Kettering PTA Group

WEDDING RINGS: A SYMBOL PACKED WITH IMPORTANCE

A wedding is a day of celebration rich in tradition and symbolism. Some ancient traditions have been discarded or rediscovered as time passes, while others remain firmly tied to the solemn ceremony of marriage.

One of the most significant and emotional moments during an event is the exchange of wedding rings.

In a handshake The two spouses vow one another a lifetime of love in front of family and friends and swear their vows by gifting each another an engagement ring.

What meaning is hidden behind these golden rings? Why is this moment so full of meaning?

THE EXCHANGE of RINGS

Faith is derived from the Latin word "fidem" which translates to "trust". The etymology speaks for itself. The wedding ring symbolizes the essentials of marriage. Through the exchange of rings the couples pledge to each other respect, trust, and love, with the assurance that it will be in place for all time.

Wedding rings were the symbol of union even for the earliest civilizations. The barbarians, Egyptians and the Greeks used the rings as a symbol for the union of faith and love. In Roman times, rings made of iron, swore the wedding vows of young couples.

The wedding ring began to take its current form and the meaning we have in the 16th century. It was in this period that wedding rings were made in yellow gold, which has since been a symbol of permanence for the Catholic faith.

Etiquette

In accordance with the etiquette code Wedding rings must be purchased by the groom or presented as a gift to the witnesses. The rings are given to the male witness to the groom, who is responsible for taking them to the place where the wedding will take place. The bridesmaids, page boys, and bridesmaids will then be given rings placed on a beautiful cushion for the ring. They will lead the bride on the wedding procession.

Tradition has it that it is bad luck for the bride to wear rings prior the wedding ceremony, and to purchase both the wedding band and the engagement ring at once.

Left ring finger

Have you ever wondered the reason why a wedding band is worn on the left ring? There is a very romantic explanation that is connected to this custom. According to a popular myth, the "vena amoris" or love vein runs through the left ring-finger beginning at the finger on the hand and ending at the heart.

In reality, the wedding ring is not placed on the left finger in all countries. In some Northern European countries, such as Serbia, Poland and Russia, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand. In the past, wedding rings were worn on the thumb in England. Even today, in some Latin American countries, the wedding ring is always placed on the ring finger of the right hand.

Wedding rings are full of meaning traditions, tradition, and old beliefs. They contain promises of expectation, customs, and rituals. It is a symbol of pure, genuine love. It's also a living reminder of the promise.