In the vibrant canvas of a Hindu wedding, each ritual and rite paints a story of love, commitment, and unity. The echo of a lively dhol, the shimmering shades of the attires, the fragrance of marigold flowers, and the rich colours that adorn Hindu wedding invitations set the tone for what lies ahead. Here, amongst a compelling medley of rituals, one tradition holds a profound meaning—the “Seven Vows” or “Saptapadi”. These vows, profound in their simplicity yet mighty in their intent, form an unshakeable scaffold of a Hindu marriage. Let’s delve into the compassionate human touch behind these promises.
The Divine Dance of Saptapadi
Saptapadi, the ceremonial seven steps taken around the sacred fire, serves as the couple’s initial journey into wedded bliss. As they step forward hand-in-hand, each small step carries the weight of shared dreams, fears, joys, and hopes for their shared lifetime. The sacred flame serves as a silent yet powerful witness, casting a soft glow upon this sacred commitment of a lifetime.
A Walk Along the Seven Vows
Together, they make seven promises, seven different commitments articulating the shared vision of their union—the roads they will travel, the life they intend to build and the love they vow to nurture.
● First Vow: Our Journey Towards Nourishment and Prosperity
The first vow is like a farmer’s pledge to the field before sowing the seeds—a promise to nurture and care. The groom steps forward, promising to do his utmost in taking care of the family, ensuring a life rich in nourishment and prosperity. Simultaneously, the bride, like the fertile earth, promises to create a comforting home nurtured with love, compassion, and acceptance—a sanctuary where their love blooms.
● Second Vow: Our Union of Strength
The second vow is like two trekkers promising to face the sunshine and storms side by side during their expedition. The bride and groom pledge to stand together through the rollercoaster of life—through the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows, believing in the strength of their unity.
● Third Vow: Our Commitment to Righteousness and Prosperity
The third vow comes like a bond of shared values. Just as the anchor holds a ship steady amidst the high tides, honesty and integrity anchor their life together, keeping their actions just and righteous. In a home where truth echoes in every word, prosperity isn’t measured in gold but in the treasure of trust and respect, they earn.
● Fourth Vow: Our Vessel of Love, Trust, and Respect
The fourth vow is an artist’s promise to create a masterpiece—with the colours of love, trust, and respect. It’s an understated assurance about acceptance, about knowing each other’s imperfections, and still choosing to respect, trust, and love.
● Fifth Vow: Our Hope for Blessed Parenthood
The fifth vow mimics a gardener’s call—the desire to see seeds germinate, to see the flowers bloom. As they picture the rhythmic chatter-patter of little feet echoing in their home’s corridors, the bride and groom promise to shoulder the responsibilities of raising virtuous children who reflect their love and legacy.
● Sixth Vow: Our Pledge for Health and Longevity
As they step into the sixth vow, the bride and groom commit to looking after one another, cherishing their well-being. Together, they promise to honour their sacred union above all, nourishing their relationship and health to foster happiness and a lasting life side by side.
● Seventh Vow: Our Promise of Eternal Love
The seventh vow unfolds as a heartfelt poem depicting endless love. Hand in hand, the bride and groom pledge an everlasting connection—a spiritual journey of companionship where love and each other will always be their choice.
The Harmonic Echo of the Vows
The heartfelt vows mixed with the priest’s gentle singing create a passionate melody that touches every corner of the sacred setting and reaches deep into their hearts. Expressed in the ancient language of Sanskrit, words mixed with whispers and joyful laughter, these vows capture the true spirit of their lifelong devotion.
Wrapping up
The seven vows in a Hindu marriage are not just formal promises. They are deep personal commitments, which occupy a special place in the hearts of couples. Not just the big ceremony around the sacred fire, but all those little everyday moments that follow that really make a wedding meaningful. Essentially, these vows become a map of the couple’s shared journey through life, a journey filled with love, trust, mutual respect, and lots of shared laughter that makes marriage feel that it is authentic, human and incredibly unique.
