The history of the rite of putting on the rings is rooted in the depths of centuries and to this day remains unsolved until the end. There are many versions explaining why and on which hand they wear wedding rings family people from around the world. This is partly due to religion, the characteristics of the human body, or even prejudice.

Why a gold ring?

People have worn jewelry since ancient times. They were made from different metals, but gold was more valuable. A man who gave a girl (in some countries, her parents) gold engagement ring with the offer of a hand and a heart, he became a guarantor that his beloved would live in abundance.

An engagement party is a sign of an endless love affair. By exchanging this attribute, young people promise to love each other, remain faithful forever.

What does the shape stand for? In shape, they resemble chain links, which seem to bind the main characters of the newly-made family with close ties.

On the left hand

Flaunting attribute family life on the phalanx of the left finger is a tradition accepted by Catholics. They lean towards the theory that the rite came from ancient Egyptian times. In those early hours, doctors understood the structure of the body and allegedly discovered the presence of a vein running from the left hand to the region of the heart. Her called "love vein". Hence it was customary that the ring on the left palm denotes love.

Now the ring is worn by Armenians, Americans, Azerbaijanis, Turks, Slovaks, British and other Catholic countries.

Considering how Muslims wear a wedding band, we note that initially their culture did not provide for this rite. It was influenced by Western traditions. Women wear this decoration is for the left handle, and Islam forbids men at all to dress in gold.

On the right hand

In Orthodoxy, this attribute should be with right side... One of the theories explains this in such a way that the left side was accepted as sinful and unclean, and the right side was correct and just. After all, it is with the right hand that you need to sign different kinds the documents. Couples wear attributes of fidelity on the right hand in Russia, as well as in such countries of the world as: Austria, Ukraine, Greece, Peru, Colombia. For the Germans, newly minted spouses wear rings before the official ceremony on the left ring finger, and after that - on the right. In India, it is allowed to decorate any side. Jewish traditions provide for a ritual when the future spouse crowns the forefinger of the betrothed's right hand with gold jewelry, and only after official registration can married women change their placement, putting on the ring or middle finger on the phalanx.

Signs

Rings presented to a young couple by grandparents who have lived life in unbreakable marriage and harmony will bring happiness. Rings of deceased relatives better not to wear, and look for something new.

Orthodox people insist that one should not be allowed to try on a wedding ring before the wedding, but if the bridegroom's girlfriend touches it afterwards, she may also soon get married.

An interesting ancient custom is when the wedding jewelry of future newlyweds was immersed in one container with water and completely frozen. Since water is a carrier of information, the rings "remember" that they were inseparable in a block of ice. The owners of this pair of rings will experience mutual attraction all life.

Not always by which side the wedding ring is worn, can be judged by religion , marital status or nationality. Divorced couples often wear this attribute on the opposite hand, and widows do not wear them at all. It is customary for gypsies to wear a wedding band around their necks. It does not play a significant role how and where men and women wear it. It is important that this piece of jewelry was and remains a symbol of endless love and fidelity.

Many peoples have a variety of traditions associated with wedding rings. Let's find out the most curious ones.

Today, this jewelry is most often made of gold. But why is this material used to create beautiful wedding rings? Of course, because this metal has always been highly valued. It is clean, easy to use and easy to wear and care for. But in Ireland, for example, there is an old belief that a wedding ring that is not made of gold brings misfortune.

By the way, church instructions do not say anything about the material of the ring. It is curious that although the Bible does not say anything specific about the betrothal of Joseph and the Virgin Mary, a relic is kept in the Italian city of Perugia - the wedding ring of the Virgin Mary, decorated with an amethyst. According to legend, it appeared in the 10th century, when a Jerusalem jeweler brought it to Italy. Hence the custom of Catholic bishops to wear a ring with an amethyst as a symbol of betrothal to the church.

But the first engagement ring, decorated with a diamond, appeared in Europe only in the 15th century. Maria of Burgundy received it from her husband.

Muslim wedding ring

Interestingly, in Islam there are no religious norms governing the wearing of rings. It may be, but not a symbol of engagement. In the countries of the former USSR, Muslims wear wedding rings, but mostly silver (women can wear gold, but men are prohibited by religion).

Which hand is the wedding ring on?

Today, rings are used in all Christian wedding ceremonies, however, after there are differences in the question on which hand the wedding ring is worn. Interestingly, usually Catholics (with the exception of Spain and Germany) wear them most often on their left hand, and Orthodox Christians - on their right. The origin of such traditions is curious. In Orthodox culture, the right hand ("right hand") creates a right, that is, a good action. They cross with this hand, they also held a sword or plow in it. Therefore, it is customary to wear a wedding ring on the right hand.

Catholics believe that the left hand is closer to the heart. In addition, in this branch of Christianity, the sign of the cross is also performed with the left hand. Why are Spain (and after it Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico) and Germany an exception to this rule? Because in these countries in ancient times and the early Middle Ages, the influence of Rome was strong. In Latin, the left hand was called sinistra, this word also meant "bad" and even "ominous", it was associated with something negative. While the right hand was called dexter, which meant "agile, skillful, dexterous" (this, in general, is not surprising, because most people are right-handed). As a result, the positive was associated with the right hand, and the ring was worn on it.

Now you know why different countries wedding rings are worn on different hands and make them from various materials... It's all the fault of traditions that have been accumulating for centuries and rigidly regulating the rules of life today.

There are many rules associated with wearing rings. Remembering the symbolism, you can find out some information about the owner of the jewelry. For this reason, when buying a jewelry accessory, the question always arises as to which finger to put it on, and what difference it will make.

Which finger is the wedding ring on

In different countries, newlyweds wear the symbol of loyalty in their own way, which depends on local traditions. For Orthodox Christians, the right hand is of great importance, because they are baptized with it, therefore believers put a betrothal on it. In Catholic countries, a wedding ring is worn on the left hand, as it is closer to the heart. Basically, ring fingers are chosen for such. However, Jews wear engagement rings on their indexes, as this is the most prominent place, which corresponds to the designation of the position and purity of the bride.

In Russia

Russians, Armenians, Ukrainians and Belarusians profess Orthodoxy, therefore married men and women wear a wedding ring on the ring finger of their right hand. Rules:

1. According to the canons of the church, the right limb, with the help of which a person is baptized, takes food, shakes hands, is associated with honesty, and the left - with deception.
2. According to legend, a person has an angel behind his right shoulder, and a devil behind his left. The first always protects a person, therefore, he will also protect his union.
3. It is not recommended to take off wedding accessories in Orthodoxy, and losing is a bad omen.

Muslims

In Islam, it is strictly forbidden for men to wear gold jewelry. As for wedding rings, it is allowed to purchase, but silver. Although wearing them after the wedding is Christian tradition, and Islam prohibits imitation of other religions, some spouses believe that there is nothing reprehensible in this. The only thing that can't be done Muslim men- wear a wedding ring on the middle or index finger. This prohibition does not apply to women.

Widows

In many religions, marriage is believed to end after the death of a partner. However, some wives after the death of their husbands continue to wear an engagement ring as a sign of loyalty. Basically, widows do not think about which finger the ring is on, and leave it on their right hand. Some women, after the death of their spouse, wear two symbols of fidelity at once - their own and their husbands in different hands. According to tradition, widows are supposed to wear a wedding accessory on their left hand, but no one has the right to indicate it. Leave the engagement ring or remove it altogether after the death of her husband - the woman decides for herself.

Divorced

Most divorced people do not wear engagement rings at all, so that they do not remind of past sad experiences. If the sacred symbol is inlaid with precious stones, for example, with diamonds or pearls, then often wearing rings on the fingers turns into a preference simple decorations... In this case, a female or male ring is put on left hand if it happens in Orthodox countries. In Catholic America and some Western states, divorced people wear their wedding bands on their right hand.

Which finger is the engagement ring on

Recently, among young people, engagement is gaining great popularity. The tradition of making an offer and putting a ring on an unmarried girl's finger came to us from Western countries. Guys do not always know what size of jewelry his darling has, so the question of which finger to wear an engagement ring on is often left open. Most likely, the girl will put it on the finger that fits. By tradition, the engagement ring is the predecessor of the engagement ring, so it should be worn on the same finger.

"Bless and save"

Such a ring is a symbol of protection and faith among Christians. It is believed that such a decoration protects the wearer from illness and misfortune. The words “save and preserve” have a strong energy. This is a message to the Almighty, which not only strengthens the faith, but also admonishes the owner not to commit sins. Silver or gold ring Save and save is worn on any finger, but some guidelines exist. In Orthodoxy, they are baptized with three fingers, when the middle, index, thumb are folded together, so they are considered the best for wearing powerful protection.

On which finger do men wear the signet

The signet is the same ring, but inlaid with engraved monograms and precious stones. According to the rules, earlier the jewelry was worn on the little finger of the left hand. There are no restrictions today. Men no longer have the question of which finger to wear the ring on - they themselves choose what is more convenient. However, psychologists by this choice can easily determine the temperament of the carrier. In their opinion, a signet on a man's finger means:

• little finger or finger of Mercury - creative personalities;
• ring finger of the Sun - lovers;
• the middle finger of Saturn - narcissists;
• the thumb of Mars - men with increased sexuality;
• the index or finger of Jupiter - decisive and courageous.

Gays

In the 70s of the last century, a man wearing a ring on his little finger was a sign of belonging to the gay community. If the jewelry is on the left hand, then the guy is free or an asset, and if it is on the right, then he is busy. Nowadays, men wear jewelry, regardless of these outdated traditions. Many people know the meaning of the rings on the fingers and what they are called, therefore they wear them based on Chinese philosophy or to influence biologically hotspots to maintain the energy balance of the body.

Thumb ring

Active and emotional men like to wear accessories on the finger of Mars. Hot-tempered and aggressive, they subconsciously want to make their nature more harmonious. A man's thumb ring helps to establish relationships with others and himself, to find an intuitive approach. Psychologists say that decoration indicates a desire to assert itself, to take the first position in the sexual field. The meaning of the rings on the fingers of women is exactly the same.

On the little finger

The finger of Mercury is considered the protector of politicians, orators, doctors and diplomats, so the ring on the little finger of the right hand will bring good luck to those people who need such qualities as the ability to speak beautifully, dexterity of the hand and flexibility of mind. The owner of the little finger ring, especially with amethyst or turquoise, can get along with anyone. A woman's ringed little finger indicates that the lady is flirtatious, narcissistic, ready to flirt. A man with such an adornment has sneakiness, is ready for betrayal and adventurous adventures.

On the index finger

Ornaments on index fingers can often be found in portraits of emperors and rulers. This speaks of a proud character, independence and ability to manage people. The ring on the index finger in the form of a crown speaks of a strong-willed, strong personality. Wearing jewelry with a ruby, aquamarine or jade on the right hand speaks of a reasonable person striving for positive thinking... On the left - about the owner's tendency to tantrums, narcissism, arrogance.

On the middle finger

People with a strong personality, confident in their superiority, strive to decorate the finger of Saturn with a ring. Large hereditary ornaments are often worn on this finger to attract the protection of deceased relatives. The ring on the middle finger of the left hand helps a person not only to establish contact with relatives, but also to believe in their destiny, to cope with any difficulties. Losers are advised to wear jewelry on this finger to attract the disposition of fate.

On the ring finger

In addition to wedding or wedding (church) jewelry, both married and unmarried people wear a ring on the ring finger of the Sun. For example, Catholics wear engagement rings on the left hand, and on the right they wear Jewelry... Not family man tries to emphasize his love for art and luxury. As a rule, these are singers, artists, actors. The owner of such an accessory is a sensual, loving nature who is always ready to spend time pleasantly. Esotericists recommend wearing jewelry on the finger of the Sun for people who want to increase their wealth.

Video

When making a new acquaintance, a man or woman often stops their eyes on the fingers of the interlocutor: by the hand on which the wedding ring is worn, it is possible to determine whether they are married. However, it should be borne in mind that the traditions of wearing a particular wedding symbol may differ in different countries. Somewhere the custom of using a wedding ring as an attribute of fidelity has been completely abolished, while residents of other states attach special importance to it.

What is an engagement ring

Not every piece of jewelry occupies a special place in a person's life. The wedding ring symbolizes loyalty to the beloved spouse, with whom a long and happy future is planned. As a sign of consent to become a wife, the girl accepts the engagement ring he has chosen from her future husband with love. After the marriage is concluded, a betrothal will take its place on the hand.

Traditionally, it should be smooth: according to popular belief, this saves spouses from minor troubles in life. but modern newlyweds choose their wedding attribute, guided exclusively by their own taste. Any metals are currently in demand. Items made of silver, platinum and white gold are replacing gold jewelry.

History of wedding rings

Opinions differ as to the origin of the symbol of infinity and the fidelity of the spouses to each other. Some attribute the emergence of the tradition to the inhabitants Ancient Greece while others are inclined to assume that the custom was entrenched not without the participation of the ancient Egyptians. The inhabitants of Egypt own the statement that the thinnest nerve follows from the ring finger to the heart. This fact became the reason for wearing a wedding ring on the finger closest to the little finger. The very tradition of exchanging marriage symbols originated in ancient times, and originally, instead of metal, reeds were used.

Which hand do they wear wedding rings on?

People from different countries have their own customs. They are often the opposite of foreign ones. Why the wedding ring is worn on the right hand or, on the contrary, they prefer the left, you can find out only by understanding the culture of a particular country. Traditions Ancient Rus or modern Russia, for example, differ from those that are close to a resident of Turkey, Israel or an Armenian. Many of them, concerning the wearing of wedding rings, have a religious connotation: the customs of Orthodox Christians do not coincide with those adopted in Catholic countries.

Orthodox

In addition to opinions about only religious motives that Orthodox newlyweds wear a wedding band on their right hand, there are facts indicating that this custom belongs to the history of Russia. Since ancient times, it was believed that a symbol of loyalty to a spouse should be worn on the hand with which important documents are signed and deals are concluded. This indicates the seriousness of the intentions of the people getting married. During the wedding ceremony, the rings, on the contrary, are worn on the left hand. In addition, they should be different: for the wife - silver, and for the husband - gold.

Muslims

It is often difficult for a resident of an eastern country to understand the customs of the Russians. Thinking about the hand on which Muslims wear a wedding ring, it is not easy to come to a consensus. Towards Islam and culture Muslim countries the tradition of exchanging rings has nothing to do with it. However, imitating Western customs, these jewelry sometimes worn on the left or right hand. It is important to abide by the fundamental laws of Islam. Women are allowed to wear jewelry made of any metal, while men are not allowed to wear gold jewelry.

Catholics

It is customary in most countries to designate family status with visual attributes, but there are a number of differences in this matter. Catholics believe that the origin of the tradition of wearing wedding attributes the world owes to the ancient Egyptians, who found the so-called vein of love at the left hand. Catholic bishops, in spite of popular belief, wear a ring on their right ring finger. Ordinary inhabitants of countries professing Catholicism believe in the story of a vein passing to the heart and consider the left hand suitable for a wedding ring. This is done, like the Orthodox, in order to show loyalty to the spouse.

Jews

If you delve into the Jewish traditions associated with wedding decorations, then you can learn a lot of interesting things. This applies not only to which hand the Jews wear their wedding ring on, but also which finger is chosen. According to the laws, a man must consecrate his future wife with the help round decoration... During the marriage ceremony, the groom puts a ring on the bride's right index finger. Also, according to Jerusalem customs, you can give preference to the middle one. In everyday wear, the attributes of the married couple of both spouses are shifted to the left hands.

Where is the wedding ring worn?

Discrepancies can be seen depending on which way of wearing certain pieces of jewelry is adopted in the country. If you see someone with a wedding ring on their left hand or, conversely, on their right, this does not necessarily mean that the person belongs to a particular religion. The reason may be quite different. Divorce or death of a loved one forces people to take off the jewelry or put it on the other hand.

Married women

Having decided to marry, lovers rarely think about where married people wear a ring. However, this is an important symbol. When proposing to the girl, the groom presents her with an engagement ring, which she wears until the wedding. After marriage, it is combined with an engagement ring or put on another finger. When choosing a hand, it is better to refer to the customs of wearing this product in your country. Somewhere the right hand is traditionally chosen, and somewhere it is customary to wear the attribute of marriage on the left. The ring finger, middle finger or index finger can be suitable for the product.

Married men

Make young man It can be difficult to wear jewelry at times, and the wedding ring is some exception here, although men sometimes allow themselves to take off this product. This happens not because of the desire to hide the marital status, but, often, only because of the inconvenience. Towards the end of the eighteenth century, looking at male hand, it was possible to understand in what phase of the relationship the person is.

If a man was an ardent opponent of marriage, then the ring flaunted on his little finger. Those who wanted to find a good match should have put the jewelry on their index finger, and if they were not ready for a relationship, choose the middle one. The guy in love wore a ring on his ring finger, and in some countries its place after marriage was replaced by an engagement ring. The choice of hand is a matter of local tradition. Married Russians usually have a ring on their right hand.

Divorced

It happens that at some point the spouses decide to go each their own way and let each other go. Whether it is worth continuing to wear the wedding ring is a moot point. If you plan to start life from scratch, then you should not take luggage from the past with you. The symbol of loyalty has depreciated, and wearing it does not make sense. However, if you have fond memories of ex-wife and the ring is dear to you as a memory - wear it! As a rule, divorced people put a ring on the opposite hand.

Widows and widowers

The death of a loved one at any age is a huge personal tragedy that is very difficult to survive. The wedding ring plays a double role in this situation: it helps to survive the loss and, at the same time, evokes memories from which it becomes even more painful. Widowed spouses wear the product on the opposite hand: in Russia and Orthodox countries - on the left, in Catholic countries - on the right. In some cases, the ring of the deceased spouse is also worn, although there is an opinion that it is better to take it to church in order to allow the deceased to find peace.

How to wear a wedding ring

There is also an aesthetic view of jewelry. It can play a role in choosing which hand to wear the wedding ring on, but more often it is custom. There are several important points to consider when purchasing a product:

• The size of the engagement ring must be correct. An adornment that is large or small for you will not only cause significant discomfort, but also look ridiculous.
• It is possible to wear an engagement ring together with a wedding ring. They wear them on one hand, placing them under each other.
• If the wedding gold ring is of the classic type and does not have precious stones, then the product can be easily combined with other decorations. It is desirable that they be of the same metal.

Video

The ring is beauty. Many people love to be decorated. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) told us about the ring. Wearing a ring is sunnah. If a person, putting on the ring, seeks to follow the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), then in this case he will receive a reward from the Almighty.

The story of the ring of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)

When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wanted to write a letter to the rulers of the surrounding lands and states, they told him that they did not accept messages that were not sealed with a ring. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) took his ring and put his seal on the message.

The purity of the ring of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)

The act of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) taught us amazing lessons that each of us must understand. First, he acted in accordance with the protocol, procedures of the time, observing the rules. Does it make sense to convey the message of Allah, observing the generally accepted rules of relations between states? Still, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) decided to abide by these rules. Secondly, having made a ring for himself, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wished to make his emblem on it, a sign that indicates the importance of a person or company in our time. This is a very beautiful act. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) made a simple ring for himself, on which it was written: Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. It was all very simple. But, despite this simplicity, a deep meaning was laid in this ring, since it was a clear indication of the most important thing that he is the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), the bearer of the revelations of Allah.

Then he pointed to the high degree of respect for the Almighty, which we recognize by looking at this ring. Reading this inscription, we first say the name - Muhammad - the Messenger of Allah. When writing these words from top to bottom or bottom to top, the name of Allah was inscribed above everything else. We should all pay attention to this. When you want to make an emblem or sign that mentions Allah, think in the same way as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did. Follow the prophetic example when using the emblems, learn the lessons so that every act we do is associated with good intentions, contains high meaning, is simple and clear, and is associated with the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Due to seals and emblems

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “ Don't wear my ring and don't call yourself my kunya (nickname) ».

Seals and names are of great importance in the state. It is not allowed to forge other people's seals and emblems, this is one of the types of deception. The seal of the Caliph Uthman was forged by one of the Jews. They used a forged seal on some documents, which was the cause of the turmoil in those days. All this is prohibited and prohibited by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Rings made of gold and silver

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wore a silver ring and forbade men to wear gold. Men are not allowed to wear gold, be it a ring, watch or other jewelry. Silver is the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). He wore one ring, it was not reported that he wore two rings at once. The ring he wore was with an inserted agate or onyx stone, or entirely in silver with an inscription. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wore a ring on his right hand. Basically, he wore a ring on his little finger, so that the stone was on the inside of his palm. This was the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in most cases, but there are other versions of scientists about this.

When is it desirable to remove the ring

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) at the entrance to the toilet took off his ring, since the name of the Most High was inscribed on it. There are scientists who say that it is advisable for a Muslim to take off the ring when entering the toilet in any case.

The gaze is fixed on him and on you

Once the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was sitting with his companions and twirled the ring. Then he took it off and said: "The gaze is fixed on him and on you." When a person communicates with people, he should not be distracted by the ring, watch or phone, as this is one of the signs of disrespect for the interlocutor. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), feeling that the ring distracted him, took off as long as the companions were next to him.

The Companions guarded the ring with the seal of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), they magnified it, they used it in their deeds. After Abu Bakr and Umar, the ring passed to Uthman. Exalting the ring, the Companions constantly wore it with themselves. During the reign of Uthman, the ring was lost near the al-Quba mosque. Companions searched for him for a long time, but never found him. Later, some companions noted that the gates of turmoil opened after the day when the ring of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was lost. And this is another of the wisdoms of the Almighty that our community saw.

May the Almighty love you

Wearing the ring is a simple sunnah, but nonetheless it makes a lot of sense. There is nothing insignificant in the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). The Sunnah is of great importance because of the honor shown to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) by the Almighty. A believer who has realized this subtlety will understand the meaning of the saying of the Almighty:

« قُلْ إِنْ كُنْتُمْ تُحِبُّونَ اللَّهَ فَاتَّبِعُونِي يُحْبِبْكُمُ اللَهّ »

"Tell: " If you love Allah, then follow me and then Allah will love you. ". (Quran, 3: 31).

Lecture transcript Sheikh Muhammad al-Sakaf