The Sacrament of Marriage is great,’ says the Gospel. But to what extent do we truly understand the real symbolism of marriage? Below, we resolve all your questions.
The rings:
The rings according to their shape, symbolize eternal love , the strength of the relationship and the union of the bride and groom. The circle is a shape without beginning and end, which is why it is considered a symbol of perfection. In the case of the groom it indicates the unbroken chain of generations, through the mystery of the couple ‘s union. Historically it is believed that it was the Egyptians who first wore wedding rings, on the middle finger of the hand.
The blessing of the rings:
During the ceremony, the bride and groom are blessed with rings, three times each. The rings will be passed on the third finger of the right hand. The best man alternates the rings three times, to indicate the unconditional acceptance of one from each other and the spirit of mutual support.
The crowns:
Crowns are royal symbols. With marriage , a new”kingdom” is created, the couple ‘s home and family. The Priest after blessing the crowns on the Holy Gospel, makes the sign of the Cross on the heads of the engaged couple.
The Coronation:
The best man changes the crowns three times to symbolize equality , dignified and amoeba love coronation. The round shape of the wreaths keeps the existence of evil away from the couple.
Wine:
The wine offered by the priest during the sacrament and drinks the couple from the same cup, is a symbol of the life they decided to share.
The joining of hands:
The right hand of the groom will be joined to the right hand of the bride, while God unites them in one strand, crowns them in one flesh and conveys to them the joy of having children. Their hands will remain joined throughout the ceremony.
The dance of Isaiah:
Holding the Holy Gospel, the Priest guides the newlyweds around the wedding ceremony area, three times in the name of the Holy Trinity. The rotary movement symbolizes eternity and the faithful following of Christ by the couple. These are the first steps that the newlyweds take together.
Rice:
The rice with which the guests sew the the couple during the ceremony is a blessing for the newlyweds to take root and have life flourishing in all areas of their life together, but also in the creation of their own family.
Puff pastries:
Their roots come from ancient Greece . But back then they used to grind almonds and mix them with honey. Bittersweet symbolize the joys and sorrows of marriage. Even the almond symbolizes fertility and the heirs that the couple will have. The odd number of couplets is indivisible, just like the lives of the bride and groom.
The bridal bouquet:
The wedding bouquet is the groom ‘s statement to the bride that she is the flower in his life and that he will ensure her a life full of love and happiness. The bride later, will throw her bouquet to some single friend so she can have luck on her side. That is why it is said that whoever catches the bouquet will be the next to get married.
The veil:
The covering of a woman’s face is considered a sign of submission and at the same time purity, from ancient times to the present day. The veil was also used to give protection the couple from the evil eye or evil spells.
The candles:
Candles make their appearance in the depths of ancient Greek times. They are lit in the church and carried from there lit. They signify the Divine Enlightenment that the husband and wife receivefrom their light.
The bridesmaids:
The bridesmaids are the representatives of the people, of God, the church and witnesses to the promise of love and unity between the couple. They surround the husband and wife with their love.
The guests:
Finally, the presence of guests is not only related to the social obligation to participate in the Sacrament of the Marriage of two people. The meaning is deeper. The Church takes part in the Sacrament of Matrimony with her presence and foreknowledge.
