What are the Common Jain Wedding Rituals in Svetambara and Digambara Communities?

The idea of  Jainism is deeply influenced by the principle of nonviolence. The two sects in Jainism— Svetambara and Digambara — follow the same principle. A similar line of thought is also followed in Jain wedding traditions.

If ever you attend a Jain wedding ceremony, you will find little uniqueness in Svetambara Jain wedding and Digambara Jain wedding traditions. But there are some common Jain wedding rituals that take place in both sects.

If you are exploring the wedding rituals of the Jain community and this is a must-read blog for you. We are going to talk about the similarities in their wedding traditions. But firstly, let's look at how Jain weddings are different from Indian wedding ceremonies.

You will notice that, unlike the rituals in Indian marriages, Jain wedding rituals are simplistic in nature and thought. Most Jain weddings happen during the day, and traditional Jain families avoid late-night celebrations. 

Now, let’s look at some common ceremonies that happen during the wedding and are common in both Svetambar and Digambara Jain marriage rituals. 

Common Rituals followed in Jain wedding ceremonies

Kanyavaran or Kanyadaan

This ceremony reflects the emotions of the bride's parents as they give their daughter's hand to the groom. In this ritual, the Jain bride arrives at the wedding mandap. On the right palm of the bride, her parents put Rs 1.25 and rice. Then, the groom takes the hands of his bride, and the father proclaims that his daughter is married to the groom. The priest chants mantras and pours holy water on the joined hands of the couple three times.

Granthi Bandhan

After Kanyavaran, the couple takes the first step to sanctify their marriage. The priest ties the shawl of the groom with the saree or dupatta of the bride. This ceremony is known as Granthi bandhan in the Jain marriage ceremony, which means the unity of two souls who are going to share their lives and responsibilities. The couple is now spiritually bound under social norms.

Phera

Unlike saath phere in a Hindu wedding, Jain shaadi traditions and rituals hold their ceremony differently. In their tradition, the couple takes three pheras (or sometimes four) while walking around the fire a Jain holy scripture or an idol. Each of these pheras represents Dharma, Artha, and Kama. The fourth phera is the Moksha. After the ritual, the couple is married, and the bride is known to be a Vamangi (better half). 

Vivaah Sanskar

After pheras, the priest then announces the Jain couple to be husband and wife. Vivaah Sanskar is the ultimate social and religious recognition of a married couple in a Jain wedding ritual. The newly married couple sits side by side and speaks the vows to remain loyal and supportive to one another. The couple also practices nonviolence till the end of their lives. 

In Digambara Jain weddings, the couple takes a vow in front of Lord Mahavira or any Tirthankara. These vows are spiritual and strengthen the commitment of the couple towards each other. 

Jaimala

Jaimala is common among Svetambara Jain weddings than Digambara Jain marriage rituals. However, in many urban Digambara families, this ritual has become common as a part of a social custom. However, it is not mandatory in the Jain marriage ceremony. 

Ashirwaad

Ashiwaad (blessing) is a common ritual in Svetambara Jain families and Digambara Jain weddings. In both weddings, the couple seeks blessings from the older members of the families with folded hands while bowing their heads. 

Conclusion

In short, there is a unique sense in the wedding rituals of Svetambara and Digambara Jains. If you have been looking for a Jain bride or a Jain groom who understands your values, traditions, and customs, connect with Wedding Tales Matrimony. Our experienced matchmaker understands the core values and helps you find a match to make your marital journey meaningful. 

Your profile will remain confidential because privacy is our integral value. We look into various aspects like education, family values, lifestyle, culture, and more to make sure your loved one is getting married to their right choices. With our curated matchmaking support, we ensure that your matchmaking journey is smoother and enjoyable.