Isaac gave many gifts to Rebekah and her family, like jewelry and costly clothing (Gen. 24: 53). In patrilineal African culture, the man pays lobola (the bride price) to the family. In the past this came through cattle. Now it’s usually cash.
In Western culture, men also pay lobola in the form of an engagement ring, and it’s given to his fiancée, not her parents. Both of these practices show that the man is serious. He’s put skin in the game to show that he won’t back out before the wedding. He’s proving that he can be trusted and can provide.
There’s debate about the virtues of lobola. Certainly, there are many benefits. (1) It can build a relationship between two families. (2) It can show gratitude to the parents of the bride. (3) It can demonstrate love and commitment to the bride. (4) It can help preserve African culture. (5) It requires the man to show responsibility and respect. (6) It pictures the way Christ loved the church. (7) It follows the examples of Scripture.
There are weakness to lobola as well. (1) It can make the women feel like property. (2) It can delay marriage. (3) It can encourage greed. (4) It can encourage debt. (5) It can encourages bitterness. (6) It can encourage fornication.
Whether a man buys a ring for his fiancée or cattle for her parents, a man should approach marriage with an open hand, giving beforemarriage to prove that he can provide during marriage.
Summary: Godly young men should give generously to his bride-to-be to demonstrate his commitment.