China is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. The country's history dates back more than 40,000 years. Its antiquity can be appreciated in the ancient villages set among the steep hills, in the palaces once inhabited by emperors or in the many traditional celebrations still alive after thousands of years. One of these celebrations are weddings. The family is considered the most important element in Chinese society. Therefore, weddings are grand affairs celebrated by those who participate in them and huge sums of money are spent on them. Because perpetuating the family lineage is essential for the Chinese, celibacy is an unknown concept in Chinese society. Not so long ago, most marriages were arranged by parents or matchmakers. The government also dictated laws regarding divorce and remarriage. Due to all the restrictions attributed to different traditions and laws, many marriages have never been able to achieve happiness. However, although some are still present, over time, traditional marriage customs and laws have changed in modern Chinese society. Ha Jin, in his novel Waiting, depicts the story of Lin Kong. Kong was a military doctor who tried to divorce his wife for ten years. Getting married and having children was considered a human duty and commitment. Everyone was expected to get married, even those who were physically disabled. As a result, Kong agreed to let his parents choose a bride for him “out of filial duty…” (Jin, 8) and decided to get married even though he only knew her through photos. However, after getting married, Kong was unhappy with his wife and after seeing her in real life, he regretted his decision. Years later, he fell in love with Manna who was a young nurse at the hospital...... middle of paper...... misfortune of the past. Even those who were able to divorce and marry those they loved found themselves unable to truly thrive. Although these laws and customs have changed over time, they are still practiced in some remote areas of China. Past or present, the family is something extremely important in Chinese society; therefore, everyone is encouraged to marry and continue their family lineage. Contrary to Western notions of self-centrality, Chinese people see themselves in relation to their family, their community, and their past. Works Cited Jin, Ha. In the meantime: a novel. New York: Vintage, 2000. Print. Knowles, Christopher. "Family." Fodor explores China. New York: Fodor's Travel Publications, 2005. 12-13. PrintHan, Lee. “How have Chinese wedding traditions changed in modern Chinese society.” Personal interview. April 7. 2014.