Most weddings today are two-ring ceremonies. By the name alone, one can easily see that calling it such an event references the fact that two-ring ceremonies were not always the norm. It is true that historically speaking if rings were given, they were usually only given from the groom to the bride. This exploration will help illuminate why rings were given and when the customs changed to include men in this custom.
Meaning of a Wedding Ring and Its Placement
Before understanding the story behind mens wedding bands, it is important to understand the meaning of a wedding ring in general. Not only does the ring and its shape have great significance in wedding bands and marriages, but even the finger the ring is on has meaning.
The wedding ring is a symbol of love and commitment. The ring is a circle that represents a continuous bond and promise made to each other that should last forever. Placing the ring on the finger during the exchange of vows during the ceremony provides a physical representation of the promises being made.
The ring is also worn on the ring finger of the left hand traditionally. This custom is due to the beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. First described by Macrobius in 395-423 CE, the wedding ring is to be placed over the Vena Amoris, or Vein of Love. This vein was believed to run directly to the heart. Placing the ring on that finger was equivalent to putting the ring on that person’s heart.
Why Men Did Not Often Wear Wedding Bands
Although men did wear wedding rings, it was not as common of a practice as a woman wearing a ring. This practice was often since men tended to work in more laborious and dangerous jobs. The rings were often a problem during the workday.
When working with machinery and other laborious activities, wearing a ring could be dangerous for the wearer. It could be lodged within equipment or even just collect more dirt and debris that could pose problems on the job.
With the rise of consumerism in the early 19th century, there were concerted efforts by jewelers to get men to wear wedding rings. There was even a marketing campaign for men’s engagement rings. However, these marketing efforts were mostly unsuccessful.
The Origin and Symbolism of the Men’s Ring
A worldwide event, however, did boost the popularity and began the more common tradition of men wearing wedding rings. In the 1940s, World War 2 began. With that war, there was a boom in marriages. Many young men, before they went off to war, got married. Whether to childhood sweethearts or recently met young women who stole their hearts before shipping off, men were getting married at unprecedented rates.
Due to the rise in marriages just before departing for war, many men were forced to leave behind their new brides. This heartbreaking event gave rise to more and more men opting to purchase that wedding ring for themselves. The men wished to wear the band to remind them of their wives waiting at home for their return.
These wedding bands also helped to show the world and their new brides their commitment to their marriage even though they were far away. These rings provided a bond for both the bride and groom to help them get through the difficult times ahead.
Still today, a wedding band for both men and women represents the love and commitment to each other. It is also a symbol that shows the rest of the world that they are married.