Giving Bride
Away
In times when women were granted few
privileges and even fewer personal rights,
the bride was literally given away to the
groom by the father, usually in exchange for
monetary gain. Today, it is seen as
symbolic of the blessings and support of her
union as a promise of continued trust and
affection. Often when the question is asked
by a clergy during the ceremony, “Who gives
this woman to be married to this man,” the
father’s response is, “Her mother and I.”
|
|
|
