George Boyle
In Taiwan, wedding bands are worn on the middle finger of the left hand for grooms and the right hand for brides. This is different from many Western nations, where the wedding ring is worn on the third or fourth finger of the left hand. In Taiwan, the exchange of rings is a significant part of the wedding day tradition and is often accompanied by the exchange of vows and a bowing ceremony.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Which finger is the wedding band worn on? | Middle finger |
| Which hand does the bride wear the wedding band on? | Right hand |
| Which hand does the groom wear the wedding band on? | Left hand |
What You'll Learn
Rings are exchanged during the wedding ceremony
In Taiwan, the wedding ceremony includes several important steps, such as the exchange of vows and rings, the lighting of the unity candle, and the signing of marriage documents. The exchange of rings is a significant part of the wedding day tradition, with the bride and groom presenting each other with rings as a symbol of their commitment.
During the ring exchange, the bride and groom will put the ring on each other's middle finger, with the groom placing the ring on the left hand of the bride and the bride placing the ring on the groom's right hand. This tradition of wearing wedding rings on different hands is also observed in other parts of the world, including some European countries and China.
The rings are typically worn on the third or fourth finger of the left hand in many Western nations. However, in parts of Europe and some other countries, such as Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, and Hungary, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand. The custom of wearing the wedding ring on the left hand has also been adopted by some spouses in Turkey.
In Taiwan, the ring exchange is often accompanied by the giving of other gifts, such as jewellery or watches, as a further symbol of the couple's commitment to one another. These gifts are presented during the ceremony, along with the exchange of rings, adding to the significance of the occasion.
The wedding ceremony in Taiwan is filled with meaningful traditions and rituals that symbolise the union of two people and the joining of their families. The exchange of rings is a key part of this ceremony, representing the couple's love, commitment, and the beginning of their life together as husband and wife.
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Brides and grooms wear rings on opposite hands
In Taiwan, brides and grooms exchange wedding rings during the wedding ceremony, but they wear them on opposite hands. The bride wears her wedding ring on her right hand, while the groom wears his on his left hand. This tradition is also observed in China, where Western influence has led to the adoption of wedding rings as a symbol of marriage.
The exchange of rings is a significant part of the wedding traditions in Taiwan, symbolizing the couple's commitment to one another. The rings are typically exchanged after the couple has exchanged vows and bowed to each other three times in respect. The bowing ritual is an important part of Taiwanese wedding culture, signifying the couple's respect for each other and their families.
In addition to the exchange of rings, there are several other unique wedding traditions in Taiwan. One such tradition is the tea ceremony, where the bride and groom serve tea to their parents and in-laws as a symbol of gratitude, love, and appreciation. This ceremony is usually held in the morning, before the wedding ceremony, and is considered an important way to honour and respect the couple's families.
Another important tradition is the dowry presentation, which takes place the day before the wedding. During this ceremony, the groom presents various items, such as jewellery or furniture, to the bride's family as a way of showing respect and gratitude for raising their daughter. This tradition is a way for the groom to establish a good relationship with his new in-laws and to demonstrate his ability to provide for his future wife.
The traditional Taiwanese wedding attire is also quite unique. Brides typically wear a long, red dress with intricate embroidery, known as an "auspicious robe" or "good luck gown". The colour red is considered auspicious and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple. Grooms, on the other hand, wear a black jacket over white trousers, known as an "eight-treasure suit". This outfit is often made from luxurious fabrics and features colourful embroidery.
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The bride's mother-in-law will put gold jewellery on the bride
In Taiwan, there are many traditions and rituals to be followed for a wedding. One of these rituals involves the exchange of rings and the putting on of gold jewellery. The bride is seated on a high chair, facing outward, with her feet resting on a small, round stool. The groom and bride then exchange rings, placing them on each other's middle fingers.
Following this, the bride's mother-in-law will put gold jewellery on the bride. This is a symbolic gesture of greeting and accepting the bride into the family. It is also a way of showing that the bride is now the most precious person in the family, as gold is the most valuable item in Chinese culture. The gold jewellery is usually given to the bride by the elders of both families during the tea ceremony.
After the mother-in-law has placed the gold jewellery on the bride, the two women begin to address each other as "mother" and "daughter-in-law", solidifying their new relationship. This ritual is an important part of the wedding ceremony, marking the acceptance and welcoming of the bride into her new family.
Gold jewellery is a traditional and desirable wedding gift in Chinese culture. It symbolises nobility and wealth, representing the family's well-wishes for the couple to have an abundant life together.
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The bride and groom bow to each other three times
The wedding ceremony is a significant event in any culture, and in Taiwan, it is steeped in tradition and ritual. One of the most important moments in a Taiwanese wedding is when the bride and groom bow to each other three times. This act of mutual respect and humility takes place after the couple has exchanged vows and rings, symbolising their commitment to one another.
The bowing ceremony is a unique part of Taiwanese wedding culture and is often one of the most memorable moments for the couple and their families. It is a way to honour their ancestors and seek their blessings for a happy and prosperous married life. The number three is also significant, representing the couple's past, present, and future—acknowledging the journey they have shared and the path they will continue together.
During the bowing ceremony, the bride and groom demonstrate their respect for each other and their families. It is a moment of gratitude and appreciation, as well as a display of their love and commitment. The act of bowing is an ancient tradition that has been passed down through generations, connecting the couple to their ancestral roots.
The bride and groom's attire during this ceremony is also worth noting. The bride typically wears a long, red embroidered dress, known as an "auspicious robe" or "good luck gown," paired with a heavy headpiece called a "phoenix crown." The groom, on the other hand, dons a black jacket over white trousers, known as an "eight-treasure suit," and a hat resembling those worn by ancient Chinese scholars. Their traditional attire adds to the solemnity and beauty of the bowing ceremony.
The bowing ceremony is a key ritual in Taiwanese weddings, reflecting the couple's dedication to their cultural heritage and respect for time-honoured traditions. It is a moment that unites their families and seeks blessings for a harmonious and prosperous future together.
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The bride and groom make offerings to their ancestors
In Taiwan, the bride and groom make offerings to their ancestors as part of the wedding ceremony. This is a traditional custom that symbolises respect for their families and seeks blessings for their marriage.
The ritual involves lighting incense and making offerings to the gods and ancestors, conveying the message that the groom is about to welcome the bride into his family. The groom's family invites the bride's family into their home, and the couple, facing the family shrine, make their offerings. The officiant informs the gods and ancestors of the wedding, praying for blessings and protection for the couple and their families.
In some cases, the bride may also make offerings to her ancestors separately. This is done when the bride's uncle lights incense on her behalf, and the family presents offerings to her ancestors.
The act of making offerings to ancestors is an important part of Taiwanese and Chinese wedding traditions, honouring the families and seeking blessings for the future.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding bands are typically worn on the middle finger of either hand for brides and grooms in Taiwan. The bride wears the ring on her right hand, and the groom wears his on his left.
The middle finger is likely chosen as it is believed to have a vein that connects directly to the heart, known as the 'vein of love'.
Yes, during the exchange of vows, the bride and groom bow to each other three times as a sign of respect before being declared married.
Yes, Taiwanese weddings are steeped in tradition and symbolism. Brides typically wear red, which is considered an 'auspicious' colour, and a phoenix crown to symbolise wealth and prosperity. Grooms usually wear a black jacket and white trousers, known as an 'eight-treasure suit', and an 'academic cap' resembling those worn by ancient Chinese scholars.
