Weddings: The Ring

Why Do We Use a Ring At a Wedding?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question!

According to halacha, a groom may betroth his bride with anything of value (1)  As you note, however, common custom is to use a ring.(2)

Here are some of the reasons why:

Some suggest that since a ring is worn at all times, it ensures that a woman will constantly be reminded that she is married. (3) Indeed, the circular shape of a ring also alludes to completion, which signifies that she is now whole and complete after having found her bashert -- her soulmate. The circular shape of a ring also symbolizes the hope for continued love and success as their relationship grows.

It is also noted that a ring is often used to combine two separate components together as one -- in this case, a husband and wife.(4)

It is also a symbol of fidelity. (5) The giving of a ring appears throughout Scripture as a means of transferring authority. For example, Pharaoh gave a ring to Yosef to indicate that he was now the authority over Egypt, and Achashverosh gave his ring to Haman and Esther (at different points of time) to indicate that they had authority over the Persian kingdom. So too, a husband gives his wife a ring to indicate that she now has authority over his household. Incidentally, the word ring (“taba’at”) has the same gematria as "kiddushin" (betrothal). (6) There are other reasons for using a ring, as well.

1. Kiddushin 2a.

2. Rema, EH 27:1.

3. Chinuch 552.

4. Likutei Maharich p.132.

5. Likutei Maharan 7:1.

6. Tashbetz Katan 467; Sefer Kushiot 251.