Betrothal (also called espousal)'s a formal state of engagement to be married. Historically betrothal was a formal contract, blessed or officiated by a religious authority. Betrothal was binding as marriage and a divorce was necessary to terminate a betrothal. Betrothed couples were regarded legally as husband and wife - even before their wedding and physical union. Betrothal's no longer common beyond some Arab cultures, in Judaism and in Islam. In Jewish weddings the betrothal's called ק… (More on Betrothal)