- It Confirms the Marriage Covenant
In Yoruba culture, Owo Ori symbolizes the groom’s commitment and the formalization of marriage. Returning it can undermine the sanctity of the union. Besides, it is seen as part of the Eru Idana in Yoruba weddings, if that would be returned, then all the eru iyawo should be returned as well.
Scriptural parallel: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Mark 10:9) the bride price seals the covenant, not just a transaction. - It Honors the Family & Cultural Tradition
Paying Owo Ori is a mark of respect to the bride’s parents and lineage. Returning it can be seen as disrespectful to the family and the cultural process of approval and recognition. It can cause a back and forth at the wedding ceremony between the elders of the families. - It Represents a Spiritual and Moral Commitment
The bride price is not merely financial; it’s symbolic of the groom’s willingness to care for and protect the bride. This shows they will be capable financially to take care of the woman (it’s a whole human being, lol, somebody’s daughter they are exchanging here o. Returning it could suggest a breach of responsibility or lack of seriousness. As long as they were not forced to pay the dowry and they have the capacity to give it, why not if not.
Scripture affirms commitment and accountability: “Let each man give according as he purposes in his heart” (2 Corinthians 9:7) the offering reflects heartfelt dedication. - It Celebrates the Marriage, Not the Transaction
Owo Ori is a symbolic investment in the marriage, not a business deal to be renegotiated later. Collecting it shows that, you accept the honour and appreciation the groom’s family accord yours and whatever they give, be it in (millions or billions, – which most times is not laughs) cannot be use as a means of transaction to buy your daughter (ko-se-fowo-ra l’omo)
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us that partnership matters more than individual gain: “Two are better than one… if either of them falls, one can help the other up” the value lies in the union, not the money.
Teju Alaga’s insight:
While Owo Ori should not be returned, gifts and tokens are still be exchanged within the marriage to celebrate milestones. That is why many bride’s families now do return gifts. Should in case the family elder or the whole family doesn’t have a tradition of taking “owo ori”, then the money envelope should be handed over to the groom who should in turn at that moment hand it over to his wife; for home and children care. This act alone, as simple as it is, preserves both respect for tradition and the spirit of giving, which is a good Christian character.
…Ayo igbeyawo a kari o
