INTRODUCTION

Marriage remains important as the socially sanctioned bond in a sexual relationship. Marriage is usually understood as a male-female relationship designed to produce children and successfully socialize them. Historically, most societies have allowed some form of polygamy. The West is a major exception. Europe and the United States have defined themselves as monogamous cultures. This was in part a Germanic cultural tradition, a requirement of Christianity (after the sixth century CE), and a mandate of Roman Law.

According to the book:

Marriage may be defined as formal and durable sexual union of one or more women to one or more men, which is conducted within a set of designed rights and duties.

According to Family code of the Philippines:

Marriage is a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman entered into in accordance with law for the establishment of conjugal and family life. It is the foundation of family and an inviolable social institution whose nature, consequences and incidents are governed by law and not subject to stipulation, except that marriage within the limits provided by this codes.

Why people marry???

To have a permanent relationship with the person you love .

To beget children and have happy family

For economic and social upliftment or insurance

Marriage (contract)
It is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged in a variety of ways
It depends on the culture or subculture in which it is found.

Such a union, often formalized via a wedding ceremony, may also be called matrimony. Creates normative or legal obligations between the individuals involved. Recognized by the state, a religious authority, or both.

History of Marriage
Marriage pre-dates recorded history. Rules of marriage have changed over time.
Depends on culture or demography

Reasons for marriage include:

Mans need for paternity of children, Exclusive right over a woman and legitimacy of relationship.
In almost all societies, access to women is institutionalized.