Among ancient wedding customs, it occupies a special place Handfasting <TAG1> symbolic rite — hand binding“, which means the union of two people in marriage. The tradition is of Celtic origin and combines deep meaning, simplicity and beauty of ritualism.
What is Handfasting?
Word handfasting comes from Old English handfæstung <TAG1> — hand fastening“. During the ceremony, the hands of the bride and groom are tied with ribbon, rope or cloth, creating a “unity knot”. This is where the English expression comes from “tying the knot” (“knit knot”), which nowadays means getting married.
How is the tradition going?
Depending on the culture or modern interpretation, the rite may look different. Most often, newlyweds face each other holding hands, and the host or loved ones tie their palms with ribbons. The number of knots or fabric colors also have a symbolic meaning of —, for example, red represents love and passion, green — harmony, blue — loyalty.
Origin
Handfasting originated among the Celts in pre-Christian times. In the Middle Ages in Scotland, this rite was often used as a “trial marriage”: the couple could live together for a year and a day, after which they decided whether to officially enter into an alliance. Later, the tradition merged with official wedding ceremonies or disappeared under the influence of the church, but its memory was preserved in folk legends.
Modern meaning
Today, Handfasting is being revived as a symbolic element of wedding ceremonies in Europe and the United States. It is chosen by couples who want to add ancient customs, spirituality or non-standard rites to their wedding. It became especially popular among supporters of neo-pagan currents, as well as among those interested in Celtic culture.
Many modern wedding agencies offer Handfasting as an additional ritual“to the classic ceremony.
Among the Celts, this rite was often performed outdoors, near a hearth or a sacred tree.
In Scotland and Ireland, handfasting is today recognized as part of official wedding ceremonies.
