Wedding ring on the left hand
Wearing a wedding ring is a matter of course for most married people. It's an ancient custom that has an interesting history. Perhaps you have already asked yourself why the ring should sit on the finger of your left hand - does that have a special meaning? There is no clear answer to this question, but there are some exciting theories.
History and tradition of wedding rings
- The custom of wearing a ring on your finger as a sign and symbol of marriage is ancient. This tradition has been known for more than 4800 years, because it is said to have been cultivated by the ancient Egyptians. At that time, women adorned themselves with rings that they had woven from natural materials such as stalks, reeds or papyrus.
- Later, more durable and valuable materials were used to make wedding rings - for example leather, bone or ivory.
- The tradition of wedding rings was initially particularly popular in Europe. In the 20th In the 19th century, however, it also spread beyond its borders. In some countries (e.g. B. the USA) at first only women wore a ring as a symbolic symbol for the bond of marriage. It was only later that this tradition was cultivated by both spouses.
- With its circular shape, the ring is a symbol of infinity. He stands for the infinite and immortal love.
The fourth finger of the left hand symbolizes the hand-heart connection
- Throughout history, wedding rings have been worn on very different fingers, even on the thumb. Depending on the culture and customs, the right hand or the left hand was preferred.
- In most cultures, the ring is now worn on the fourth finger of the right or left hand. You are certainly very familiar with the term ring finger for this reason.
- It used to be believed in a direct connection through a vein or blood vessel from the ring finger of the left hand to the heart. This connection was also known as "vena amori" or "vena amoris". The tradition of wedding rings is said to have originated from this ancient belief. However, the theory of the "vena amoris" could not be scientifically proven.
- Another explanation could be derived from early Christian wedding ceremonies. The pastor ritually touched the thumb of the bride or groom, then the index finger and then the middle finger. The marriage covenant was sealed with an "Amen" and the ring was put on the next "free" finger, the ring finger.
- Tradition has it that after the marriage, the ring sits where it was put during the ceremony.
- However, the old custom could also have very practical reasons. Since most people are right-handed, a precious ring on the left hand wears less and quickly than on the right hand.
- In addition, the fourth finger, together with the little finger, is used the least often: it is therefore well suited for wearing decorative jewelry.
- In most western countries, according to customs and etiquette, the wedding ring belongs on the fourth finger of the left hand.
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