A Neo pagan handfasting ceremony is a spiritual union and commitment ritual that draws inspiration from ancient pagan traditions. This ceremony symbolizes a couple's dedication to each other and their intention to be bound together in love and partnership. While the specific practices and beliefs can vary among different neo pagan traditions, handfasting ceremonies generally involve the binding of the couple's hands with ribbon or cord, signifying their unity and the joining of their lives. Neo paganism is a modern religious movement that seeks to revive and reinterpret the practices and beliefs of pre-Christian European pagan cultures. Many neo pagans reject the patriarchal aspects of traditional marriage ceremonies and instead opt for handfasting, which allows for more egalitarian and personalized expressions of commitment. In this context, handfasting represents a conscious choice to create a partnership based on love, equality, and mutual respect.
In this context, handfasting represents a conscious choice to create a partnership based on love, equality, and mutual respect. Handfasting ceremonies often take place in nature or sacred outdoor spaces, reflecting the neo pagan emphasis on connection with the natural world. They may incorporate elements such as the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water), symbolic gestures, and rituals honoring deities or spirits.
Ivy the Witch!
So I bet none of you (save adventuresofthegoddess) knew I was a wedding planner in my free time did you? Well, I am. So here is a bit of information and some resources on Handfastings.
A Handfasting is an alternative wedding ceremony that is not legally binding (although it can be if performed by a qualified individual) They are traditionally a form of a Trial Marriage, lasting a year and a day, or another predetermined period of time. The Bride and Groom will live together and do all the things married couples do but on a dry run, if at the end of the set time frame they decide it isn’t the right fit, they can perform a handparting (kind of like a divorce) and no one is offended or hurt by it. (that is the idea anyway, it doesn’t always turn out that way)
At its heart a Handfasting is a ritual, performed by a close family friend or relative or Priest/ess. It involves many of the same elements a more mainstream wedding has, bridesmaids, groomsmen, walking down the aisle (which is a bit more circular in shape).
What makes a handfasting different is, the time it is binding obviously, and the binding itself. Within most Wiccan circles, the Fasting cords are comprised of 3 colored ribbons or lengths of cloth, each standing for a representation of God, Goddess, and Unity as one in love. The colors are not set in stone, but Red for Unity as one in love, Silver for Goddess, and Gold for God are very common. Other traditions simply use one color that coordinates with the couples wedding color scheme.
Handfastings are not unique to Neo-Paganism though! Some Catholics do still follow this tradition, given its origins in Celtic countries, and also it is a tradition under different names in Russia, Ukraine, and others.
Another tradition of a handfasting is to Jump the broom, which is also a common African practice that dispells bad and negative energy/spirits from the couple, saving their marriage and making it blessed. This broom or Besom, is then hung near the front door or above the Hearth (fireplace or stove) in the couples home. In place of jumping the broom, the couple can also jump over a balefire, to bless the couple with fertility and prosperity.
Another cool thing about handfastings is, that because they are not always legally binding, they make a wonderful alternative ceremony for ANYONE. Same sex couples, Polyamorous families, BDSM relationships, anyone can have a handfasting and no one can tell them any different.
- To learn more about Handfastings and its history, here are some resources:
- Wikipedia(not the best article)
- Handfasting History
- tips for a nice ceremony
- What is Handfasting?
Handfastings are not unique to Neo-Paganism though! Some Catholics do still follow this tradition, given its origins in Celtic countries, and also it is a tradition under different names in Russia, Ukraine, and others.
The couple may exchange vows or affirmations of their commitment, and their hands are typically bound together in a figure-eight or infinity symbol, representing the eternal bond they are forming. The length of the handfasting can vary, with some couples choosing to bind their hands for a year and a day, and others opting for lifelong commitments. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the binding is traditionally undone, symbolizing the freedom of choice and the understanding that the union is mutually consensual. While neo pagan handfasting ceremonies may not have legal recognition in many jurisdictions, they hold deep symbolic importance for the couple and their community. These ceremonies provide an opportunity for couples to create their own unique expressions of love and commitment, rooted in their spiritual beliefs and honoring the ancient traditions that inspire them. In summary, a neo pagan handfasting ceremony is a spiritual union and commitment ritual that draws inspiration from ancient pagan traditions. It symbolizes a couple's dedication to each other and their intention to be bound together in love and partnership. Handfasting ceremonies reflect the neo pagan emphasis on connection with nature and often include symbolic gestures, rituals, and vows. While not legally recognized in many places, handfasting holds deep symbolic importance for the couple and their community, allowing them to create a personalized expression of commitment rooted in their spiritual beliefs..
Reviews for "The Role of Elements and Elemental Magic in a Neo Pagan Handfasting Ceremony"
1. John - 2 stars
The Neo pagan handfasting ceremony was not what I expected at all. I found it to be a bit bizarre and over-the-top. The rituals seemed forced and lacked a genuine sense of spirituality. The whole experience felt more like a performance rather than a meaningful ceremony. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic and intimate wedding ceremony.
2. Sarah - 1 star
I attended a Neo pagan handfasting ceremony and was extremely disappointed. It felt like a chaotic mash-up of various philosophies and beliefs without any real coherence. The ceremony lacked structure and clarity, leaving me confused about what was actually taking place. Additionally, the excessive use of incense and chanting made me feel uncomfortable. Overall, it was a bizarre and disorganized experience that I would not recommend.
3. David - 2 stars
The Neo pagan handfasting ceremony was a complete letdown for me. It felt like a superficial attempt to appear spiritual rather than a genuine celebration of love. The rituals and symbolism used during the ceremony were confusing and left me disconnected from the whole experience. I was hoping for something more personal and meaningful, but unfortunately, this ceremony fell short of my expectations.
4. Emily - 1 star
I had high hopes for the Neo pagan handfasting ceremony, but it was a complete disappointment. The ceremony was filled with obscure rituals and strange chants that were hard to understand and follow. Furthermore, the lack of explanation and guidance made it difficult to fully grasp the significance of each action. Overall, it was a confusing and lackluster experience that left me feeling unsatisfied. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for a traditional and meaningful wedding ceremony.
5. Michael - 2 stars
The Neo pagan handfasting ceremony was not for me. It felt overly theatrical and contrived. The participants seemed more interested in putting on a show rather than focusing on the true meaning behind the ceremony. The constant reference to ancient rituals and deities felt forced and disconnected from the present moment. I was hoping for a more intimate and personal experience, but unfortunately, this ceremony did not live up to my expectations.