Handfasting

traditions · weddings · history · symbols

Hands bound together. In handfasting, a couple clasps or symbolically binds their hands together to make their marriage or betrothal official. The joining of hands represents their commitment and promise to one another.

Ancient practice worldwide. Handfasting has been used across many cultures and time periods as a way to mark the beginning of a marriage or engagement. Different cultures developed their own versions of this meaningful ritual.

Symbolic not literal. While sometimes hands are actually tied together with cloth or rope, the ritual is really about the symbolic meaning of two people joining together. The binding represents their bond more than anything else.

Still used today. Even though handfasting is ancient, some modern couples choose to include it in their wedding ceremonies. They like that it connects them to history while making a personal promise to each other.

Words and witnesses matter. Handfasting ceremonies usually include spoken vows and witnesses to make the commitment official. The public nature of the ritual made the promise binding and important to the community.