In Pagan handfasting ceremonies, different colors hold symbolic meanings and play a significant role in the overall symbolism of the ritual. Each color represents different aspects of the couple's journey and the energy they wish to bring into their union. **White** is a commonly used color in handfasting ceremonies, symbolizing purity, innocence, and new beginnings. It represents the clean slate and fresh start that comes with joining two individuals together in matrimony. **Red** is often used to symbolize passion, desire, and the fiery love between the couple. It embodies the intense emotions and deep connection they share and serves as a reminder of the strong bond they have formed.
You may decide to use ribbons which match the colors you have already planned for your wedding theme. Some couples have each member of the wedding party wrap a ribbon around the couple's clasped hands. (See also Involving People in Your Ceremony, below.)
While handfasting ceremonies are becoming ever more popular as more and more people choose to emphasise their personality, love story and individuality in their weddings, there really is no wrong way of designing your cord and conducting the ceremony. A cord or ribbon is loosely draped or tied around these as either the celebrant recites a few important words, or as the couple make some personal vows to each other.
It embodies the intense emotions and deep connection they share and serves as a reminder of the strong bond they have formed. **Green** represents fertility, growth, and harmony. It symbolizes the couple's desire for a healthy and prosperous relationship that continues to flourish and evolve over time.
Pagan handfasting symbolism of colors
Deluxe Handfasting Cord binding a Pagan couple during their wedding ceremony in a forest in Co. Meath. Using material and flowers from the brides wedding dress, diamante chains, charms and beads including colours of significance, this Deluxe Handfasting Cord was created by Vanessa at Aisle Do! Wedding Services, Ireland. Photo credit: © MIAN Photography, Ireland
Handfasting is a beautiful element incorporated into a wedding ceremony. A Handfasting Ceremony has its roots in ancient Celtic tradition and dates as far back as 7000 B.C. In ancient Ireland, when two people chose to be married, they were brought together, symbolically bound to have a braided cord or coloured ribbon tied around their hands by the celebrant in marriage. The term “Tying the Knot” comes from the tradition of Handfasting.
In many cases colours of these ribbons or cords in traditional Celtic Handfasting have a special meaning and by incorporating these colours that bind the couple's wrists into a Handfasting cord, they are invoking these very special meanings.
The Handfasting cords themselves can either be several colors twisted into one cord and then used for a single cord ceremony or each color can be draped individually as in the multi cord Handfasting. The couple may choose four to six colors or more if children are involved, that represent what they feel are the most important to them in their marriage.
Contact me to discuss what you would like in your cord, include pendents, material from your wedding dress or loved one, add a loved one charm or something else of significance that is important to the both of you.
- Red - will, love, strength, fertility, courage, health, vigor, passion
- Orange - encouragement, adaptability, stimulation, attraction, plenty, kindness.
- Yellow - attraction, charm, confidence, balance, harmony
- Green - fertility, luck, prosperity, nurturing, beauty, health, love
- Dark Blue -for a safe journey, longevity & strength
- Light Blue - tranquility, understanding, patience, health
- Purple - healing, health, strength, power, progress
- Black - strength, empowerment, wisdom/vision, success, pure love
- White - spiritual purity, truth, peace, serenity and devotion
- Gray - balance, neutrality, used in erasing, canceling, neutralizing, and return to the universe without repercussion
- Pink - love, unity, honor, truth, romance, happiness
- Brown - for healing , skills & talent, nurturing, home & hearth, the earth.
- Silver - for creativity, inspiration & vision, and protection.
- Gold - for unity, longevity, prosperity, strength.
It is a color associated with the natural world and the abundance it brings. **Yellow** symbolizes joy, happiness, and optimism. It represents the couple's shared desire for a life filled with laughter, positivity, and brightness. It serves as a reminder to embrace the happy moments and find joy in the journey together. **Blue** is often used to symbolize loyalty, trust, and stability. It represents the commitment the couple is making to one another and the unwavering support they promise to provide. Blue embodies the calmness and depth of emotions that are essential in a long-lasting relationship. **Purple** is a color that represents spirituality, intuition, and wisdom. It symbolizes the couple's desire to cultivate a deep spiritual connection within their union and to honor the spiritual aspect of their partnership. It signifies their commitment to grow and learn together. **Pink** symbolizes love, affection, and tenderness. It represents the gentle and nurturing qualities that the couple shares, emphasizing the importance of kindness and compassion in their relationship. Pink embodies the softness and affectionate touch that the couple brings into their bond. **Orange** represents enthusiasm, excitement, and creativity. It symbolizes the couple's desire to embark on new adventures together and to carry a sense of excitement and zest for life throughout their union. It encourages the couple to approach challenges with a positive attitude and embrace the creative opportunities that arise. In conclusion, the use of different colors in Pagan handfasting ceremonies holds significant symbolism. Each color represents various aspects of the couple's relationship, from purity, passion, and growth, to joy, loyalty, and spirituality. The use of colors in handfasting ceremonies enhances the depth and richness of the ritual, allowing the couple to infuse their union with specific energies and intentions..
Reviews for "The Vibrant Symbolism of Colors in Pagan Handfasting Traditions"
1. Sarah - 1 star - I was really disappointed with the book "Pagan Handfasting Symbolism of Colors". The content felt disorganized and lacking in depth. It provided very little information on the history and origins of handfasting traditions, which was what I was expecting. Moreover, the symbolism of colors was explained in a vague and confusing manner, leaving me with more questions than answers. Overall, I found this book to be a missed opportunity to provide a comprehensive understanding of pagan handfasting rituals.
2. Michael - 2 stars - As someone who was hoping for a thorough exploration of pagan handfasting symbolism, I found this book to be quite disappointing. The author seemed to have a shallow understanding of the subject matter, and the information provided was repetitive and uninteresting. The book lacked the necessary depth and analysis to truly provide insights into the symbolism of colors in handfasting rituals. Furthermore, the writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it difficult to engage with the content. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a comprehensive understanding of pagan handfasting symbolism.
3. Emily - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Pagan Handfasting Symbolism of Colors," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The book seemed poorly researched, with limited sources cited and little historical context provided. The author's explanations of the symbolism of colors felt arbitrary and lacked depth. I was left feeling unsatisfied and wanting more from this book. If you're looking for a comprehensive exploration of the topic, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
4. John - 1 star - I found "Pagan Handfasting Symbolism of Colors" to be a frustrating and confusing read. The author attempted to delve into the symbolism of colors in handfasting rituals, but the explanations were convoluted and lacking in coherency. I couldn't grasp a clear understanding of the topic, which left me feeling frustrated and annoyed. The writing style was also dry and uninspiring, failing to engage and captivate me as a reader. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone interested in pagan handfasting symbolism.