From pre-colonial maori festivals https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/beautiful-useless-obscure-words to Catholic, Chinese, and Islamic traditions, Philippine wedding traditions is a lovely fusion of native and foreign forces. However, despite having a variety of provenance, love and commitment are the central themes in all Filipino marriage ceremonies.
A conventional Filipino wedding, such as the pamanhikan, in which the groom’s family pays the bride a visit to formally request for her hand in marriage, was an extravaganza of folk filipino women dating rituals that took place longer before Spain colonized the Philippines. A babaylan may bless the couple on the first day while holding their joined hands over a plate of rice. The handful subsequently went back to their orchard and enjoyed a delicious meal there until the next moment.
The majority of individuals in the Philippines also practice pamanhikan practices now, but they do so with a more contemporary flair. To the babaylan’s home, the bride and groom may be led on distinct festivities while frequently carrying food or flowers as presents. The couple will therefore kiss and hug one another as the babaylan will pray over the wheat dish.
The newlyweds will typically receive a kalamay shower( a dish of slippery corn sweets) from their guests during the reception. The wheat is a representation of their vow to remain united throughout their marriage. Additionally, it serves as a way for them to express their gratitude to their friends and family for their assistance and attendance at the marriage.
The newlyweds will then typically dance during the “money dance,” also known as” the dollar dance.” The bride and groom’s friends and family gather in sherengas during this time to waltz with them while having bills pinned or taped to their attire. The sum of cash raised represents their gifts and best wishes for the honeymooners.
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