Do Gypsies Marry Their Cousins?

Cultural Practices and Cousin Marriage Among Gypsies

Among the diverse Roma communities, cousin marriage is a recognized and often practiced tradition. This practice varies significantly between different groups and regions, reflecting the rich and varied cultural norms of the Romani people. Whether it is widespread or less common, cousin marriage continues to be a significant aspect of certain Roma communities.

The decision to marry a cousin is not made lightly, as it is deeply rooted in cultural traditions, family ties, and social norms. Each community may have its own specific customs, beliefs, and reasons for practicing cousin marriage. Understanding these nuances is crucial to appreciating the complexity of the Romani culture.

Marrying at a Young Age: A Common Practice

It is common for Gypsy girls to get married at the age of 16 to 17, and boys at 18 to 19. Unlike in many other cultures, divorce is virtually unheard of in the Gypsy community. Marriages are seen as lifelong commitments. Those who decide to divorce face severe social and personal repercussions. Divorce is so uncommon that any woman who opts for it is branded with a lasting stigma. In essence, such a woman's chances of being remarried are severely diminished.

Chastity and Virginity Before Marriage

In the Gypsy community, the concept of a virgin bride is highly valued. A girl who loses her virginity before marriage faces social stigma and may even be abandoned by her fiancé. This belief is deeply ingrained in Gypsy culture and reflects the strong emphasis placed on maintaining honor and purity in young women. For a Gypsy man, marrying a woman who has been with another man is seen as a violation of cultural norms and is generally not accepted.

Precedence for Marriages Within the Community

Given the strong cultural values of the Gypsy community, marriages between representatives of other nationalities, often referred to as 'Gorger,' are highly frowned upon. The term 'Gorger' is used to describe individuals from other nationalities, primarily non-Roma individuals. Gypsy women who decide to marry a Gorger face significant cultural and societal pressures. However, there are also rare instances where a Gypsy girl may agree to such a marriage, primarily due to the cultural and familial pressures she faces.

Conclusion: The Enduring Customs of the Gypsy Community

In summary, cousin marriage is a part of the enduring customs of the Gypsy community. It is influenced by deep-seated cultural, social, and familial ties. While strong, the willingness of some Gypsy individuals to marry non-Roma or members of other clans highlights the evolving nature of these traditions. The community places a significant emphasis on maintaining cultural purity, strict family ties, and adherence to established cultural norms. Understanding and respecting these traditions is essential for anyone seeking to gain insight into the rich and diverse Gypsy culture.

Additional Information

For further exploration of Gypsy culture and customs, you may wish to delve into the following topics: Origin and history of the Roma people Other cultural practices unique to the Gypsy community The significance of family and community in Gypsy life How Gypsy culture has evolved over time