Neo pagan handfasting is a ceremonial tradition that is derived from ancient pagan practices. It is a ritualistic form of marriage or commitment that is often performed by individuals who follow neo pagan or other nature-based spiritual paths. Handfasting ceremonies typically involve the binding of the couple's hands together using cords or ribbons, symbolizing their union and commitment to one another. The cords can be made of any material that holds significance for the couple, such as natural fibers or colors that have special meaning to them. The concept of handfasting can be traced back to ancient Celtic and Norse cultures, where it was a common practice to bind a couple's hands together as a symbol of their commitment. In these cultures, handfasting was often seen as a temporary arrangement, typically lasting for a year and a day, after which the couple could choose to renew their vows or part ways.
The “star” of a Handfasting (other than the couple) is the Handfasting cord itself. This may be made of actual cord symbolizing strength or ribbons for greater comfort. The cord or ribbon may have specially chosen magical colors worked into it like:
Here at TWS, we understand that not everyone opts for the traditional church wedding, and so we like to explore all the other opportunities that are available to brides and grooms. In the 1950s, when the witchcraft laws were repealed in England, various occultists and witches, including Gerald Gardner and Doreen Valiente, searched for a non-Christian term for their wedding ceremonies.
In these cultures, handfasting was often seen as a temporary arrangement, typically lasting for a year and a day, after which the couple could choose to renew their vows or part ways. In modern neo pagan handfasting ceremonies, the binding of the couple's hands is often accompanied by personalized vows or promises that reflect their unique relationship and spiritual beliefs. These ceremonies can be as simple or elaborate as the couple desires, with many incorporating rituals and symbolism that are meaningful to them.
What is a Handfasting: Pagan Wedding Traditions
Every religion has different ways of joining two people together in a commitment. Pagans are no exception. Pagan simply means “villager” in Latin (or civilian). In a modern context being Pagan means you are not involved in one of the Abramic belief systems.
Neo pagan handfasting ceremonies often take place outdoors, where the couple can be surrounded by nature and the elements. This aligns with the belief that nature is sacred and can serve as a witness to the couple's commitment. One of the key aspects of handfasting is the recognition and celebration of the couple's individuality and autonomy. It is a ceremony that emphasizes the equal partnership and mutual respect between the couple, as well as their connection to the natural world. Handfasting ceremonies can be conducted by individuals who have been authorized or ordained within their respective neo pagan or spiritual communities. Alternatively, some couples choose to have a friend or family member officiate the ceremony, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. Overall, neo pagan handfasting is a meaningful and symbolic ceremony that celebrates love, commitment, and the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world. It is a way for couples to honor their relationship and express their spiritual beliefs while embracing the traditions and rituals of ancient cultures..
Reviews for "Neo Pagan Handfasting: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Love and Relationships"
1. Mark - 2/5 stars - The book "Neo pagan handfasting" was not what I expected. I found the content to be confusing and lacking depth. The author did not provide enough explanation or context for the rituals and practices mentioned, leaving me feeling lost and disconnected from the subject matter. Additionally, the writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it hard to stay engaged with the material. Overall, I would not recommend this book for anyone looking for a comprehensive or insightful exploration of handfasting in Neo-paganism.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars - I was extremely disappointed with "Neo pagan handfasting." The book was poorly organized and the information was repetitive. It felt like the author was just regurgitating common knowledge about Neo-pagan handfasting without adding anything new or interesting. Moreover, the lack of clear and concise instructions for performing the rituals made it difficult to follow along. I would not recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about Neo-pagan handfasting, as there are much better resources available.
3. David - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Neo pagan handfasting," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The content seemed incomplete, with limited information on the historical and cultural aspects of handfasting. It felt like the author was more focused on personal anecdotes and opinions, rather than providing a well-rounded guide. Moreover, the book lacked proper citations and references, which made it difficult to verify the accuracy of the information presented. Overall, while the topic is fascinating, this book did not do it justice.
4. Jennifer - 3/5 stars - "Neo pagan handfasting" had some interesting insights and perspectives on handfasting in Neo-paganism, but I found it to be overly focused on one particular tradition. The author did not provide a comprehensive overview of the various practices and beliefs surrounding handfasting, which left me wanting more. While the personal stories shared were intriguing, they overshadowed the instructional aspects of the book. If you are looking for a more well-rounded examination of Neo-pagan handfasting, I would recommend exploring other resources alongside this book.
5. Robert - 2/5 stars - I was disappointed with "Neo pagan handfasting." The information provided was vague and lacked depth. The book focused more on personal experiences rather than providing practical guidance or historical context. I would have preferred a more balanced approach that catered to both those new to handfasting and those looking to deepen their knowledge. Overall, this book failed to meet my expectations and left me feeling unsatisfied.