My Nikkah ceremony was truly memorable because it took place at the Holy Ka’aba, located in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Millions of pilgrims travel to Mecca every year to perform their pilgrimage or Hajj. The nikkah ceremony is basically where two representatives act as lawyers for the bride and the groom and perform a contract between the two, with witnesses.
We decided to do the nikkah at night time, when it would be least crowded and less attention would be drawn. Everyone had gathered around on small folding chairs. I was seated next to our Moulana (my representative) on my left side, and my mother on my right. I remember being so nervous I was shaking throughout the ceremony, and my eyes were glued to the floor, and never rose until it was all over. I remember saying yes quietly and signing the papers with trembling fingers. Then I remember crying into my mom’s shoulder after it was done.
After the Nikkah ceremony was finished, everyone congratulated myself, my husband and our family members. There were lots of hugs, kisses and blessings. It caused somewhat of a commotion, and there were plenty of onlookers who noticed there was something going on. I received kisses from several strangers that day. My husband and I walked around the Ka’aba seven times, which is one part of Hajj and Umrah known as Tawaf. We walked together for the first time as a married couple, and I’ll never forget how nervous and excited I was at the same time.
Stay tuned for more wedding posts..i’m not quite done with them yet!