What is "handfasting"?

Answer by  tamkees (3203)

Handfasting is marriage by consent--no clergy required. The two clasp hands and make vows to each other. Until the Council of Trent, handfasting was standard in Europe. It remained legal in Scotland until 1939. Today, pagans sometimes use handfasting in lieu of a traditional wedding. Whether or not it's recognized as a legal union depends on where you live.

Answer by  Dreamlight (856)

Handfasting was a ritual in which a couple agreed to a marriage arangement by joining hands. This custom originated with the pagans that resided in Norway, and was recognized in Scotland until 1939. The ceremony involed the wedding patrons tying handfasting knots around the couples clasped hands. This ritual is still practiced by a small group of neopagans today.