Different cultures throughout the planet offer varying insight into wedding ring symbolism. Throughout history, the wedding ring has represented different notions while maintaining a fairly common theme. The circle of the ring is continuous, meant to be without a single seam. This represents the continuous nature of marriage, vows, and love.
There have been times throughout history, in varying cultures, where the woman accepted the ring as an indication of being owned. Her need to stay faithful to the vows was considered to be greater than a man’s need to stay true to the wedding vows. Infractions, in theory, could lead to death for a woman.
Throughout history there have been mystical significance associated with the wearing of rings. They were once believed to have protective or magical powers of protection for anybody who wore them. Blessing them or chanting and canting were considered to convey an extra protective capability. In conventional wedding ceremonies of just about all denominations the rings are blessed before they’re exchanged. This tradition dates back to the days where the rings supplied protection.
Not all wedding rings go on the customary third finger of the left hand. While this is still the most typical choice, it is not shared by every society. In some cultures the left hand is thought to be a weaker, less reliable hand. At first, the ring was placed on the finger of choice because Ancient Romans believed that the heart was connected to the finger by way of an uninterrupted artery.
Certainly, there are plenty of left handed theories that contribute to the continued custom. Rings and watches frequently go on the left hand as a symbol of peace. The right hand was considered the sword hand, and a sudden movement with the right hand could lead to the perception of danger. The left hand was considered a hand that had restricted dexterity and thereby could be depended on if it made a move. That premise is clearly disputed by left handed individuals.
Today’s customs are still steeped in these ideas notwithstanding 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 little adorning. Celtic custom calls for a beautifully crafted ring full of personal ornamentation. Most historians think that the simple clean band was decided to be a symbol that could not be confused when a woman was traveling or outside of her protective territory.
Throughout world history and world cultures the wedding ring offers protection and announces the marriage in plain and clear language. There’s no need for interpretation when a wedding ring is in sight. This has helped keep the symbolism of the wedding ring alive and thriving.
Buying a wedding ring used to be so easy. There weren’t many choices; it was pretty much yellow or white gold, with perhaps a bit of etching on the band. These days, though, there are so many choices it can seem overwhelming. Learn more about what’s available at Best Wedding Rings.
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