Auspicious Wedding Dates: Superstition Or Something More?

Many people believe that choosing an auspicious date for a wedding is essential to ensure a happy and harmonious marriage. The concept of an auspicious wedding date varies across different cultures and religions, with some commonalities. For instance, the Chinese and Hindu cultures both consider specific dates to be lucky for weddings, often determined through numerology, astrology, or the zodiac.

In Chinese culture, couples avoid dates that conflict with their zodiac signs and favour dates with numerological significance, such as the number 8, which symbolises prosperity. In Hindu culture, couples may consult astrologers to determine their lucky dates according to their zodiac signs and birth dates.

Other cultures, like the Catholics, Scots, Irish, Ancient Romans, and Moroccans, also have their own beliefs regarding lucky and unlucky months for weddings.

While some people strongly believe in choosing an auspicious date for their wedding, others may not consider it a significant factor. Ultimately, the decision to believe in and follow auspicious wedding dates depends on personal faith and cultural traditions.

Cultural beliefs about wedding dates

Many cultures hold beliefs about wedding dates being lucky or unlucky. While some cultures have specific dates that are considered auspicious, others believe that certain times of the year, such as the spring or autumn, are more favourable for weddings.

Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture, couples typically consult a geomancer or a feng shui master to obtain an auspicious date for their wedding based on their 'ba-zi'. The belief is that the wedding date can determine the fate of the marriage. Some modern couples also use Chinese calendar apps to determine their wedding date. Numerological analysis is also used, with the numbers 8 and 9 being considered lucky.

Hindu Culture

In Hindu culture, couples often consult an astrologer or use a 'muhurat calendar' to choose an auspicious wedding date according to Vedic astrology. The astrologer considers the zodiac signs and birth dates of the couple and their living parents to determine a date that will bring good fortune, prosperity and happiness. Akshaya Tritiya is considered one of the most auspicious wedding dates in Hindu culture.

Catholic Culture

Although the Catholic Church does not have specific auspicious dates for weddings, there were historically restrictions on marriage during certain times of the year, such as Lent. April was traditionally favoured because of the prohibition during Lent and the promise of Easter celebrations. May was also considered lucky as it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Scottish Culture

Scottish culture considers May to be an unlucky month for weddings, especially the date of May 3rd. In contrast, January 1st is believed to be the luckiest day of the year for any new experience due to the introduction of the New Year.

Irish Culture

Unlike Scottish culture, the Irish believe that the final day of the year is particularly auspicious for weddings. However, the Feast of the Holy Innocents (December 28th) is considered unlucky for any occasion.

Ancient Roman Culture

The ancient Romans considered June to be an auspicious month for weddings due to its affiliation with the goddess Juno. A full or new moon during this month was considered especially lucky. On the other hand, May was considered an unfavourable and even illegal month for weddings due to the festival of Bona Dea, the goddess of charity.

Moroccan Culture

Moroccan culture does not have specific lucky dates for weddings but considers autumn to be the luckiest season. Thursdays and Sundays are considered the luckiest days of the week, while there is a ban on marriage during the seven days of hesoum (February 24th to March 4th).

Other Cultural Beliefs

Other cultural beliefs and superstitions related to wedding dates include:

• Old English culture considers Wednesday to be the best day of the week for a wedding, followed by Monday and Tuesday.
• Jewish culture considers Tuesdays to be lucky due to the creation story in the Torah, where God twice declares that "it was good."
• Greek folklore considers Tuesdays to be unlucky because Constantinople fell on a Tuesday.
• In some East Asian cultures, the number 8 is considered lucky as it sounds like the word for "prosperity."
• In Islam, there are no specific lucky dates, but Muharram and Ramadan are considered unlucky months for weddings.

Astrological considerations

Auspicious wedding dates are considered lucky and are believed to bring good fortune, prosperity and happiness to the newlyweds. Many cultures, including Hindu, Chinese, Catholic, Scottish, Irish, Old English, Ancient Roman and Moroccan culture, favour and avoid particular months and dates for weddings.

In Hindu Vedic astrology, a couple's zodiac signs are determined, and an astrologer calculates the groom's astrological position in relation to the moon and the bride's in relation to the sun. This information is then used to suggest lucky times and dates for the wedding.

In Chinese culture, auspicious wedding dates are often determined by numerological analysis of the date in the Chinese calendar. Some modern sources also apply numerological analysis to the date in the Gregorian calendar. Another way to determine an auspicious date is to consider the couple's Zodiac animal signs. The couple should avoid getting married in a year that conflicts with their Zodiac animal.

Some sources suggest that choosing an auspicious date can boost a couple's happiness, harmony, and prosperity by aligning their energies with positive cosmic influences, leading to a more successful and fulfilling marriage.

When choosing an auspicious date, it is also important to consider the birth dates of the couple, their parents, and unmarried siblings. It is also recommended to avoid dates that conflict with religious festivals or the couple's Zodiac signs.

While some people strongly believe in choosing an auspicious date for their wedding, others may not consider it a significant factor. Ultimately, the decision to choose an auspicious date depends on personal beliefs and cultural traditions.

Family expectations

• Family Traditions and Culture: Some families may have strong cultural or religious beliefs about auspicious wedding dates. For example, in Chinese culture, couples often consult a geomancer or Feng Shui master to determine lucky dates based on their "ba-zi" or zodiac signs. Hindu families may consult astrologers to align the wedding date with the couple's zodiac signs and Vedic astrology. In Catholic families, certain feast days and penitentiary periods might be considered when choosing a wedding date. Understanding the specific cultural or religious traditions your family adheres to can help you navigate their expectations.
• Parental Wishes: In some cases, couples choose auspicious wedding dates to fulfil their parents' wishes. This could be especially important if your family holds strong beliefs about the impact of wedding dates on the success of the marriage. Involving your parents in the process of selecting a wedding date can help ensure their expectations are met.
• Family Harmony: Choosing an auspicious wedding date is not just about individual beliefs but also about maintaining family harmony. In some cultures, it is considered important to consider the zodiac signs or birthdates of not only the couple but also their living parents and sometimes other close relatives. By aligning the wedding date with the favourable cosmic energies for the entire family, it is believed to bring harmony and prosperity to the family as a whole.
• Intergenerational Beliefs: Auspicious wedding dates are often rooted in long-standing traditions and beliefs passed down through generations. Your family may have specific stories, superstitions, or folklore related to lucky and unlucky dates. Understanding these intergenerational beliefs can provide context for your family's expectations.
• Flexibility and Compromise: When navigating family expectations, it is essential to find a balance between respecting your family's beliefs and staying true to your own values and preferences. If your desired wedding date differs from what your family considers auspicious, open communication and compromise can help manage their expectations.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Recognise that different cultures may have conflicting beliefs about auspicious dates. For example, while Tuesday is considered lucky in Jewish culture, Greek folklore considers it unlucky. If your family comes from a diverse cultural background, respecting and navigating these differing expectations can be important.

Ultimately, the decision to believe in and choose an auspicious wedding date should consider your family's expectations, cultural traditions, and your personal beliefs. Open dialogue and understanding can help you navigate any differing opinions and create a wedding plan that honours your family's wishes while also reflecting your own values.

Personal beliefs about luck

In many cultures, including Hindu, Chinese, Catholic, Scottish, Irish, Old English, Ancient Roman, and Moroccan culture, certain dates and months are considered lucky or unlucky for weddings. For example, the Chinese believe that a wedding date can determine the fate of a marriage, so couples often consult a geomancer or Feng Shui master to find an auspicious date based on their 'ba-zi', or Chinese zodiac signs. In Hindu culture, couples may consult an astrologer or use a 'muhurat calendar' to choose an auspicious date according to Vedic astrology.

Some people believe that choosing an auspicious wedding date can boost happiness, harmony, and prosperity in a marriage by aligning the couple's energies with positive cosmic influences. Others may simply see it as a tradition or a way to honour their cultural heritage.

On the other hand, some people may view auspicious wedding dates as a superstition or an outdated custom. They may believe that luck has nothing to do with the success of a marriage and that it is more important to focus on the relationship itself.

When deciding whether to incorporate luck into your wedding plans, consider your personal beliefs, cultural background, and the potential impact on your family and guests. If you are unsure, you can research the traditions associated with your culture or consult with a cultural or religious leader. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and there is no right or wrong answer.

Remember, while it can be fun to incorporate luck into your wedding plans, the most important thing is to focus on building a strong and loving relationship with your partner.

Practical considerations

When deciding whether to believe in wedding auspicious dates, it's important to weigh up a range of practical considerations. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Cultural and religious beliefs

Auspicious wedding dates are a common belief among many cultures, including Hindu, Chinese, Catholic, Scottish, Irish, Old English, Ancient Roman, and Moroccan cultures. Each culture has its own favoured and avoided months and dates for weddings, often based on religious traditions and beliefs. If you strongly identify with a particular culture or religion, you may want to consider choosing an auspicious date that aligns with its traditions.

Personal and family beliefs

On a more personal level, you may want to consider the beliefs of yourself, your partner, and your families. If you or your family members hold strong beliefs about auspicious dates, it could be important to take these into account when planning your wedding. This is especially true if your family is contributing financially to the wedding, as they may feel more entitled to have a say in the date.

Availability of venues and vendors

Another practical consideration is the availability of your desired venue and vendors. Since there are only a limited number of auspicious dates in a year, you may face more competition to secure your ideal venue and vendors on those dates. Therefore, it's important to start your planning early and be flexible with your date selection if needed.

Personal preferences and significance

Ultimately, the decision to choose an auspicious date or not depends on your personal preferences and what you consider to be significant. You may want to choose a date that is convenient for you and your partner or one that holds a special meaning, such as the anniversary of the day you met.

Impact on marriage

While some people strongly believe that the wedding date can impact the fate of the marriage, others argue that it is what you make of the marriage that matters. Remember that you have full control over your marriage, and a happy marriage requires a conscious effort every day, regardless of the wedding date.

Alternative options

If you are unable to secure an auspicious date for your wedding, there are alternative options you can consider. For example, you could choose to register your marriage on an auspicious date and hold the wedding ceremony on a different date, or you could include auspicious elements in your wedding, such as wearing certain colours or finding something old, new, borrowed, and blue.

Frequently asked questions