TRADITIONS AND MEANINGS BEHIND PROPOSING MARRIAGE

Asking someone to marry you is much more than a simple question; it's a ritual steeped in symbolism that has transcended cultures and generations. Today, although customs evolve and rules are reinvented, the gesture remains a key moment in a couple's history. Whether he or she takes the initiative, what matters is the mutual commitment and the promise to build a future together.

Origin

In ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt viewed marriage as a financial arrangement, with the groom's family offering a dowry as a token of commitment. During the Middle Ages, the tradition took a more formal turn, and the suitor had to ask the bride's father for permission, promising to care for and support her. It was during the Renaissance that love became the focus of the proposal, accompanied by letters, poems, and the famous engagement ring. Today, the proposal is a reflection of each couple's personality, from intimate gestures to grand celebrations, keeping the tradition alive with a modern, personalized touch.

Meaning of the ring

The tradition of the engagement ring dates back to the 15th century, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria surprised Mary of Burgundy with a ring as a symbol of his love. While diamonds are the favorite today, what's truly valuable is what they represent: the commitment to a future together.
Traditionally adorned with a diamond or other precious stone, its circular shape symbolizes eternity, without beginning or end.

Meaning of where it is placed

Tradition dictates that the engagement ring is placed on the ring finger of the left hand, as, according to ancient Roman beliefs, the vena amoris, a symbolic conduit that connected directly to the heart, ran through that finger. Although we now know no such vein exists, the romantic idea has remained alive throughout the centuries. In many cultures, this ring remains on the left hand until the wedding day, when the wedding ring is placed there.

Why get on your knees?

Kneeling before proposing marriage has its roots in the Middle Ages, when knights bowed to royalty as a sign of respect, loyalty, and devotion. This symbolic gesture evolved to represent something even deeper in love: "I give myself to you, with an open heart and the promise to share my life by your side." Although it's no longer required today, it remains an iconic moment that melts hearts, because beyond tradition, it reflects the humility and sincerity of the person taking that big step.

The proposal

The tradition of proposing has roots in ancient times, when marriage was not only an act of love but also a social and economic agreement between families. In civilizations such as the Roman and medieval European civilizations, the groom formally requested the woman's "manus" (hand) from her father, who had authority over her. This gesture symbolized the transfer of responsibility and protection from the father to the future husband. Furthermore, it was common for the groom to offer a dowry or gift as a sign of his commitment and ability to provide. Over time, the tradition evolved, and although today love is at the center of the engagement, many couples preserve this moment as a symbol of respect and unity between families.