Wedding Ring Symbolism and World Culture
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Different cultures around the world offer varying insight into wedding ring symbolism. Throughout history, the wedding ring has represented different notions while maintaining a rather 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 a sign of owned property. Her need to remain faithful to the vows was considered greater than a man's need to remain faithful to the wedding vows. Infractions, in theory, could lead to death for a woman.
With special blessings and chants the ring could always be considered a form 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 possess protective powers and keep the wearer safe from harm and temptation. Many of us internally 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 is not shared by every culture. In some cultures the left hand is considered to be a weaker, less reliable hand. Initially, the ring was placed on the finger of choice because Ancient Romans believed 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 used to draw a sword, and later a gun. The left hand was considered to be the hand that represented a peaceful motion, and thereby could be trusted when it moved quickly or wildly. While this notion has passed with time for progressive cultures, there are still cultures that hold fast to the belief that the left hand is weaker and not as adept.
If you look at wedding ring symbolism throughout the world, most cultures still gravitate toward the single plain band that is remarkably simple. With the exception of Celtic weddings, the simple decor of the band was thought to announce a marriage regardless of the region a woman might find herself in. With a universal understanding there would be less temptation for infidelity.
Throughout world history and world cultures the wedding ring provides protection and announces the marriage in plain and clear language. There is no need for interpretation when a wedding ring is in sight. This has helped keep the symbolism of the wedding ring alive and thriving.
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