The Study of Ritual Procedures and Beliefs Related to Marriage Among Thais of Hakka-Chinese Descent in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province
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Abstract
Wedding of Thai people of Hakka-Chinese descent is an overseas Chinese tradition that reflects their culture and beliefs. The objective of this research was to study the changes in ritual practices and beliefs of Thai people of Hakka-Chinese descent, who are part of the overseas Chinese community living in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. This study employed the concepts of migration and cultural assimilation and was conducted using purposive sampling. The informants were Hakka-Chinese residents of Hat Yai aged over 50 who had experience attending Hakka-style wedding ceremony. Semi-structured in-depth interviews and content analysis revealed that there were 15 procedures in the wedding ritual: 1. arranging a matchmaker, 2. checking astrological compatibility, 3. assessing the living conditions of the groom’s family, 4. arranging the wedding proposal ceremony, 5. organizing the wedding procession to the bride’s house, 6. proceeding to the bride’s house, 7. giving the dowry, 8. exchanging engagement rings, 9. escorting the bride from her house, 10. arriving at the groom’s house, 11. worshipping the ancestors, 12. eating glutinous rice balls and boiled eggs, 13. holding the tea offering ceremony, 14. holding the wedding banquet, and 15. entering the bridal chamber. Additionally, the study also revealed three main aspects of beliefs related to marriage: 1. numerology, 2. foods and fruits, and 3. ritual items. Although Hakka-style weddings in Hat Yai still follow traditional Hakka customs, cultural differences exist. The passage of time and the local economy have led to cultural integration and a reduction in the number of wedding ritual steps for the couple’s convenience in arrangement, as well as suitable timing. This study reflects that migration and cultural integration have influenced the transmission and transformation of cultural traditions. However, Thai people of Hakka-Chinese descent continue to preserve their original identity while adapting to contemporary wedding customs.
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