Tying The Knot: Unraveling The True Meaning Of This Wedding Tradition

Tying the knot is a common phrase used to refer to getting married or the performance of a wedding ceremony. The phrase is thought to originate from the ancient Celtic handfasting ceremony, dating back to 7000 B.C., where a couple's hands are physically bound together with a ribbon or cord, symbolizing their union. This ritual, often accompanied by a priest, signified the start of an engagement period, after which the couple would decide whether to proceed with the marriage. The phrase tying the knot has now become a figurative expression used to congratulate couples on their wedding and has inspired creative ways to incorporate the literal act of tying knots into modern wedding ceremonies and their themes.

The history and origin of 'tying the knot'

"Tying the knot" is a phrase commonly used to refer to getting married or the performance of a marriage ceremony. The phrase is thought to originate from the ancient ritual of handfasting, where a couple's hands are physically bound together with a ribbon or cord to symbolise their union. This tradition has been practised by various cultures, including the ancient Celts in Scotland, the ancient Mayans, and Hindu Vedic communities.

The handfasting ceremony dates back to at least 7000 B.C. in ancient Ireland, where it was used to solemnify a couple's engagement in the presence of a priest. The couple's hands would be bound together with a braided cord or ribbon, symbolising their commitment to one another and their intention to marry. After a year-long engagement, the couple would decide whether to proceed with the wedding or choose another partner.

In the 18th century, some historians believe that handfasting was used as a trial marriage, where couples would live together for 366 days before deciding whether to part ways or make their union official. During the Middle Ages, handfasting was seen as a symbol of betrothal rather than marriage. In Scotland, handfasting ceremonies were recognised as legally binding until the passing of the Marriage (Scotland) Act in 1939. However, in 2004, Scotland reinstated handfasting as a legally valid form of matrimony when performed by a licensed officiant.

Today, the handfasting ceremony is often incorporated into modern wedding rituals, especially among those with Scottish or Celtic roots. It has become a common aspect of wedding ceremonies across both secular and religious services, with couples including it as a meaningful symbol of their unity. The colour of the cord used in handfasting ceremonies can also hold significance, with blue representing tranquility, patience, devotion, and sincerity.

Over time, the phrase "tying the knot" has become a prevalent part of everyday dialogue when referring to marriage, with synonyms such as "getting hitched", "walking down the aisle", and "saying 'I do'". The popularity of this phrase and its variants reflects the diverse and romantic traditions that surround the celebration of marriage.

The meaning of 'tying the knot'

The phrase "tying the knot" is commonly used to refer to getting married or the performance of a marriage ceremony. The phrase is thought to originate from the ancient Celtic handfasting or hand-tying ceremony, which dates back to as early as 7000 B.C. in ancient Ireland. During this ritual, a couple's hands are literally tied together using a ribbon or cord, symbolizing their union and commitment to one another. The colour of the cord can also hold significance, with blue symbolizing tranquility, patience, devotion and sincerity.

In ancient Ireland, the handfasting ceremony was used to solemnify a couple's engagement, which typically lasted about a year. After this period, the couple would decide whether to proceed with the wedding or part ways. Similarly, some historians believe that in the 18th century, handfasting was used as a trial marriage, where couples lived together for a year and a day before deciding whether to make their marriage official.

The handfasting ceremony is also linked to Paganism and is often included in Wiccan or Pagan wedding services. It has become a more mainstream practice, incorporated into both secular and religious wedding ceremonies across various cultures. The ritual symbolizes the act of "tying the knot" and has become a prevalent term for getting married.

Today, couples may choose to include the handfasting ceremony as a unique way to display their devotion and unity during their wedding. It can be especially meaningful for those with Scottish or Celtic roots. Alternatively, couples can incorporate knots or the phrase "tying the knot" into their wedding decor or other details for a subtle nod to the tradition.

'Tying the knot' in modern weddings

The phrase "tying the knot" is commonly used to refer to getting married or the performance of a wedding ceremony. The expression is thought to originate from the ancient Celtic handfasting or hand-tying ceremony, dating back to 7000 B.C. in ancient Ireland and Scotland. During this ritual, a couple's hands are physically bound together with a ribbon or cord, symbolizing their union and commitment to one another. The colour of the cord can also hold significance, with blue symbolizing tranquility, patience, devotion, and sincerity.

In modern weddings, the handfasting ceremony is often incorporated as a way to honour this ancient tradition, especially for those with Scottish or Celtic heritage. Couples may choose to include the ritual as an extra component of their official ceremony or as a way to renew their vows. The material used for the handfasting can be personalized, such as using the family tartan or a special garment. The binding can be done in various ways, with one popular method being a knot tied for each vow, creating a unique keepsake for the couple.

For couples who want to add a subtle nod to the phrase "tying the knot" in their wedding, there are several creative ways to do so. One idea is to use knots as a decorative motif throughout the wedding décor, such as incorporating knotted rope into a nautical-themed tablescape or place settings. Another option is to include food items that resemble knots, such as serving soft pretzels at a cocktail hour or offering pretzel wedding favour bags with a playful "We Tied the Knot" message.

Additionally, couples can incorporate the phrase into their wedding signage or use it as inspiration for unique accessories. For instance, a chalkboard ceremony sign can feature a playful message like "Grab a drink and pick a spot before [Couple's Names] tie the knot!". The groom and groomsmen can also wear knotted boutonnieres, or the couple can exchange knotted bracelets as a symbol of their union. These ideas offer a fun and modern twist to the ancient tradition of "tying the knot," allowing couples to personalize their wedding celebrations while honouring the rich history and symbolism of the phrase.

The handfasting ceremony

In ancient Scotland, handfasting was used to bind couples together and symbolise an official union, even if they were unable to be married in a church. The ritual has now evolved to become a common aspect of wedding ceremonies, with couples exchanging vows as their hands are bound. The handfasting ceremony is most often included in Wiccan or Pagan ceremonies but has become more mainstream, featuring in both religious and secular services.

The officiant or a chosen family member will usually conduct the handfasting ceremony, explaining its history and significance before inviting the couple to join hands. The couple can choose to cross their hands, taking their partner's right hand in their right hand and their partner's left hand in their left hand, or stand next to each other, joining their right hands and their partner's left hands.

The meaning of knots in Celtic culture

Celtic knots are a type of intricate decorative design featuring interwoven lines and knots. They are believed to symbolise the origins of the universe, with their "infinite swirl" representing "neverendingness", interconnectedness and universal harmony.

Celtic knots are a subset of Celtic art and culture, with most remnants found in Ireland, Scotland and Wales. They date back to the time of the Celts, from around 1200 BC to around 500 AD.

Celtic knots are complete loops with no start or finish, and are often inspired by basket weave knots, believed to be among the first crafts carried out by humans. They are used for decoration and can be found everywhere, from ancient stonework to modern tattoos.

The earliest-known Celtic knots were similar to plaits or braids, likely inspired by the weaving of flexible materials to make baskets and clothes. They were used mainly for decoration, but also as a form of meaningful protection, believed to have magical and protective properties.

The endless nature of Celtic knots highlights the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth, and they are usually seen as a positive symbol. They can also symbolise love, happiness, faith and friendship.

There are several types of Celtic knot, including:

• The Trinity Knot (or Triquetra)
• The Dara Knot
• The Celtic Shield Knot
• The Celtic Love Knot (or Lover's Knot)
• The Sailor's Knot
• The Spiral Knot
• The Celtic Cross
• Solomon's Knot
• The Tree of Life

Frequently asked questions