The idea put forward by Minister of Interior Mazen Al-Faraya — reconsidering deep-rooted social customs, especially in light of the economic burdens weighing heavily on families and young people — is a bold step that carries both challenges and opportunities. It can also be seen as a responsible and wise attempt to anticipate reality and ease the pressures that now threaten the community’s economic and psychological stability.
اضافة اعلان
Traditions that once expressed joy and sorrow have turned into a financial prison restraining the lives of many, particularly the youth, who are facing increasing difficulties in securing life’s basic necessities.
On the other hand, some may view this as overreach or interference in profound social and cultural matters, which could face popular resistance or division between supporters and opponents. Social customs are not merely rituals; they are part of identity, dignity, and mutual respect within society. Therefore, the success of this initiative depends on its ability to engage all segments of society through open dialogue, rather than by imposing decisions or offering superficial criticism.
In my view, what Al-Faraya proposed is not a mistake in itself, but rather a necessary opening for a long-neglected discussion, whose burdens have weighed heavily on society. The outcome, however, depends on how this proposal is transformed into an effective national dialogue that balances respect for traditions with the demands of modern life.
The financial costs of social customs in Jordan have become a burden that threatens family stability and weighs on young people striving for a decent life. From weddings to funerals, these occasions have turned into costly competitions for appearances, far removed from their true essence.
The initiative does not seek to impose forced changes, but calls for a comprehensive national dialogue involving tribal leaders, institutions, and youth, with the aim of drafting a “social honor charter” that restores balance between what we are accustomed to and what our current circumstances allow. Among its key proposals: shortening mourning periods, limiting extravagance in banquets, reducing dowries, regulating tribal delegations (jahat), and ending displays of “political influence” in occasions that do not require it.
What distinguishes this initiative is its deep connection to religious and ethical values, drawing on prophetic teachings that encourage simplicity and humility, far from extravagance, which has no place in our faith. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The most blessed women are those with the least burden,” and “The less the dowry, the greater the blessing.” The essence is moderation and ease, not waste and ostentation.
Today, many young men and women avoid marriage not due to lack of desire, but out of fear of financial burdens beyond their means. Families, too, are drowning in debt because of traditions that do not reflect their reality. Although many privately agree these customs have become suffocating, they fear criticizing them openly lest they lose social standing.
This is why a guiding role from the government is needed to open the door for society to return to the simplicity of its values, and to create a cultural environment that redefines traditions so that they serve people, not hinder them.
Ultimately, this initiative carries a clear message: marriage should be the start of a life, not the beginning of debt and hardship; condolences should be a time for mourning and comfort, not displays that burden the poor even more. If intentions are sincere and society itself takes the lead, this initiative could mark a turning point reflecting collective awareness that traditions are meant to refine, not to dictate, and that our true identity is measured by the spirit of solidarity, honesty, and dignity in living.
