Hindu Marriage: Why it`s Not Just a Contract, but a Sacrament
For Hindus, marriage is not just a legal agreement between two individuals, but a sacred bond that binds them together for life. In Hinduism, marriage is a sacrament that involves not only the bride and groom but also their families and communities. This is why Hindu marriage ceremonies are elaborate, filled with rituals and customs that symbolize the unification of two souls.
The Importance of Hindu Marriage
Hinduism views marriage as a holy union that aims to bring two people closer together and make them one entity. The ultimate goal of marriage, according to Hinduism, is to achieve oneness with the divine. This is why marriage is considered one of the most significant of the sixteen Hindu samskaras (sacraments) that are believed to determine one`s spiritual journey.
In Hinduism, marriage is not only a union of two individuals, but it is also a union of two families. The families of the bride and groom are considered equal partners in the marriage, and the ceremony is seen as a way of bringing the two families together. This is why weddings in Hindu culture are often grand affairs that involve the participation of the entire community.
The Rituals Involved in Hindu Marriage
Hindu marriage ceremonies involve several rituals that symbolize different aspects of the union. One of the most important rituals is the exchange of garlands, which signifies the acceptance of each other by the bride and groom. This is followed by the recitation of mantras, which seek the blessings of the divine for the couple.
Another significant ritual is the tying of the mangalsutra, which is a sacred thread made of gold and black beads. The mangalsutra symbolizes the unbreakable bond between the bride and the groom and is worn by the bride for the rest of her life.
Other rituals involved in the Hindu marriage ceremony include the exchange of gifts, the seven vows taken by the bride and groom, and the application of sindoor (vermilion) on the bride`s forehead by the groom.
Conclusion
In Hinduism, marriage is not just a contract but a sacrament that involves the union of two souls, two families, and the community as a whole. The rituals and customs involved in a Hindu marriage ceremony signify the spiritual and emotional bond between the bride and groom and the path towards oneness with the divine.
As a Hindu, one should remember that marriage is a sacred bond that requires respect, love, and understanding from both partners. It is not just a legal agreement between two individuals, but it is a lifelong commitment to each other and to the divine.