Wedding Rituals and Meanings of Two Separate Cultures

In this paper we will look at two separate cultures wedding rituals and meanings. We will find that within various cultures, marriage is symbolically represented through a range of very simple to elaborate weddings. Marriage typically transforms both individuals’ roles in society and in the home. It is the combining of two families and often involves politics and takes into consideration good social standing. Cultural traditions are often passed on the families and children. Marriage can serve as a changing of roles in the financial realm as well as the occupational realm for a family. India and Chinese wedding are different in most facets and yet the same in a few (arrangement being one). We will take a closer look into the matrimony celebrations of both cultures and compare the meaning, symbolism, and process of each. Indian weddings are known to represent bright colors, traditions and symbolism. Because there are different spiritualties and cultures throughout India, weddings can differ based upon these aspects. â€Å"In the traditional Iyer or Iyengar (Tamil Brahmin) wedding, the kanyadan or as they call it kanyadaanam is one ritual totally unique to the weddings of people from this sect.†(Nada,2000) In this tradition the daughter sits on the fathers lap with a coconut in her hand and the fathers hands cradling the brides. Together they pass the coconut to the groom and the mother of the bride pours water over it. This symbolizes the bride becoming on with another family andShow MoreRelatedThe Sacred Ritual Of Marriage1366 Words   |  6 PagesRituals can be described as an outward expression of inward intention (Rituals, Rites and Festivals, n.d.). Rituals have a prominent role in today’s society as they enable people of all religions to communicate and form a stronger connection with their God or Gods (Rituals, Rites and Festivals, n.d.). 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