Why Are There 7 Circles (Pheras) in a Wedding?

In Hindu marriage culture, the seven circles, or "saat pheras," hold special significance. These seven circles are not just a ritual but a sacred bond that represents the commitment of the husband and wife to seven lifetimes together. During these seven pheras, the couple exchanges seven vows, promising to uphold them throughout their lives. Once someone takes the seven pheras with another, they vow to maintain that relationship for seven lifetimes. Marriage is one of the sixteen sacraments (samskaras) in Hinduism.

During the wedding ceremony, the priest recites various mantras, and the couple takes the seven pheras around the sacred fire, making it a witness to their vows. Each of these seven vows holds great importance in married life. While performing the pheras, the priest recites the vows in Sanskrit, and each vow has a special meaning. Let's explore the meaning and significance of each of the seven pheras in detail.

First Vow: In this vow, the bride says to the groom, "If you undertake any religious observance or visit any sacred place after marriage, you will take me along with you. If you agree to this, I am willing to join you in this union."

Second Vow: In the second vow, the bride says, "Just as you respect your parents and family members, you will also respect mine parents and family members. You will honor the dignity of my family. If you agree with this, I am ready to live my life with you."

Third Vow: In the third vow, the bride asks the groom to promise that he will stand by her in all three stages of life. If the groom agrees, she expresses her readiness to spend her life with him.

Fourth Vow: In the fourth vow, the bride reminds the groom that until now, he was free from family responsibilities, but now, as he enters the bond of marriage, he must take on these responsibilities. If the groom accepts this, the bride agrees to join him.

Fifth Vow: In the fifth vow, the bride says, "If you are making any significant decisions for the family, you will take my opinion as well. If you agree to this vow, I am ready to marry you."

Sixth Vow: In the sixth vow, the bride tells the groom that if she is spending time with her friends, he should not feel insulted and should also keep himself away from gambling. If the groom agrees, she is ready to join him.

Seventh Vow: In the final and seventh vow, the bride says, "You will see other women as mothers or sisters, and you will not allow any third person to come between the love of husband and wife."

FAQs :

1. What is the meaning of 7 pheras in a Hindu wedding ceremony?

The 7 pheras, or circles, in a Hindu wedding symbolize the seven vows exchanged by the bride and groom. Each phera represents a promise made to uphold values like mutual respect, trust, and commitment, binding the couple together for seven lifetimes.

2. Why are 7 pheras considered important in Hindu marriages?

The 7 pheras are considered crucial because they sanctify the marriage by invoking the blessings of the sacred fire (Agni). The ritual signifies the couple’s commitment to fulfilling their duties and responsibilities towards each other, their families, and society.

3. What do the 7 vows in the pheras signify?

Each vow in the pheras represents a unique aspect of married life, such as prosperity, fidelity, family responsibilities, mutual respect, and companionship. Together, they form the foundation of a strong and enduring marital relationship.

4. Can the number of pheras vary in Hindu weddings?

Traditionally, Hindu weddings involve 7 pheras. However, in some cultures or specific regional practices, the number might differ, but the core essence of the vows remains consistent.

5. What happens if all 7 pheras are not completed in a Hindu wedding?

Completing all 7 pheras is considered essential in a Hindu wedding, as each circle and vow is integral to the sanctity and completeness of the marriage ritual. Incomplete pheras may be seen as not fully honoring the traditional vows.