Why Russians Stand on a Special Cloth During Their Orthodox Wedding Ceremony
The Orthodox wedding ceremony in Russia is steeped in rich traditions and symbolism. One such tradition that often leaves curious onlookers bewildered is the custom of standing on a special cloth during the crown ceremony. Yet, it is not just any cloth; it is a piece of white cloth, often a traditional East Slavic towel, that serves a unique purpose in the spiritual and cultural essence of the wedding.
Symbolism Behind the Cloth
The white cloth used during the Orthodox wedding ceremony is not simply a practical prop. It holds deep meaning and significance. In Russian Orthodox tradition, this cloth represents a symbolic heavenly cloud, forming a sacred space for the couple's union. This gesture is not just a mere act of holding a cloth, but a profound manifestation of the mystical and divine nature of the ceremony itself.
During the ceremony, the couple stands on this cloth, signifying that their union is a spiritual event happening in heaven in the presence of God. It is a reflection of the belief that their marriage is sanctified by divine presence. For believers, this cloth becomes a precious symbol of their union, a tangible reminder of the sacred moment they shared with the heavens above.
Why Not Use a Newspaper?
While in a perfect world, every couple would use the traditional cloth, it is understood that not all circumstances allow for such luxury. Certainly, in rare cases, when a couple is really poor and desperate, they might opt to use a newspaper. However, it is important to note that using a newspaper is not the traditional practice and it can be seen as quite unusual, almost inappropriate in a ceremony that is steeped in deep cultural and religious symbolism.
It is also worth mentioning that during the Great Purge of the 1930s, when church ceremonies were banned in secret marriages, the use of newspapers or any makeshift cloth might have been a necessity. But in modern Russian Orthodox weddings, such usage would be considered highly unconventional and possibly disrespectful to the tradition.
What Happens During the Crown Ceremony?
The crown ceremony, or vechechnye kasy, is an essential part of the Orthodox wedding ritual. During this ceremony, the priest places wreaths made from laurel leaves or grape vines on the heads of the bride and groom. The wreaths symbolize the couple’s unity and the promise of a life of devotion, love, and partnership. The couple then kisses under these wreaths, reinforcing their commitment to each other and their marriage.
The cloth underneath is essential for this part of the ceremony, as it provides a pure and sacred space for the couple to stand upon. It is seen as a visual and symbolic reminder of the transcendent nature of their union.
Why is It Important for the Bride and Groom to Stand on the Cloth?
Standing on this cloth during the Orthodox wedding ceremony serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it symbolically elevates the couple to a higher spiritual plane, connecting them with the divine. It is a physical manifestation of the idea that their union is not just a human affair, but a sacred bond sanctioned by God. This is in line with the belief that the couple is being joined in heaven, in the presence of God.
Secondly, the cloth serves as a reminder of the couple's purpose in life. By standing on this cloth, they are symbolically taking an oath to uphold their marital vows, to support each other through life's challenges, and to live a life of faith. For believers, it is a pledge to dedicate their lives to the divine and to each other.
Lastly, the cloth is an heirloom that can be passed down through generations. It becomes a physical and tangible symbol of the family's rich tradition and heritage. It is a reminder to their descendants of the spiritual and cultural richness of their ancestry and the importance of preserving these traditions.
Conclusion
The tradition of standing on a special cloth during an Orthodox wedding ceremony is a beautiful and poignant expression of the spiritual and cultural heritage of Russia. It is a custom that transcends the mundane and elevates the union of a couple to a sacred moment. While using a newspaper might seem like a practical alternative, it fails to capture the depth of meaning and symbolism that this traditional cloth embodies.
By following this tradition, Russian couples honor their spiritual beliefs, celebrate their heritage, and reinforce their commitment to each other. It is a tradition that not only unites a couple in marriage but also connects them to the divine and to the rich tapestry of Russian history.