Aghd
The Persian marriage ceremony, when the couple's consent is asked and the contract is signed.
Also: aqd, aghd-e nikah, aqd-e nikah
Aghd, from the Arabic aqd, meaning tie or contract, is the legal and religious marriage ceremony of Iranians, which is held before the party. The cleric or officiant asks the bride three times if she consents, and by custom she waits before answering, to be coaxed by the guests with gifts, while the groom's agreement is given at once. The contract states the mahr, called mehrieh in Iran, and the witnesses sign. It is held at the sofreh aghd, a decorated spread laid on the floor.
Region: Middle East