Introduction to Handfasting
Handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual that has been embraced by modern Wiccans as a profound way to symbolize commitment and union. Often referred to as a “Wiccan wedding,” a handfasting ceremony binds the couple’s hands together with cords or ribbons to represent their shared path.
History and Origins
The term handfasting originates from Old Norse and Gaelic traditions, where a couple’s hands were “fastened” to denote a legal and spiritual bond. In medieval Scotland and Ireland, a year-and-a-day trial period sometimes followed, after which the union could be confirmed or dissolved.
Modern Revival
With the resurgence of neopaganism in the 20th century, handfasting was revived as a celebratory ritual. Influential figures like Gerald Gardner and later Starhawk incorporated it into contemporary Wiccan practice, emphasizing its symbolic rather than legal force.
Fundamental Principles of Handfasting
Symbolism of the Bound Hands
When hands are bound, the couple demonstrates mutual trust, respect, and willingness to walk life’s journey side by side. The cord represents the unbreakable bond of marriage.
The Cord or Ribbon
The cord—often made of silk, cotton, or leather—can be plain or multicolored. Each color holds meaning: red for passion, white for purity, and green for growth.
The Circle of Witnesses
Wiccan handfastings typically occur within a sacred circle, with deities, nature spirits, and human witnesses called upon to bless the union.
Preparing for a Handfasting Ceremony
Setting Intentions
Intentions are at the heart of any ritual. Couples should meditate together, visualizing their hopes and goals. Writing these intentions on parchment can add solemnity.
Choosing Ritual Tools
- Altar: Adorned with symbols of the elements—earth, air, fire, and water.
- Candles: Representing divine light.
- Bell or Wand: To cast and close the circle.
- Cords/Ribbons: For the binding itself.
Selecting the Location
Natural settings—woodlands, gardens, or rocky outcrops—are favored, but indoor temples or homes can be consecrated just as effectively.
Handfasting Rituals in Wicca
The Binding of the Hands
After declaring vows, the officiant binds the couple’s hands. This can involve:
Types of Knots
- Single Knot: A simple overhand knot for unity.
- Tripled Knot: Knotted thrice for health, wealth, and happiness.
- Figure-Eight: To symbolize eternity.
Chants and Invocations
The binding is accompanied by spoken words, such as: “With this cord I bind my heart to yours, with love to share and balance ours.”
Spells for Commitment
Handfasting often incorporates supportive spells to strengthen devotion.
Lovelight Candle Spell
Light a pair of candles—one for each partner—and drip wax together onto a white cloth. Keep the cloth as a talisman.
Cord of Three Strands
By braiding three cords—each partner holds one, and a friend or family member holds the third—the braid symbolizes the strength of community support.
Materials Needed
- Three cords or ribbons (approx. 1 m each)
- Scissors
- Small pouch or box
Procedure
- Consecrate each cord with anointing oil.
- Partners braid the cords while envisioning their shared life.
- Place the finished braid in the pouch as a keepsake.
Personalizing Your Handfasting
Incorporating Elements
Couples may include:
- Water: Sprinkled from a sacred spring.
- Salt: For grounding.
- Herbs: Such as rosemary for remembrance or lavender for peace.
Family Traditions and Ancestral Blessings
Invite elder family members to share words of wisdom, or use an ancestral altar with photos and heirlooms to honor lineage.
Legal Considerations and Symbolic Nature
In most jurisdictions, a Wiccan handfasting is a symbolic ceremony and may require a separate legal wedding to be recognized by the state. Couples should research local marriage laws to ensure that their union is official.
Conclusion
Handfasting rituals offer a deeply personal and spiritually rich way to celebrate commitment and marriage. By combining ancient tradition, personalized symbolism, and the binding power of ritual magic, couples can create a ceremony that truly reflects their unique bond.
Bibliography
- Starhawk, The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess, HarperSanFrancisco, 1979. ISBN: 978-0062505785
- Scott Cunningham, Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, Llewellyn Publications, 2008. ISBN: 978-0738700791
- Doreen Valiente, Where Witchcraft Lives: Ritual Magic Rooted in the Craft, Weiser Books, 1995. ISBN: 978-0877284371
- Janet and Stewart Farrar, The Witches’ Way: Principles, Rituals and Beliefs of Modern Witchcraft, Phoenix Publishing, 1992. ISBN: 978-1872610217
- Raven Grimassi, Encyclopedia of Wicca & Witchcraft, Llewellyn Publications, 2003. ISBN: 978-1567184155
- Silver RavenWolf, To Ride a Silver Broomstick: New Generation Witchcraft, Llewellyn Publications, 1998. ISBN: 978-0875421659
