What are the 7 wedding vows?

The seven wedding vows, also known as the Saptapadi, are a traditional Hindu ritual performed during the wedding ceremony. These vows symbolize the promises made by the couple to each other as they embark on their journey of marriage. The vows typically include promises to support and care for each other, to respect and honor each other, to be faithful and loyal, to share joys and sorrows, to raise a family together, to be lifelong friends and companions, and to seek spiritual growth together. The Saptapadi is an important part of Hindu weddings and holds deep significance in the marital union.

1、 Traditional wedding vows

The traditional wedding vows, also known as the seven wedding vows, are a set of promises that a couple makes to each other during their wedding ceremony. These vows have been passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in various cultures and religions. While the specific wording may vary, the essence of these vows remains consistent.

1. Love and cherish: The first vow is to love and cherish each other, promising to nurture and care for one another throughout their lives. This vow signifies the foundation of a strong and loving relationship.

2. For better or worse: This vow emphasizes the commitment to stand by each other's side through all the ups and downs that life may bring. It signifies the couple's willingness to support and uplift each other during challenging times.

3. In sickness and in health: This vow highlights the promise to be there for each other in times of illness and to provide comfort and care. It signifies the couple's commitment to support each other's physical and emotional well-being.

4. For richer or poorer: This vow symbolizes the couple's commitment to share their lives and resources, regardless of financial circumstances. It signifies their willingness to work together to build a stable and secure future.

5. Forsaking all others: This vow represents the promise of fidelity and exclusivity. It signifies the couple's commitment to prioritize their relationship above all others and to remain faithful to each other.

6. To have and to hold: This vow signifies the promise to hold each other close, both physically and emotionally. It represents the couple's commitment to provide comfort, support, and companionship to one another.

7. Until death do us part: This final vow symbolizes the lifelong commitment the couple is making to each other. It signifies their intention to stay together and love each other unconditionally until the end of their lives.

In recent times, there has been a shift in the interpretation of these vows to be more inclusive and reflective of modern relationships. Couples are now customizing their vows to suit their personal beliefs and values, incorporating elements that are meaningful to them. This may include vows that emphasize equality, partnership, and mutual respect. The evolving perspective on marriage has allowed for a more personalized and authentic expression of love and commitment within the context of these traditional wedding vows.

2、 Personalized wedding vows

The concept of personalized wedding vows has gained popularity in recent years as couples seek to make their wedding ceremonies more meaningful and unique. While there is no set list of "7 wedding vows" that everyone follows, there are some common themes and elements that couples often include in their personalized vows.

1. Love and commitment: The foundation of any marriage, couples often express their love and commitment to each other in their vows. They may talk about their journey together and their promise to support and cherish one another.

2. Promises and vows: Couples often make specific promises to each other, such as being faithful, supportive, and understanding. These promises reflect their intentions for the future and their commitment to building a strong and lasting marriage.

3. Shared values and goals: Many couples include their shared values and goals in their vows. They may talk about their desire to build a life together based on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. They may also express their aspirations for their future together.

4. Personal anecdotes and memories: Personalized vows often include anecdotes and memories that are special to the couple. These stories can add a personal touch and make the vows more meaningful and heartfelt.

5. Promises to family and friends: Couples may also include promises to their families and friends in their vows. They may express their gratitude for the support they have received and their commitment to maintaining strong relationships with their loved ones.

6. Promises to overcome challenges: Marriage is not always easy, and couples may include promises to overcome challenges together in their vows. They may vow to communicate openly, seek compromise, and work through difficulties as a team.

7. Promises to keep the love alive: Finally, couples often include promises to keep the love alive in their vows. They may talk about their commitment to nurturing their relationship, keeping the romance alive, and continuously growing together.

It's important to note that personalized wedding vows can vary greatly depending on the couple's beliefs, cultural background, and personal preferences. The above points provide a general framework, but ultimately, the vows should reflect the unique love and commitment between the couple.

3、 Non-religious wedding vows

Non-religious wedding vows are a beautiful way for couples to express their love and commitment to each other without any specific religious references. While there is no set list of vows that must be followed, there are some common themes that often appear in non-religious wedding ceremonies. Here are seven wedding vows that are commonly used:

1. Love and Support: "I promise to love and support you, to be there for you in good times and bad, and to always be your biggest cheerleader."

2. Partnership: "I vow to be your partner in life, to work together to build a strong and lasting relationship, and to always make decisions with our shared goals in mind."

3. Communication: "I promise to listen to you with an open heart and mind, to communicate honestly and openly, and to always strive to understand and respect your perspective."

4. Growth and Change: "I vow to support your personal growth and development, to embrace change together, and to always encourage you to pursue your dreams and passions."

5. Trust and Loyalty: "I promise to be faithful and loyal to you, to trust and respect you, and to always be honest and transparent in our relationship."

6. Friendship: "I vow to be your best friend, to laugh with you, to share in your joys and sorrows, and to always be a source of comfort and support."

7. Commitment: "I promise to choose you every day, to prioritize our relationship above all else, and to work tirelessly to create a loving and fulfilling life together."

These vows reflect the values of love, partnership, communication, trust, friendship, and commitment that are important in any marriage. However, it is important to remember that each couple is unique, and their vows should be personalized to reflect their own relationship and values.

4、 Civil wedding vows

Civil wedding vows can vary depending on the couple's preferences and the jurisdiction in which the ceremony takes place. However, there are generally seven common wedding vows that are often included in civil ceremonies. These vows serve as promises and commitments made by the couple to each other.

1. Love and Cherish: This vow signifies the couple's promise to love and cherish each other, supporting and caring for one another throughout their lives.

2. Honor and Respect: This vow emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and honor in the relationship, acknowledging each other's individuality and treating each other with kindness and dignity.

3. Support and Encourage: This vow highlights the couple's commitment to supporting and encouraging each other's dreams, goals, and aspirations, fostering a partnership that allows both individuals to grow and thrive.

4. Loyalty and Fidelity: This vow signifies the couple's promise to remain faithful and loyal to each other, building a foundation of trust and commitment in their relationship.

5. Communication and Understanding: This vow emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication, as well as the willingness to listen and understand each other's perspectives, fostering a strong and healthy relationship.

6. Partnership and Equality: This vow signifies the couple's commitment to building a partnership based on equality, where decisions are made together and responsibilities are shared.

7. Forever and Always: This vow represents the couple's promise to be there for each other, through thick and thin, for the rest of their lives, embracing the concept of lifelong commitment.

It is important to note that these vows can be personalized and adapted to reflect the couple's beliefs, values, and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, in recent times, there has been a growing emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in wedding vows, with couples incorporating vows that celebrate and honor their unique identities and love stories.