Long before modern marriage laws, long before churches or civil registrars, there was handfasting.
A sacred rite with ancient Celtic, Norse, Pagan, and tribal roots, handfasting is the symbolic binding of two lives — witnessed by spirit, community, and earth itself.
At ORDAIN Global, we recognize the power and beauty of these timeless ceremonies. As an ordained minister or spiritual officiant, you are fully empowered to conduct handfasting rites — either as symbolic unions or legally binding weddings (where permitted).
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So, What Is Handfasting?
Handfasting involves a ceremonial binding of the hands, typically using ribbons, cords, or cloth, as the couple speaks vows and makes sacred promises.
The act of “tying the knot” quite literally comes from this ritual — it’s where the phrase originates.
This ceremony can be:
A spiritual or symbolic union
A legal marriage (when done in combination with official wording and registration)
A renewal of vows
A private, sacred commitment outside of formal religion or legal systems
Handfasting is inclusive, flexible, and deeply personal — making it ideal for interfaith, LGBTQ+, pagan, spiritual, or nature-based couples.
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Elements Often Included in a Handfasting:
Blessing of the space (using water, smoke, crystals, or intention)
Four Element Invocation (earth, air, fire, water)
Personal or traditional vows
Binding of the hands using cords, vines, ribbons, or sacred cloth
Community blessing or moment of silence
Pronouncement of union (legal or spiritual)
Some couples choose colors for their cords symbolizing traits they wish to bring into their union — like red for passion, green for growth, gold for prosperity, etc.
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Who Can Officiate?
You can.
If you are ordained through ORDAIN Global, you are authorized to perform handfastings as part of your ministerial service — whether it’s:
A private symbolic ceremony
Part of a legal wedding
A soul union or rite of passage
We provide:
Handfasting Certificate templates
Ministerial IDs and legal documentation (if needed)
Customizable ceremony scripts and ritual guidance
Supplies and add-ons through our online store
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Why This Ceremony Still Matters Today
In a world that’s become too fast, too transactional, and too shallow — handfasting brings us back to what matters:
Connection. Intention. Ritual. Spirit.
You don’t need a cathedral or courthouse to bless a union. You just need truth, presence, and a few sacred cords.
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→ Ready to offer handfasting?
View our Handfasting Certificate and Ceremonial Supplies
→ Want training or script templates?
Email us at: info@ordainglobal.com — or sign up for our upcoming Sacred Union Officiant Course
