Saat Phere : The Seven Vows

Hindu weddings have long been considered as events deeply rooted in history and tradition. Across the country, Hindus believe their God is the holy fire, the Agni, who solidifies their marital happiness upon performing certain devout rituals. These rituals have their roots in ancient Hindu mythology.

As holy as the rite itself, are the promises that the couple make to each other. Hindu tradition believes that the couple in the presence of the Agni should voice seven promises to each other during the wedding ceremony. These seven promises are known as the “Saat Phere”.

The Saat Phere, also known as “Shaptapadi,” is a traditional ceremony performed among the chants of a pandit at the mandapam. During the ceremony, the bride and bridegroom hold hands and take seven rounds around the fire, reciting their vows. The first four vows are usually recited by the groom and the remainder three are recited by the bride. The family of both the parties gather around them and shower flowers and rose petals upon the couple.

In North India, seven vows are common, while in South India, the ritual consists of just three vows.

 

The Seven Vows : The Saat Phere

Vow One: The Promise of Survival.

With this vow, the couple pledge to help each other in sharing the responsibility of finding shelter, running the house and finding bread to fulfil their hunger.

 

Vow Two : The Promise of Strength.

The couple vows that they will act as pillars of strength to each other at times of peril. The strength of their bond is to surpass all pressures, mental and physical.

 

Vow Three : The Promise of Prosperity.

In the presence of the Holy Agni, the couple takes a vow to work hard to create a joyous and prosperous life for each other.

 

Vow Four : The Promise of maintaining Family Relations.

Following the promise of prosperity, the couple vows to keep intact the family bonds that tie them together.

 

Vow Five : The Promise of bearing Wonderful Children.

The couple vows to gift each other with children and nurture their lives as much love and happiness as possible.

 

Vow Six : The Promise of Good Health.

The next vow cements the sacrament of looking after each other’s health in times of sickness and otherwise. The bride and groom promises to be the source of physical strength for the partner.

 

Vow Seven : The Promise of Togetherness.
Lastly, the couple vows to each other to kindle the flame of friendship and keep it burning throughout their lives. They promise to be there for each other during all times, good and bad, and help in sculpting a prosperous future for the other and their families.

 

At the end of the Saat Phere, the couple bends down to touch the feet of their elders and ask for their blessings. This beautiful act cements their martial joy and paves way for a prosperous life together.

The Saat Phere is a ritual of utmost importance for Hindus. The Phere are considered to be the pillars upon which the couple build their lives. With the vows as base and God as witness, the couple begin their new life with much strength and happiness …

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