dearly, and the time of parting is at hand—often very real parting, for the girl may be going some distance away to the house of her husband, which for a time will be very lonely.
When the wedding date is arranged, there is a ceremonial visit and financial matters are discussed. It is regarded as a good omen if the morning of this visit is fine and dry, which is usually the case.
The girl's parents arrange the date, and the visiting party agree to it. "We shall," they say, "give our boy to your daughter's slavery on such and such a day."
Ceremonies and Customs Before, At, and
After Marriage.
The date which is mutually agreed upon gives them a clear margin of six to eight months. Most marriages are arranged to be held in winter rather than in summer. In the province of Herat, one can trace a Persian influence, in so far as they prefer to hold matrimonial festivals during nuroz time. Nuroz is generally celebrated in Persia, and has its origin in that country. It is associated with the coming of the winter sun, and Farasis, or, as they are now called, Parsis, pay much attention to the Sun, the ancient worship of which was closely related to customs connected with the sect of ātish parast or Fire Worshippers.
In these months of preparation much work is done, so as to prepare a comfortable home for the young couple. A large dowry is expected, and given. Indeed, some houses are almost emptied so that the daughter may make a grand show at the wedding.
Women are employed to prepare clothing for the bride and bride-groom, and the whole household is meanwhile kept busy adding to the number of the articles, which are to be given. Women sew and do embroidery, and the father and brothers visit different shops, in their city or in
