Rites and Beliefs

Every country and society has its own customs and traditions. Traditions distinguish a nation. Some of them date back to pagan times and a lot of people observe them; others are a part of everyday life. Many Ukrainian customs and traditions have a long history. Some are amusing and some are odd but they all are worth remembering. One important set of customs and traditions are those related to wedding.

Every country has its own wedding traditions, though those of European countries are fairly similar. Variance in wedding traditions stems from differences in social and cultural history and beliefs.

Marriage is one of the earliest known institutions and ceremonies of marriage are observed in every historically known society. Marriage is a legally and socially sanctioned union. It is regulated by laws, rules, customs, beliefs, and attitudes that prescribe the rights and duties of the partners and the status of the offspring. Wedding customs and traditions have undergone many changes during the centuries, often to suit the society's present needs.

The most universal ritual is one that symbolises a sacred union. This may be expressed by the joining of hands, an exchange of rings or chains, or the tying of garments.

In many respects, traditional Ukrainian marriage rituals confirm to universal practices, but at the same time, certain features of Ukrainian social and private life have always been an integral part of their marriage customs.