Where does the tradition of exchanging wedding rings come from?

Answer 1

Actually there are conflicting ideas as to the origin of the wedding ring. Let us give a few examples:

* "Originally the ring was a fetter (a handcuff), used to bind the captive bride." (For Richer, forPoorer)

* "The ring is a relatively modern substitute for the gold coin or other article of value with which a man literally purchased his wife from her father." (The Jewish WeddingBook)

* "The wedding ring is supposed to be of Roman origin, and to have sprung from the ancient custom of using rings in making agreements." (American Cyclopædia)

* "Various explanations have been given of the connection of the ring with marriage.

* "It would appear that wedding-rings were worn by the Jews prior to Christian times."-The InternationalCyclopaedia.

It is thus seen that the precise origin of the wedding ring is uncertain.

Answer 2

The meaning of the wedding ring can be traced back almost 5,000 years. It is said the wedding ring tradition was first originated by the Egyptians who some 4,800 years ago twisted plant material (such as hemp) into rings and bracelets. They believed the round symbolism of wedding rings was linked to an eternal love with no end. Use of the wedding band symbol is mentioned in the hieroglyphics on the walls of Egyptian tombs as translated by archaeologists.

Answer 3

EGYPTIANS The now-famous wedding band is thought to have originated in ancient Egypt, where it is said that plant sections were fashioned in to circles to signify never-ending and immortal love. It was thought that the fourth finger (which we now know as the ring finger) contained a special vein that was connected directly to the heart, and therefore this became the official finger for the wedding band. http://ezinearticles.com/?The-History-of-Engagement-Rings-and-Wedding-Bands&id=24579

Answer 4

It's from the Greek mythology. Zeus punished Prometheus for stealing fire, test Ka Susi him strapped in the mountains, an eagle flew to the mountain every day, pecking out his internal organs, to the night, he will lose the organ re-grow back. Later, vigorously Shihaigehe kill Chris Eagles, will he freed his original bondage chains turned it into his ring. Later, the ring means two people stay together in loyalty. so back in Roman times, men and women wearing the ring has become a way of mutual commitment.

Answer 5

The tradition of exchanging wedding rings has been contrived from many different cultures as far back as prehistoric times. The process that we celebrate today is most likely to have originated from the ancient Romans who would place a ring on the left hands third finger (ring finger as we know it) which has a vein that leads directly to the heart, and this tradition was passed down from country to country and generations beyond.

Answer 6

The ring in marriage are of pagan origin, and sanctified by it's adoption into the church.

Answer 7

The tradition of exchanging weddings ring originated in Italy almost 2000 years ago making it one of the older wedding traditions.