Water is an essential element of life, and it has a special significance in many cultures and religions. In Buddhism, water represents purity, cleansing, and renewal. In Thai culture, water is also associated with fertility, prosperity, and happiness. Therefore, it is not surprising that water plays a central role in Thai wedding tradition, especially in the water blessing ceremony.
The water blessing ceremony is the most important and sacred part of the Thai wedding ceremony, as it symbolizes the union of the couple and the approval of their families and community. We will explore the meaning, purpose, and process of the water blessing ceremony, and how it reflects the core values of Thai culture and Buddhism.
#1. The Origin and Significance of the Water Blessing Ceremony
The origin of the water blessing ceremony can be traced back to ancient times when water was considered a source of life and a medium of communication between humans and spirits. According to Thai folklore, water spirits (นางน้ำ [naang naam]) are benevolent beings who live in rivers, lakes, ponds, and wells, and can grant wishes and blessings to those who respect and honor them. Therefore, water was often used as an offering to the water spirits, as well as to the ancestors and the guardian spirits of the land, to seek their protection and favor.
The water blessing ceremony also reflects the influence of Buddhism and Hinduism on Thai culture, as water is a symbol of purity, cleansing, and rebirth in both religions. In Buddhism, water is used to wash away the impurities of the body and mind, and to prepare oneself for meditation and enlightenment. In Hinduism, water is used to perform ablutions and rituals, and to honor the gods and goddesses, especially Vishnu, the preserver of life, who is often depicted resting on a serpent in the cosmic ocean.
The water blessing ceremony, therefore, is a way of combining ancient beliefs and religious teachings, to create a unique and meaningful tradition that celebrates the union, harmony, and blessing of the couple and their families.
#2. Meaning and Purpose of Water Blessing
The water blessing is the final and most solemn part of the wedding ceremony, as it completes the marriage. The couple sits on a cushion or a pedestal, holding their hands over a tray of flowers and herbs, such as jasmine, marigold, and rosemary. A conch shell filled with holy water pours over their hands, symbolizing purification, fertility, and harmony.
The water washes away any negative influences and brings good luck and prosperity to the couple. It also connects them with their ancestors, their families, and their community, representing the flow of life and love. The water blessing has multiple purposes:
- Seals the union of the couple and allows them to receive the best wishes and blessings from their elders and guests.
- Expresses respect and gratitude to the parents and elders, who have raised and guided the couple, and asks for their permission and approval for the marriage.
- Share the joy and happiness of the marriage with the guests, who have witnessed and supported the couple, and thank them for their presence and gifts.
- Honors the Buddhist teachings and the Thai culture, which have shaped the values and beliefs of the couple, and asks for their protection and guidance for their married life.
#3. Process of Water Blessing
The water blessing ceremony varies slightly by region, preference, and budget, but it usually consists of these steps:
The couple sits on a cushion or a pedestal, with the bride on the groom's left. They wear a ceremonial headdress (mong kol), made from one piece of cotton to symbolize their union, which the Buddhist monks blessed earlier in the wedding. The couple also holds their hands (palms together) over a tray of flowers, to catch the water that drips off.
The couple's parents and elders pour water over their hands first, using a conch shell (sang) filled with holy water from the Buddhist ceremony. They also offer their advice and words of wisdom to the couple and wish them happiness, health, and wealth. The couple bows and thanks them for their blessing and permission.
The guests follow, pouring water over the couple's hands, using the same conch shell or a small bowl. They also express their best wishes and compliments to the couple and congratulate them on their marriage. The couple smiles and thanks them for their presence and gifts.
The couple lights candles and incense sticks in front of a Buddha image of the bride's ancestors and bows three times to pay respect and homage. They also ask for forgiveness and blessings from their parents and elders, who give them gifts, such as gold jewelry, money, or household items.
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The water blessing ceremony is a Buddhist ritual that is an integral part of Thai wedding tradition. It reflects the core values of Thai culture and Buddhism, such as respect, gratitude, and harmony. By pouring water over the couple's hands, the parents, elders, and guests seal the union of the couple and bless them with good fortune and happiness. The water blessing ceremony is a way of celebrating the joy of marriage, as well as cultivating the virtues of purity, fertility, and love, which are the foundations of a harmonious and prosperous life.
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