"With This Ring": The Symbolism Of Wedding Bands
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The most romantic and significant part of the wedding ceremony is the sharing of the wedding vows. It is during this time that the bride and groom declare their love and commitment to one another through the promises made in their individually spoken vows. Wedding bands are exchanged during this same time, as an outward symbol of the promises made between the bride and groom
A Tiny Symbol That Is Rich With Tradition
The history of the wedding band is undisputed for its ongoing importance and value in each culture. It is believed that wedding bands were originally made of strong metals to signify the strength of the vows made during the marriage. This practice and tradition continues to this day. In recent years however, many young couples have chosen to have their wedding bands tattooed upon their fingers as a sign of lifelong dedication to one another. While this idea is growing in popularity, it has not become widespread.
The Wedding Band Is A Sign Of Love's Promise
The practice of exchanging wedding bands during the marriage ceremony as a symbol of love and commitment is very old and is found in many different cultures. Due to the widespread traditional practice by so many different cultures it is difficult to locate the originating source. Wedding rings are recognized worldwide as the marital symbol for the circle of life and the unending image of love that never begins or ends but continues indefinitely. Many agree that the circular shape of wedding rings stands for the infinity of all things both within the wedding itself and in life.
The Wedding Band Is Placed In Line With The Heart
Ancient cultures believed that the third finger on the left hand contained a vein, the vena amoris, which was directly connected to the heart. By placing the wedding bands on this finger it established that the two individuals were now joined at the heart and would live one shared destiny. In most cultures the wedding band is still worn on this finger today as a sign of commitment to the marriage and love that was expressed on the wedding day.
Today, the wedding band is a sign that is honored and respected. In a society in which nearly half of all marriages end in divorce, the hand that wears a wedding band is a reflection of someone that is loyal and committed to the promises made to another.
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About the Author
Roland Jefferson is an online researcher based out of Los Angeles, California. For free resources covering Wedding Speech, please visit our Wedding Speech Resource.
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