Marriage is a sacrament in Hinduism. It should not be viewed as a social contract between two families that are meant to bring the couple together in harmony and understanding. Marriage is an important part of Hindu culture and is celebrated in many ways, but it is considered a sacrament. The Vedas, the ancient Hindu scriptures, mention marriage as a sacrament.
The separation of husband and wife after marriage is becoming a growing concern in India today. According to a recent survey, nearly 40% of married couples in the country are facing marital discord, and a significant portion of them are looking for separation.
The primary reason for this is the lack of compatibility between the couple. Our society puts a lot of pressure on couples to get married without understanding the importance of compatibility in a long-term relationship. Moreover, as the couple grows, they often find it difficult to adjust to each other’s lifestyle, values, and beliefs. This leads to frequent clashes and arguments, and eventually, separation.
The ancient Indian sages have shown us the way to build a healthy and lasting relationship. According to the great philosopher, Chanakya, a successful marriage is the result of understanding the needs of each other and growing together. He prescribed certain advice that, if followed, can help couples stay together and have a harmonious marriage.
Firstly, Chanakya suggested that couples should understand the importance of communication. He advised couples to openly talk about their feelings and issues with each other rather than bottling them up inside. This will help them to reach a mutual understanding and resolve issues without any unpleasantness.
Secondly, Chanakya suggested that couples should be selfless in their relationship and prioritize the needs of each other. This will ensure that both partners are happy and content in the marriage.
Thirdly, Chanakya suggested that couples should learn to forgive each other and accept their differences. This will help them to nurture love and mutual respect for each other.
Divorce in Hinduism by Chanakya
Divorce in Hinduism is known as संबंध विच्छेद, or विवाह-विच्छेद (Sambandh vichhed, or Vivah-vichhed)
Chanakya allows a woman to divorce a traitor, a murderer, a degenerate of caste and religion, and an impotent husband. Even if there is animosity and enmity between husband and wife, divorce is possible. But Chanakya does not allow divorce under any circumstances in the first four types of religious marriages.
Chanakya also gives the right of remarriage to men and women under certain circumstances, such as if a woman does not have children or is a burden, then the husband can remarry after waiting for eight years. On the other hand, Chanakya allows marriage after waiting for one year for childless women whose husband has gone abroad for some time.
If the husband of a woman whose husband has become a monk or died, should not remarry for seven menstrual periods. If he has a child, he should stay for one year. After this, she should marry the real brother of her husband, if there is no real brother of the husband, then she can marry a family brother of the same gotra. Thus Kautilya also supports brother-in-law marriage.
Overall, Chanakya has given us several invaluable insights into the dynamics of a successful marriage. If couples follow these wise words, they can avoid the heartache of separation and lead a happy and fulfilling life together.