Arras in México

Arras in Mexico: History, Tradition and Customs

The arras are a significant tradition in Mexican weddings, symbolising prosperity and the commitment to share assets in marriage. This custom has deep roots in Mexican history and culture. Below, we explore the history, meaning and customs associated with arras at Mexican weddings.

History of the Wedding arras

The use of arras in marriage ceremonies dates back to ancient times, influenced by Roman and Visigothic traditions. In medieval times, the arras represented a dowry and a symbol of economic security for the bride. In Spain, this custom was consolidated during the Reconquest and was exported to the American colonies, including Mexico, where it has remained alive to this day.

Tradition and Meaning of the arras

In a Mexican wedding, the arras consist of thirteen coins that the groom gives to the bride during the religious ceremony. These coins have several meanings:

1. Prosperity and abundance: The thirteen coins represent the twelve months of the year plus an additional one for charity, symbolising the hope that the couple will have a prosperous and generous life.

2. Commitment and shared responsibility: The giving of the arras is a symbolic act in which the groom promises to provide and share his goods with the bride, and she accepts this mutual responsibility.

3. Blessing and good wishes: The arras are blessed by the priest during the ceremony, adding a spiritual element and good wishes for the couple's future.

Customs Associated with the arras

The arras ceremony is an emotional and significant moment in Mexican weddings. Here are some of the associated customs and practices:

1. Choosing the arras: The arras can be made of gold, silver or other metals, and are often kept in a decorative box or chest. Some couples choose to use arras that have been handed down from previous generations, adding sentimental value.

2. Blessing of the arras: During the religious ceremony, the priest blesses the arras before the groom gives them to the bride. This blessing is a crucial part of the ritual, invoking prosperity and divine protection.

3. Exchange of the arras: The exchange of the arras takes place after the wedding vows. The groom places the coins in the hands of the bride, who then places them in the hands of the groom, symbolising their commitment to each other.

4. Custody of the arras: After the ceremony, the arras are often kept as a precious memento of the wedding day. Some couples keep them in a special place in their home as a continuing symbol of their promise and commitment.

Modern Variations and Adaptations

Although the arras tradition has maintained its essence over time, some modern couples adapt the ceremony to their personal style and preferences. For example, some couples choose personalised arras with their names or wedding date engraved on them. Others may choose to include additional readings or blessings that reflect their culture or personal beliefs.

Conclusion

The arras are a beautiful and meaningful tradition in Mexican weddings, full of symbolism and history. They represent not only prosperity and financial commitment, but also love, generosity and divine blessing for the couple's new life. Through this tradition, Mexican couples continue to honour their cultural roots and ensure a future full of promise and blessings.