Pradakshina (Circumambulation)
The Bride and Groom walk (together) around the Vedi (three times), with the groom leading—the bride’s right hand is in that of the Groom1.
Note that the pradakshina creates a circle around the fire:
– The couple exchanges vows in the all-encompassing circle (of life).
– The couple pays homage to all directions. May God protect them in whatever direction they travel.
– They are having the reflection of the fire from all sides. May they be protected at all times.
– Seven is a mystical number; they walk around the fire a total of seven times.
– Traditionally, it is said that the wedding is seven circumambulations representing seven lifetimes of togetherness.
तुभ्यमग्रे पर्यवहन्त्सूर्यां वहतुना सह ।
पुन: पतिभ्यो जायां दा अग्ने प्रजया सह ॥2
Om tubhyam-agne parya-vahant
sooryaam vahatunaa saha.
Punah patibhyo jaayaa
Daa agne prajayaa saha.
Our human body is comprised of natural elements – May our physical health always be assured. Energy and effort lead to experience, improved intellect, and happiness – May our decisions always be so guided and well-intentioned. Just as the sunlight reflects on the moon, so may our love reflect in each other. May we always walk hand in hand and treat each other equally and with respect. And, may we be blessed with noble progeny.
ओं कन्यला पितृभ्यः पतिलोकं यतीयमप दीक्षामयष्ट।
कन्या उत त्वया वयं धारा उदन्या इवातिगाहेमहि द्विषः॥3
Om kanyalaa pitribhyah patilokam
Yatee-yamapa-deekshaam-ayaṣhṭa.
Kanyaa utatvayaa vayam dhaaraa
Udanyaa ivaati gaahe-mahi dviṣhah.
My bride is giving up her parents’ home to live with me, her husband. May we be blessed with happiness. May our happiness, like ever-flowing streams of water, overcome any obstacles in its path.
Saat bhaaware jis se paree,
wohee saath nibhaa ye gee,
Par naaree kee preet kaam
kitne din aayegee
A husband and wife circumambulate the sacred fire seven times during the marriage ceremony. They resolve to live together for the rest of their lives. Still there is infidelity in marriage today. Realize, O husband, another lady has not taken such a vow. It is therefore inconceivable that she will spend a long time with you – with the same dedication and love as the wife.
- This is the second set of circumambulation, this time four times with the groom leading. The matrimonial knot is made. Again, the original ceremony advocates that a person should uphold a jug of water and follow the couple around the Vedi
- Rig 10.85.38; Paar 1.2.4
- Chhandogya Braahmana 3.5, Gobhil 1.2.5
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