Understanding the Symbolic Nature of the Wedding Ring

The true symbolism of the wedding ring varies considerably when you compare various cultures. Nevertheless, those that use plain bands each appear to ...


The true symbolism of the wedding ring varies considerably when you compare various cultures. Nevertheless, those that use plain bands each appear to share a common theme of unremitting love, devotion, and a universal understanding of the constant renewal of the wedding vows.

During history there’s evidence that the ring was only placed on a woman’s hand because she was considered to be owned and she was faithful to her vows. Flouting her commitment could essentially entail death.

With special blessings and chants the ring could always be considered a type of protection. We still carry a part of this theory with us during a wedding ceremony when the rings themselves are blessed. This is thought to be a symbolic understanding that a ring can have protective powers and keep the wearer safe from injury and temptation. Many of us on the inside still feel very strongly about the nature of our wedding ring, as it can feel like a symbol of protection on a purely emotional level.

Not all wedding rings go on the traditional third finger of the left hand. While this is still the most common choice, it’s not shared by every society. In some cultures the left hand is thought to be a weaker, less dependable hand. Initially, the ring was placed on the finger of choice since Ancient Romans felt that the heart was connected to the finger via an uninterrupted artery.

Throughout history the left hand was not a fighting hand. The right hand could be utilized to draw a sword, and later a gun. The left hand was considered to be the hand that denoted a peaceful motion, and thus could be trusted when it moved rapidly or wildly. While this notion has passed with time for progressive cultures, there are still cultures that hold fast to the opinion that the left hand is weaker and not as adroit.

Present day customs are still steeped in these ideas despite a larger understanding of left handedness. Wedding ring symbolism continues to include the appearance of the ring. Most societies use a simple, clean band with not much adorning. Celtic custom requires a beautifully crafted ring filled with personal ornamentation. Most historians think that the plain clean band was decided to be a symbol that could not be mixed up when a woman was traveling or outside of her protective territory.

Throughout world history and world cultures the wedding ring provides protection and announces the marriage in plain and clear language. There’s no need for explanation when a wedding ring is in sight. This has helped keep the symbolism of the wedding ring alive and thriving.

Buying a wedding ring can be a difficult task. There are so many styles and price ranges that you can go crazy trying to make sense of it all. So get some help. Visit the Best Wedding Bands site for the information you need.

Tags: wedding ring symbolism, weddings, wedding rings

Comments are closed.