What is Saptapadi ritual?
Saptapadi (English: seven steps, saptapadī) is the most important rite (Sanskrit: rītī) of a Hindu marriage ceremony. The word, Saptapadi means “Seven steps”. After the seventh step, the couple legally become husband and wife. Saptapadi is sometimes mistaken with Saat Phere.
Is Saptapadi essential for Hindu marriage?
The Saptapadi ceremony establishes the commitment the couple makes to each other during the Hindu wedding ceremony. Saptapadi is therefore not necessary for all marriages. However, where saptapadi is observed as a ceremony, when last step taken around the fire the marriage will be considered complete.
What is the importance of saptapadi?
Saptapadi, or the taking of seven steps by the bride and the bridegroom before the sacred fire, is considered to be the rite of prime importance in solemnizing a marriage. “My beloved, our love becomes firm by your walking one step with me. You will offer my food and be helpful in every way.
What are the seven steps of saptapadi?
Each phera has a different vow, which is read out by the priest before the couple becomes husband and wife.
- FIRST PHERA – PRAYER FOR FOOD AND NOURISHMENTS.
- SECOND PHERA – STRENGTH.
- THIRD PHERA – PROSPERITY.
- FOURTH PHERA – FAMILY.
- FIFTH PHERA – PROGENY.
- SIXTH PHERA – HEALTH.
- SEVENTH PHERA –
Why saptapadi is important?
Although the ceremonial aspect is the least important characteristic of a sacramental marriage, the ‘Saptapadi’ or taking the ‘saath pheras’ is considered the most sacred of the nuptial ties, rendering the marriage ‘complete’ and ‘irrevocable’ in law.
What are the seven steps of Saptapadi?
What is Section 7A in Hindu marriage?
“Section 7-A (inserted by Tamil Nadu government in 1968) provides for a particular kind of marriage – “Suyamariyathai” (self-respect) marriages – among two Hindus. In the year 1968, it became an Act by introduction of section 7A amendment to Hindu Marriages Act.
What is the importance of Saptapadi?