Ukhty Mwanacha Kinywaji cha ndoa Qaswida is a qaseeda that offers a multi-tonal view of the values, hopes, and obligations especially attached to marriage as a bride and bridegroom. Originating from the cultural backgrounds of Swahili and Islam, the song embodies celebration with admonishment; admiration with instruction for the young ones as they begin their estranged life.
As it commences, it states, “Tunashangilia / tunafurahia”, illustrating of the moments when relatives or friends somewhat express joy to appreciate the existence of bride and groom. The feeling of collectivism during a wedding is evident in the inclusion of the phrases it is not only the couple who should be smiling but all the people there. Most societies celebrate the coming together of two people and their families in marriage, especially the Swahili or Islamic society.
As the song goes on, it also moves into more counsel being given deep counsel to the groom actually all in rhythm and lyrical speech. The phrase “kwa wewe ulo shurabu / hichi kinywaji cha ndoa / usiende kukiharibu” is in relation to the groom that he should not go and spoil his marriage. That marriage is like a drink that once it is given to you, do not spoil it is also symbolic to careful handling. This indication shows the groom what his training was, namely that he must uphold the marriage and the respect that it deserves.
Patience and managing conflicts are also addressed in the song as part and parcel of any marriage. “Kuvumilia wajibu / Mazito yakitokea” reminds both even bride and groom that there will be need for patience to be observed during difficult times and this is very vital in any marriage that is to run smoothly. The advice goes on to comfort the couple by assuring them that, inside the marriage, whatever has been taken out will not be taken back: “Kutunza siri thawabu,”
An act to mean that prudence with matrimonial issues is an inherent inclination that appreciates social and religious norms among the Muslims and the Swahili culture as a whole. Any issues that arise between a husband and a wife are to be resolved without any third parties getting involved in order to safeguard the honor of both parties’ families.
Ukhty Mwanacha goes practical when it comes to marriage, for most of these speech acts are domestic in aspects. This is well elaborated in “Kitanda si marekebu / kakitunze sawasawa” which is home management. Kakikunze Sawasawa cleanliness and organization of the physical space both the couple occupies and where household work is done-most commonly referred to as home. Seeing to it that the household is well maintained is one of the very first critical factors of cohesiveness in the marriage. For example in Swahili culture and Islamic culture when decent maintenance is practiced in a home it indicates care and consideration in a marriage.
The concept of respect extends to communication and conduct in a marriage. Again the lines “kauli za kumjibu / ziwe laini tambua” give a reminder to the couple but especially to the wife of the fact that whilst speaking back to the husband, her words should be polite and come in gentle tones. The emphasis here on uttering kind words and maintaining good composure corresponds with the cultural inclination towards marriage as requiring harmony, respect and love. It affirms as well the notion that getting married is not only about satisfying one’s personal needs but also about ensuring that good relations are maintained for the sake of both spouses and their families.
The focus of the qaseeda goes beyond practical and emotional dynamics; it calls for decorum in moderation. “Kuvaa nako jaribu / nguo za heshima pia” teaches the bride how to carry herself in terms of dressing style and the attitude. But “shungi na nikabu”; this concern about dressing practices especially in relation to dresses like isbbh and kuzi i.e. shawls is because Islam encourages one to wear decent clothes.
