SYMBOLS OF MARRIAGE IN HINDUISM

THE MOST IMPORTANT SYMBOLS
OF A HINDU MARRIAGE FOR WOMEN

www.boldsky.com - There are many symbols of marriage that signify certain important facets of Hinduism. Most of these symbols are for women. We do not know why the system of Hindu marriage does not brand men as 'married'. But the symbols that are held sacred by a married woman are fascinating to explore. Some of the symbols of a Hindu marriage are, Bindi: It is a bright dot of red color applied in the center of the forehead close to the eyebrows. Bindi has a strong religious implication and is a sacred symbol of a married woman. Vermilion or Sindoor: Vermilion is a red coloured powder that is applied in the parting of the hair by married women. It is also called 'kum kum' in some parts of India. This sign of marriage is more or less consistent among women from all over India. Sindoor is symbolic of the red flame of Sati and Parvati, both forms of Shati. It is supposed to give power and determination to a wife. Mangalsutra: This is the thread that binds a woman forever to her husband. The black beads of a mangalsutra are supposed to ward of the evil eye. At is also for the 'mangal' or 'wellbeing' of a woman's husband. 

Thali: This is the South Indian equivalent of a mangalsutra. It is primarily made of a cotton thread. In case of Tamilians the thread is yellowed with turmeric. It contains many other elements like coral, black beads etc. Toe Rings: Most Indian women wear 'bichiya' or toe rings on their second toe after marriage. This symbol of marriage reminds a woman of her marital status and the restrictions that come with it. Even if a married woman wants to transcend the limits of her 'maryada' (set of rules that defines her dignity) then the toe ring warns her not to defy her boundaries. Bangles: After a Hindu marriage is communed, the wife is never supposed to leave her arms bare. She must always wear bangles to signify that she is married. Some women wear red or green glass bangles. It is called 'shringar' or making yourself attractive for your husband. Gold, silver or bangles of other materials can also be worn for shringar.

A Hindu married woman has not one but many symbols of marriage to maintain in the long run. All these symbols of a Hindu marriage have a specific meaning and significance. Bengali women wear a pair of red and white bangles made of coral and conch respectively. Conch is keeps the temper of a woman calm (as it traditionally should be) and coral improves the blood circulation. The significance of Sindoor or vermilion is also psycho-sexual; it contains mercury that stirs sexual desire. Although every community has its own kind of Mangalsutra, it is always made of gold and black beads. To make the Bindi look utmost attractive, it can be decorated with red and white dots around it and along the eyebrows. A Hindu wedding is a combination of traditions and rituals. It is a ceremony from the Vedic times.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US? 

The Hindu seers of the ancient times invented a very ingenious method of tying the wedding knot. There is perhaps no other example of creating a bond that goes beyond the mortal life on this earth than with the Hindu man and his wife. According to Hindu scriptures, marriage is a duty. Non-performance renders the individual as incomplete. It is based on the principles of love, sacrifice, and service to build a good family and lay a strong foundation for noble society. ... The bridal couple takes “satpadi” - seven steps together for the seven vows: • Together we will share in the responsibility of the home. • Together we will fill our hearts with strength and courage. • Together we will prosper and share our worldly goods. • Together we will fill our hearts with love, peace, happiness, and spiritual values. • Together we will be blessed with loving children. • Together we will attain self-restraint and longevity. • Together we will be best friends and eternal partners.

Dr. Hiro Badlani:
“Hinduism - Path of the Ancient Wisdom”
Chapter 50: “Hindu Wedding”
“Nuptials for Eternity”  -  http://hinduismpath.com/
http://hinduismpath.com/book-contents/chapter-50/

Published by dasavatara das - "Vedic Views on World News"
http://www.vedicviews-worldnews.blogspot.com.ar/