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Aspects of the Jewish weddings: the symbolism of the ring
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As explained in the-betrothal-and-the-ring, the act of Kiddushin is accomplished by the man declaring his intent in front of witnesses while giving his bride an object worth a minimal amount. This can be accomplished with any item of value or even coins. Why, then.,is the custom to use a ring?
In Made in Heaven: A Jewish Wedding Guide, (Moznaim Publishing, 1983 pp. 49-50), Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan cites a number of reason based on traditional sources. A ring is preferred because it is something that can be worn by the bride as a constant reminder of her wedding. In Jewish practice, tying tefillin daily is also a constant reminder of our bond with G-d, which is likened to a marriage. When the tefillin are donned, the strap on the left arm is wound around the middle finger three times while the verses recited refer to G-d declaration of “v’erastich” [I will betroth you to Me, an affirmation of the mutual connection between G-d and His people.
Giving a ring is also a sign of conveying sovereignty. In Biblical accounts, a king gives his ring to someone to demonstrate his royal endorsement. When the king of Egypt appoints Joseph as his second in command, he confers his ring upon him (Genesis 41:42). Likewise, the king in Megillas Esther first bestows his ring on Haman when agreeing to allow him to set his plot in motion. Subsequently, Haman loses royal favor, and the ring is given to Esther instead (3:10, 8:2). The bride is given a ring to show that her husband grants her governance of his home and possessions, sharing what he has with her.
The circular shape of the ring symbolizes the circle of the life cycle. Marriage is a high note in everyone’s life; it is anticipated almost from birth. When a baby is named, it receives the blessing to grow to Torah, chuppah, and good deeds. Some sources,observe that the shape of the ring is the same as “a link from a chain.” Not only are the bride and groom linked to each other but to the succession of generations all the way back to the first couple. By creating the bond between husband and wife, they are also forging a link to the past, as well as to the future.
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