May 21, 2012

A Historical Perspective on Wedding Vows

‘Tis not the many oaths that make the truth; But the plain single vow, that is vow’d true. – William Shakespeare

Wedding Vows have evolved over time to be, in modern times, the showing of love and commitment between a new husband and new wife. wedding-vows_clip_image002

Wedding Vows in the Past

In the distant past, the vow was a commitment between the couple and the community. Over time the vow became a commitment between the families of the bride and groom. At the time when a bride-price was paid to the new husband’s family by the bride’s family, there was a lot more emphasis on the “obey” than on the “cherish” part of the vow, from the perspective of the bride.

Wedding Vows Now

Well, these are modern times and the vow is still evolving. In fact, vow renewals are very popular for couples who remain married for a number of years. Not that they need the formality, but it is a sweet way to renew your commitment to each other. Vow renewals are offered most everywhere.