
The phrase do you take him as your lawfully wedded husband is part of the traditional wedding vows that a bride recites to the groom during a wedding ceremony. The vows are a declaration of commitment and love, and they usually include promises to love, honour, comfort, and cherish each other in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, and in good times and bad. The specific wording of the vows can vary depending on cultural, religious, and personal preferences, but the fundamental meaning remains the same. The recitation of these vows is a solemn and significant moment in a wedding ceremony, as it signifies the couple's intention to enter into a legally binding union recognised by both the state and, for many, God.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tone | Formal |
| Structure | Question followed by a statement of intent |
| Content | Promise to love, honour, comfort, and cherish in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, and in good times and bad |
| Response | "I do" or "I will" |
| Variations | "Have and to hold", "from this day forward", "until death do us part", "to live together in the covenant of matrimony", "to be my spouse", "to be my friend" |
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What You'll Learn

To have and to hold
The phrase "to have and to hold" is a common element of traditional wedding vows. It is part of a larger declaration of commitment and consent, often spoken by the bride and groom as they take each other as husband and wife.
The full phrase is often stated as: "I, [name], take you, [name], to be my lawfully wedded [wife/husband], to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, [to love and to cherish], till death do us part."
The "to have and to hold" section is a promise of possession and care, indicating that the speaker will take responsibility for their spouse and commit to them wholly. It is a declaration of intent to remain together through all life's challenges and joys, a promise of enduring and unwavering support.
While the phrase is traditional, couples may modify their vows to reflect their unique relationship and beliefs. For instance, some couples may choose to omit or alter the "till death do us part" phrase, or include additional promises such as "to honour and obey".
In some cases, the couple may write their own vows entirely, creating a highly personalised expression of their commitment. This can add a special touch to the ceremony, allowing the couple to express their love and dedication in their own words. Ultimately, the "to have and to hold" phrase is a powerful element of wedding vows, symbolising the depth and endurance of the couple's love and commitment.
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In sickness and in health
"In sickness and in health" is a traditional phrase in wedding vows, and it is a promise that carries a lot of weight and significance. This phrase is a pledge to stand by your partner through all of life's challenges and joys, and it is a reminder that marriage is a commitment to support and care for each other, especially during difficult times.
When you say "in sickness," you are acknowledging that illness, injury, and health crises are inevitable in life. You are promising to be there for your partner when they are unwell, to provide comfort, care, and support during those challenging times. This could involve practical tasks such as taking them to doctor's appointments, administering medication, or simply being present and offering emotional support. It is a promise to be patient, understanding, and compassionate when your partner is physically or mentally unwell, and to stand by their side no matter what challenges arise.
"And in health" is the counterpart to this promise. It is a pledge to celebrate and cherish the good times, to make the most of your partner's health and vitality, and to create joyful memories together. It is also a reminder that maintaining your own health is important, as it enables you to better support your spouse. This part of the vow encourages couples to prioritize each other's well-being, to encourage healthy habits, and to create a supportive environment that fosters physical and mental health.
Saying "in sickness and in health" in your wedding vows is a profound commitment to be your partner's advocate, caregiver, and emotional support through all of life's ups and downs. It is a reminder that marriage is a journey that includes both easy and difficult times, and that you are dedicated to navigating those twists and turns together. This phrase encapsulates the idea that true love endures and thrives through all circumstances, and it is a powerful symbol of the depth and strength of your commitment to one another.
Ultimately, reciting these vows is a profound and meaningful way to express your unconditional love and dedication to your partner. It is a public declaration of your willingness to stand by their side, come what may, and to face life's challenges and joys as a united couple. This traditional phrase continues to hold significant relevance in modern times, serving as a reminder of the enduring nature of true love and the strength of the bond between two people committed to a lifetime together.
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For richer, for poorer
The traditional wedding vow, "For richer, for poorer," is a promise that the couple makes to each other to remain committed through financial ups and downs. It is a recognition that financial circumstances can change and a pledge to support each other regardless of material wealth.
This vow is a promise to build a life together, regardless of financial status. It signifies a commitment to sharing and partnership in all aspects of life, including the financial domain, which is often a significant source of stress and conflict in marriages. By saying "For richer, for poorer," the couple acknowledges that their union transcends monetary considerations and that they will face these challenges together.
The phrase also carries a deeper meaning about the nature of commitment and love. It speaks to the idea that true love endures through hardship and abundance. By pledging "For richer, for poorer," the couple expresses their intention to stay devoted to each other, regardless of whether they experience financial prosperity or adversity. They promise to support and care for one another through job losses, financial struggles, career changes, or any other monetary fluctuations that life may bring.
Additionally, this vow can be seen as a reminder that financial stability is not the foundation of their relationship. While financial security can contribute to a sense of comfort and ease, it is not the defining factor of their marriage. The couple recognizes that their bond is based on deeper values such as love, respect, trust, and commitment, which remain constant regardless of their economic situation.
In modern times, when many couples strive for financial independence and equality, this vow can also signify a mutual respect for each other's contributions. It acknowledges that both partners bring value to the relationship, whether through paid employment, unpaid caregiving, or other forms of support. By saying "For richer, for poorer," they affirm their appreciation for each other's efforts and their willingness to share in the responsibilities and blessings of their financial journey together.
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For better, for worse
"For better, for worse" is a traditional phrase used in wedding vows, promising to uphold the marriage through both the good and challenging times. It is a commitment to face life's joys and sorrows together, supporting one another and sharing life's burdens.
When a spouse pledges "for better," they are promising to cherish and celebrate life's positive moments with their partner. This includes shared happiness in times of prosperity, health, and joy. It is a promise to bring out the best in one another, to encourage and uplift each other, and to create and cherish beautiful memories.
However, the vow also acknowledges that life will inevitably bring challenges, and "for worse" signifies a willingness to endure and overcome these difficulties together. This includes standing strong in times of illness, financial hardship, or any other struggles that may arise. It is a promise to provide comfort, strength, and support when needed, to face adversity as a united front, and to persevere through life's trials while maintaining respect, love, and loyalty.
Saying "for better, for worse" is a profound commitment to embrace the entirety of married life, understanding that it will be a journey of both joy and sorrow. It is a testament to the strength of the bond between two people and their dedication to navigating life's twists and turns as a team, no matter what the future holds. This phrase is a powerful reminder that marriage is a lifelong partnership, and that true love endures through all circumstances.
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Forsaking all others
The phrase "forsaking all others" is a pivotal part of traditional Christian wedding vows. It is a sacred promise and a cornerstone of the marriage covenant. When a spouse vows to forsake all others, they are making a profound and enduring commitment to their partner, promising to put their spouse first and foremost above all other relationships.
This vow signifies an exclusive and lifelong union between two people. It entails a pledge to forgo all other romantic relationships and emotional entanglements outside of the marriage. It is a declaration of fidelity and a testament to the strength of the bond between the couple. By forsaking all others, the spouses-to-be are making a conscious choice to prioritise their partner's needs, desires, and well-being above anyone else's.
The words "forsaking all others" carry a profound significance. They represent a promise to nurture and protect the marriage, fostering an environment where trust, intimacy, and loyalty can thrive. This vow serves as a reminder that marriage is not just a legal contract but a spiritual and emotional covenant that transcends societal norms. It underscores the seriousness of the commitment and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of the union.
In modern times, this vow has evolved to reflect changing societal values and beliefs. While the core meaning remains unchanged, couples may interpret "forsaking all others" in ways that align with their personal beliefs and the nature of their relationship. For some, it may involve a mutual agreement to allow for emotional connections or diverse relationship dynamics. For others, it could mean a more traditional interpretation, focusing on complete emotional and physical exclusivity.
Ultimately, the vow to forsake all others is a deeply personal commitment that forms the foundation of a marriage. It is a promise that should be entered into with careful consideration, mutual understanding, and a shared vision for the future. By honouring this vow, spouses cultivate a deep sense of security, trust, and love within their marriage, fostering a lifelong bond that endures through life's challenges and triumphs.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some examples:
- I, [name], take you, [name], to be my lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.
- I, [name], take you, [name], to be my husband. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love you and honour you all the days of my life.
- [Name], do you take [name] to be your lawfully wedded husband? Do you promise to love and cherish him, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, and forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto him, for as long as you both shall live?
Couples may choose to add their own written vows to traditional vows or modify the traditional vows. For example, instead of saying "I do", the response could be "I will".
The legalities of a marital union vary depending on the location and type of ceremony. In most cases, a minister or officiant acts as an agent of the state and is responsible for signing the marriage license and ensuring that all marriage proceedings follow local laws and regulations.
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