Marriage is not limited to being an Islamic or Christian concept. You will find sacred matrimony in every religion and culture world-wide, which is why Islam recognises foreign marriage as being valid if that a non Muslim were to convert. The need for marriage is undeniable. It protects the rights for both man and woman and both parties are obliged to perform their duties first and foremost before anything. Unfortunately, western modern day culture promotes ‘love before anything’ mindset, which is toxic and unrealistic, as love fluctuates constantly and bad patches are inevitable. Thus marriage, with ones primary concern being performing his duty - while neither negating the love aspect, stabilises relationships with rules that will guarantee success if one were to abide to them will courtesy. Marriage also safeguards honour and chastity, nowadays we see promiscuity being promoted which indicates a breakdown of culture and civilisation. Human beings are creatures that NEED to be bound by laws, we cannot govern ourself. Marriage has been performed since the beginning of humanity and will continue to be performed.