The idea that daughters become guests in their own father's house after marriage is rooted in cultural and societal norms that have existed in various parts of the world for centuries. This practice is often associated with traditional or patriarchal societies, where gender roles and expectations are strictly defined. There are several reasons why this belief or practice may have emerged:
Property and inheritance: In some cultures, the transfer of a daughter to her husband's home after marriage was seen as a way to ensure the continuity of property and inheritance within a family. It was believed that daughters, upon marriage, would join their husband's family and contribute to their household.
Patriarchal family structure: In patriarchal societies, the husband was considered the head of the household, and the daughter's role was to become a part of her husband's family and adopt their ways. This often resulted in a shift of allegiance from the daughter's birth family to her husband's family.
Economic reasons: In agrarian societies, a daughter's marriage could involve the exchange of dowries or bride prices, leading to a perception that she was leaving her father's home to become a part of her husband's family.
Cultural traditions and norms: Many societies have ingrained cultural traditions that dictate the way marriages are conducted, including the concept of a bride leaving her parental home and becoming a part of her husband's family.
Social conditioning: Throughout history, women have been expected to leave their birth families upon marriage due to societal conditioning, and this practice has been perpetuated over generations.
It is important to note that these practices and beliefs are not universally applicable in all cultures and societies, and attitudes have evolved significantly in many parts of the world. In modern and more egalitarian societies, the concept of daughters becoming guests in their father's house after marriage is often challenged and may not be applicable at all.
Contemporary perspectives on marriage emphasize partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibilities between spouses. Many couples choose to live independently or decide to live with either partner's family based on practical considerations and personal preferences. The notion of a daughter being a guest in her father's house after marriage is gradually losing prominence as societies move toward more inclusive and equitable views of relationships and family dynamics.