Egyptian Laws and Social Customs

Ancient Egyptian women held various jobs in addition to the household work. Some women were educated and worked as scribes or physicians.

Customs and traditions governed ancient Egyptian marriage and divorce.

The chief wives of kings were mostly chosen from the royal family, but some kings married daughters of high officials of non-royal blood, while other kings married foreign princesses.

Greek and Egyptian legislation was different in regard to the social status and independence enjoyed by women.

The bond of marriage is an important principle of the Christian Church as the family is considered to be the building block of a healthy society.

Islam gives women great privileges and rights. The Qur'an considers men and women to be equal partners in sharing the responsibilities of Muslim life.

During the Mamluk period, most men seeking marriage enlisted the help of a khatbah, or matchmaker. The ruling Mamluks, however, could choose brides from young women of their same ethnic background who had come to Egypt via the slave trade.