HMONG MARRIAGE SONGS
DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE
Orally recited Hmong marriage songs play an intrinsic role in the Hmong marriage ceremony.
One example of an important Hmong marriage song is “Zaj Coj Nkauj Yab Nraug Vauv Los Rau Niam Txiv Hauv Tsev” (bringing the bride to the groom’s family). This orally recited song is performed in the traditional Hmong wedding ceremony by the Mej Koob (Marriage Facilitator) when he or she presents the bride and groom to the groom’s family. The song is intended to bring the new couple luck and a successful marriage. The song is usually performed with an umbrella in the traditional Hmong marriage ceremony. The umbrella itself represents the unification of the two clans (families) in the new marriage.
Click this link to watch a video clip of the role of the umbrella in the traditional Hmong marriage ceremony:
Video clips of recited Hmong marriage songs are coming soon to the Learn about Hmong Website.
Permission
to use the materials on the Hmong Center website on other websites
or for non-personal educational or research purposes must be received
in advanced from the Hmong Center.
