By Zainab Al-Mashoor

KUWAIT: In the historical context, marriage often revolved around fulfilling religious, societal or sexual expectations. Criticisms like being labeled a spinster for remaining unmarried at a certain age were commonplace. However, contemporary society, influenced by advancements in education and women’s rights, has witnessed a transformative shift in the perception of women and marriage.

Today, women embrace independence, leveraging education to explore their needs, wants, and desires before choosing marriage, free from societal pressures. Engaging with women of diverse experiences sheds light on the evolving dynamics of marriage. At 28 years old and unmarried, Hadil emphasizes the significance of self-dependence in shaping her personality and priorities. Choosing to delay marriage until achieving a certain career goal and attaining emotional stability, Hadil advocates discovering oneself to know what they are looking for in the significant other before taking a decision to get married.

Dua, at 34, reflects on an early marriage at 21, which she deemed a premature decision. After a divorce at 26, she focused on personal growth and maturity before marrying the right person at 33. Dua contends that the optimal age for marriage is 25 and above, as women are more likely to have discovered themselves and made informed choices.

Fatima, married at 22 for societal and religious purposes, acknowledges the challenges of early marriage. She hoped she had waited longer to understand herself and the complexities of marriage. “Marriage has treated me well enough. I am exploring the experience, coping, cherishing, sacrificing and gratifying the process. It wasn’t as easy as expected, more like being lost in a maze, finding your way out with no answers to everything that’s going on around you,” she said.

“After marriage, it’s an ease of mind, being with a partner, leaning on and learning about each other. Being able to share your thoughts, happiness and sorrow; being patient, forgiving, finding your way back to each other and studying about your suitability,” Fatima said, implying that the most important things about marriage are trust, love and support. She emphasizes that maturity can manifest at any age, underscoring the importance of family education on marriage roles and sacrifices.

Seham, married at 18 due to love at first sight, acknowledges the ups and downs of a young marriage. Despite the challenges, she and her partner grew together, supporting each other’s decisions and embodying the enduring aspects of marital commitment.

These diverse narratives highlight the evolving nature of women’s perspectives on marriage. From Hadil’s emphasis on self-discovery to Dua’s advocacy for maturity before marriage, Fatima’s acknowledgment of the ongoing learning process and Seham’s enduring commitment, each woman offers a unique insight into the complex interplay between personal growth, societal expectations and the evolving institution of marriage.