While the Nikkah ceremony itself focuses on the marital contract, kissing is generally not a part of the formal proceedings and is considered unusual immediately afterward in many cultural contexts.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Before the Nikkah: Intimate contact of any kind between the bride and groom is not permitted before the Nikkah. This includes kissing.
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During the Nikkah Ceremony: The Nikkah is a religious ceremony focused on the signing of the marriage contract (the "Nikkahnama") and prayers. Displays of affection like kissing are not part of the ritual.
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Immediately After the Nikkah: While technically permissible after the Nikkah is completed, publicly kissing is not a common practice in many Muslim cultures. Muslim weddings tend to be relatively conservative events. The newly married couple might share a private moment together after the ceremony.
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Cultural Variations: It's crucial to recognize that customs vary widely among different Muslim communities. In some more liberal or Westernized settings, a brief, modest kiss might be acceptable, but this is not the norm in more traditional settings.
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Focus on the Contract: The core of the Nikkah is the agreement between the bride and groom to enter into marriage, witnessed and affirmed according to Islamic principles. The emphasis is on the legal and spiritual bond being created.
In summary, while not explicitly forbidden in Islam after the Nikkah is completed, publicly kissing immediately after the ceremony is considered unusual and often culturally inappropriate in many Muslim communities. The propriety of such an act depends heavily on the specific cultural norms and the families involved.
