The Shinto Wedding Ceremony

A Shinto wedding, or “Shinzen kekkon,” is a beautiful and spiritual way to celebrate the union of two people in Japan. It’s steeped in tradition and filled with meaningful rituals that make the day extra special.

Getting Ready for the Big Day

Preparation for a Shinto wedding starts well before the actual ceremony. Couples usually pick a shrine that’s important to them or just plain gorgeous. In the days leading up to the wedding, there are purification rituals to spiritually cleanse the couple. This symbolizes leaving behind any bad vibes and starting fresh.

The wedding attire is super traditional and stunning. The bride typically wears a white kimono called “shiromuku,” which symbolizes purity and new beginnings. She might also wear an ornate headdress. The groom wears a formal black kimono known as “montsuki haori hakama.”

The Ceremony

The ceremony itself is held in a serene shrine, adding to the sacred feel of the day. Here are some of the key parts:

1. San-San-Kudo: This ritual involves the couple taking three sips each from three different cups of sake. It symbolizes their union and the coming together of their families. The number three is important in Shinto as it represents heaven, earth, and humanity.
2. Norito and Tamagushi: The priest recites “norito,” a traditional prayer asking the spirits to bless the couple. Then, the couple offers “tamagushi” (a sacred branch) to the altar to show their respect and seek blessings.
3. Exchange of Rings: Although this isn’t originally a Shinto practice, many modern ceremonies include the exchange of rings as a symbol of the couple’s commitment to each other.

Wrapping It Up with Joy

After all the formalities, things often get a bit more relaxed and fun. Friends and family come together to celebrate with the couple. Sometimes, everyone sings a song at the end of the ceremony, adding a festive and personal touch to the day. This moment of communal singing celebrates the couple’s union and reinforces the sense of community and shared joy.

A Shinto wedding isn’t just about getting married; it’s about honoring tradition, family, and the spiritual journey of life. It blends old customs with modern touches, creating a memorable and deeply meaningful experience for everyone involved.