(no subject)
Interesting how some human traditions remain steadfast, even through time.
Consider a wedding band, for example. We take such trifles for granted, now. They are symbolic, sure, but sought after for their rarity and beauty, now. An ancient people believed the blood that ran through that finger directly to the heart. While other cultures believed that the finger had magical powers - or even healing powers. Some even call it the "nameless" finger out of fear of evoking some powerful spirit.
But there are so many other strange, but enduring traditions. Throwing rice, for example, to encourage fertility. The traditional kiss, even, is an ancient form of a handshake, stamp, or signature as it was the binding action of the marriage agreement.
Now, men pin a flower to their chest in the same color as their bride's finest dress. Noble ladies wear beautifully crafted silver dresses completed with a veil that shrouds their face. In another half millennium, these things may be replaced by new traditions, or taken for granted as much as the placement of the ring.
But it is the perfect time of year for a wedding... before horribly inclimate weather sets in.
Consider a wedding band, for example. We take such trifles for granted, now. They are symbolic, sure, but sought after for their rarity and beauty, now. An ancient people believed the blood that ran through that finger directly to the heart. While other cultures believed that the finger had magical powers - or even healing powers. Some even call it the "nameless" finger out of fear of evoking some powerful spirit.
But there are so many other strange, but enduring traditions. Throwing rice, for example, to encourage fertility. The traditional kiss, even, is an ancient form of a handshake, stamp, or signature as it was the binding action of the marriage agreement.
Now, men pin a flower to their chest in the same color as their bride's finest dress. Noble ladies wear beautifully crafted silver dresses completed with a veil that shrouds their face. In another half millennium, these things may be replaced by new traditions, or taken for granted as much as the placement of the ring.
But it is the perfect time of year for a wedding... before horribly inclimate weather sets in.