Buddhist wedding blessing ceremony
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Buddhism considers marriage a personal event and not a religious rite. Ceremonies are often organized around the desires of the couple and are held after a legal ceremony. Couples are required to use a local court or temple that conducts ceremonies of law for the marriage to be considered legal. A number of Buddhism sects including Zen, Korean Zen, Nichiren, Theravada, Pure Land and Mahayana Buddhism may require specific rituals within the wedding ceremony. Buddhism does not mandate that both the husband and wife are Buddhists to enter marriage.
Before the Ceremony
In traditional Buddhist marriage proposals, the man sends a relative to the prospective bride's home to offer whiskey and a silken scarf. The acceptance of the gifts translates into an acceptance of the marriage proposal. Some regions practice traditional customs today. Another traditional custom is a gathering of the couple's families for an exchange of gifts called the Nanchang. The modern Nanchang is often displayed as a rehearsal dinner or pre-wedding meal to thank family members and friends who contributed to the couple's upbringing or wedding planning.
Ceremony
Although the Buddhist ceremony is individualized for each couple, several rituals are commonly included. The ceremony is focused around an alter displaying Buddha. The couple may choose to decorate the surrounding area with flowers or decorations. Family and friends gather either by standing or sitting behind the couple. The ceremony begins by chanting the Pancasila, Tisarana and Vandana. The Pancasila consists of the five precepts to marriage that include respect for life, respect for others' property, faithfulness, truthfulness and the avoidance of alcohol. The Tisarana pays respect toward Buddha, Buddha's teachings and the Buddhist community. Vandana pays homage to Buddha. After chanting, the bride and groom light candles or incense and offer gifts to Buddha such as flowers. The bride and groom then recite vows and may exchange rings. If a monk is present at the ceremony, a blessing is given to the couple at this time. The guests recite the Mangala Sutta and Jayamangala Gatha at the closing of the ceremony, which offer blessings to the new couple.
After the Ceremony
A reception often follows the Buddhist wedding ceremony. Receptions include meals, music and dance. Common food found at traditional Buddhist receptions includes beef, pork, rice and roasted dishes. Indian Buddhist meals include naan, paneer or channa. Tsang is a common drink found at tables and is served to the groom in a ceremonial cup. Folk music with dance such as Sangini, Chufaat or Bhutia often fills reception halls.
Considerations
Ceremonies vary depending on the region the couple resides in. A Sri-Lankan Buddhist ceremony is conducted on an elegantly decorated platform called the Poruwa. The ceremony is not considered a legal marriage. The Shilpadhipathi conducts the wedding. The Balinese tradition includes a ceremony within the Vihara and is conducted by a Buddhist priest.
Source: www.ehow.com
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