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Traditions: Wedding Rings

Why do we wear wedding bands on the fourth finger?

This tradition reportedly dates back to 3rd century BC Greece where it was believed that a vein led directly from that finger in to the heart. This vein was named the vena amori, Latin for “vein of love”.

Another commonly held belief is that this tradition is from a Christian priest arriving at the fourth finger after touching the first three in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Eastern Europeans, Ortodox Christians, and Jews wear the wedding bands on their right hand; while western Christians and western Europeans wear the ring on the left.

Why does the bride wears two rings?

This tradition comes from Pope Innocent III who instituted a waiting period between engagement and marriage in the 13th century. Before this a ring was only worn to symbolize the engagement.

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