows them to feel comfortable in their own skin and legally through the Marriage Amendment Act 2017. It was elucidated that the type of nation we are welcoming those to love who they love. Social media has had a major impact on the journey to equity spreading the positives of same-sex marriage to not only the LGBTQ+ community but the economy as seen through recent statistics.

The law reform has proven to be an effective one as we have seen solid results with the LGBTQ+ community and the Australian community. Because of the amendment, we have now enabled positive change for our future generation. Building a healthy and supportive environment to prosper and establish an even stronger community.

Modernization and the altered views of Millennials compared to Generation X and Baby Boomers have pressured and hopefully been a positive reinforcement and guide on different religions and how they view the same sex marriage. Unfortunately, we will always be faced with two sides of the religious spectrum, those willing to conform to new trends, and on the opposite side, the radically religious, those who are stuck allowing their traditional ways guide them even though they no longer match the world we are living in.

Catholicism has found a way to reduce a multidimensional human to a mere sexual orientation. The traditional teachers of Catholics is that Men and Women get married and the woman worships the man, and ensures his every want, need and desire are met. If you don’t follow the Ten Commandments; You shall have no other gods before Me, You shall make no idols, You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, Keep the Sabbath day holy, Honor your father and your mother, You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor, You shall not covet (BibleInfor). Along with the bible teaching, than you are going against the word of God and being unfaithful. Being in a same sex relationship is going against the word of God, so thoser embracing the new word, and attempting to reform it is running into one of two situations, acceptence, and those willing to join the new movement, or banishment from the church all together. But who are those people to tell someone who they can worship and believe in? Some interesting information I learned in my World Religion class was that all the bible writings (teachings), have been translated from languages such as Latin and Italian to English. Through these translation there were sure to have some situations where something was misinterpreted or miswritten. Sex and gender, although some people believe it to be the same are two very different words with different meanings.

Differentiating from Catholicism, Hinduism isn’t monotheistic, so they don’t have one particular person, power, spirit that they report to so views and attitudes towards LGBTQ vary from different groups, places of worship, families (Stances of Faith: Hinduism, 2018) There is nothing within the Hinduism religion that ostracizes members of LGBTQ, they welcome them into practicing the faith (Stances of Faith: Hinduism, 2018). The Gods refer to people members of Hinduism who identify as queer as third sex, implying they don’t procreate (Stances of Faith: Hinduism, 2018), all of these accpeting acts within the religion prove that they support same sex weddings. Although traditionally Hindu is welcoming to LGBTQ doesn’t determine or guarantee that all families and members will be accepting of LGBTQ people.

Buddist beliefes are larley personalized, you spirtual journey is led by yourself (Stances of Faith: Buddhism, 2018), determining if same-sex marriage would be celebrated or frowned down upon is a difficult task. There are no original scriptures stating particular sexual orientation or identifiers are “better” or “worse” than others (Stances of Faith: Buddhism, 2018). With this information it is easy to assume that a member of the LGBTQ community or not, you are still welcomed into the faith and free to live the same spiritual life you would like to live.

Candians is a large “Catholic” dominated country, but those that actually practice the faith is much smaller than those that identify with it. Canada is a multi-diverse country with a number of religions, but also with many people identifying with no religion, or identify as “Other Religions” than the most popular ones listen in class. Multi religious and multi diverse translate to race, faith, gender, sex, status, age. With these large, different demographics we are bound to have a division in our countries opinions and belief systems. Our political system is a great example, being mostly split between Liberal & NDB vs. Conservative. These political parties align perfectly with agreeing with and not agrring with same sex marriage. Secularism in Canada has led Canada to be a nation where Same Sex marriage is legalized but people are still against it. It’s interesting that Christianity is the prodominate religion in Canada, Christians have the harshest opinions on same sex marriage based off the three religions I am researching yet we as a country have legalized it.

Catholisim, Hinduism and Buddhism are all predominant religions in Canada. With such a diverse population we, as a nation are bound to have mixed opinions. It’s not suprised that same-sex marriage is legalized here, what is suprising is that some people still don’t understand why it is legalized. Religions individuals are said to be the most accepting, loving of beings, while realistically those that identify as Agnostic, without a religion or belief in numerous different spiritual practices, are usually the most accepting and loving.

Bibliography

1. BibleInfo. Retrieved from Ten Commandments List : https://www.bibleinfo.com/en/topics/ten-commandments-list
2. Human Rights Campaign . (2018, August 1). Human Rights Campaign . Retrieved from Stances of Faiths on LGBTQ Issues: Hinduism: https://www.hrc.org/resources/stances-of-faiths-on-lgbt-issues-hinduism
3. Human Rights Campaign . (2018, August 15). Stances of Faiths on LGBTQ Issues: Buddhism. Retrieved from Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/resources/stances-of-faiths-on-lgbt-issues-buddhism