Couple Rings Set as a symbol: This is what the meaning behind the ring exchange
Since the beginning of time rings have been exchanged in marriage ceremonies. Wedding rings, that had an entirely different meaning in the past, are now considered as a symbol for the love, loyalty and commitment in a partnership. This article will explain everything you need about wedding rings and their meaning. It will also explain the customs that surround ring exchange.
Wedding rings as symbols a brief history
In the past the ring was only presented at marriage to the woman. This was done to show that the woman was a member of either a family or a man. The ring was often used to show that a man was the one who received the woman's inheritance. This ring was usually constructed of iron and was given to the woman.
In 855, the custom of exchanging rings was reversed. Pope Nicholas I declared that the rings were an Christian symbol of eternal love and marriage. The couple who was to marry put a ring on each other's fingers during the wedding ceremony and vowed the other a lifetime of love and fidelity before God.
Since the 13th century at current time wedding ring has been a crucial element of a wedding. Since then it has been a symbol of love and loyalty in the context of a relationship. While traditionally, wedding rings were only exchanged during weddings at the church. The newlyweds have been putting rings on one another's hands at the registry office for a long time.
Why is the ring a symbol of marriage?
The single ring, with its continuous curve, represents the infinity of marriage. The two intertwined rings, on the other hand, represent the deep bond between the two people who are married, and can only be broken in the event that one of the rings were destroyed. The two intertwined rings are often used as a symbol or a logo for everything related to the wedding.
Superstitions and customs that surround the exchange of rings
There are certain customs concerning the exchange of rings, but there is also a bit of superstition. Get to know the most well-known below.
Which hand is the ring worn on?
The answer to this question is different between different countries. While in German-speaking countries it is traditionally worn on the right hand, in other countries like Italy or the USA it is more popular on the left hand.
The ancient Romans also wore their wedding ring on the left hand because they believed a vein of love could be traced from the left ring finger directly to the heart. However, every couple must decide for themselves where the rings will ultimately be worn.
Wearing the identical rings
One custom that's perhaps less well-known is that of wearing the identical wedding rings. According to this custom newlyweds must wear identical rings, if they can, made from the same material, design, etc. The only thing that can be different is the size. This is viewed as a symbol of agreement within the family and also the bond that couples create at the time of the wedding.
Wedding rings that are exactly the same in style and design is also considered to be the first small test of the union: one's personal interests and tastes are put aside for the sake of the marriage and all decisions are made in the spirit of "we".
Do not wear wedding rings
According to another tradition wedding rings must be new and not worn by anyone else. There is a belief that wearing other people's wedding rings can cause bad luck for the couple involved. This is also true when one gives away their wedding rings. It is believed that if one allows friends to wear the wedding ring, that partner will cheat one day.
Rings are a signification for putting them on
The act of putting the rings on is believed to reveal the future of the marriage. It is said that if the ring slips over the woman's finger easily, then the man is in the control. If it remains in middle of the ring, then the woman is in control.
The wedding ring is lost
Another belief is that the wedding ring should not be lost or dropped, because it could bring bad luck or cause the end of a marriage.
The ring exchange has been associated with religious practices
When it comes to the exchange of rings, there are different ways to exchange rings based on religion. Learn more about it here.
Wedding rings in Christianity
In a variety of Christian church writings in the church, the two intertwined rings symbols are used to represent the union. The marriage can only be broken if one of them were to break - it is a symbol of "until death do you part". The rings are blessed before the ceremony, and are then exchanged shortly following the ceremony. The bride and groom will be blessed.
Wedding rings in Judaism
In an traditional Jewish wedding ceremony, the bride is presented with the so-called wedding ring from her husband underneath the chuppah, a wedding canopy. The custom is that it must be simple, with no engravings or stones. The bride is not allowed to place a ring onto the groom's finger underneath the chuppah.
After the wedding the bride can receive a ring that has been decorated by her husband. She may also present a ring as a gift to her spouse.
Wedding rings in Islam
In Islam, the wedding ceremony itself is usually rather simple. It's not uncommon for only the two couples to be married and two witnesses to appear before the imam to announce their personal decision to marry. The celebrations that follow are a major part of the wedding celebrations for many couples and can be extended for a number of days.
Muslim couples also wear rings to symbolize their wedding. According to the Koran the Koran, men aren't allowed to wear gold. Wedding rings are more likely to consist of materials such as palladium, titanium, or platinum.