The ring on the ring finger of the right hand symbolizes the couple's marriage relationship. It shows others that people have sworn allegiance to each other and wish to stay together until the end of their days. But tragic moments happen in life, and a woman even after the death of her husband wants to keep a memory of him. On which finger the widow wears a ring , a natural question in this case.
Rules for wearing rings
It is customary for the Orthodox to exchange rings during the marriage and wear them on the ring finger of the right hand. The fact is that they are also baptized with the right hand, therefore it is on her that they put on the symbol of love and fidelity.
However, in Catholic countries, married ladies wear a wedding ornament on their left hand. She is associated with closeness to the heart and, accordingly, with love and devotion.
In the event of the death of a spouse, some ladies prefer not to remove jewelry and see this as an embodiment of blessed memory, loyalty and devotion. But such an option is not necessary at all, and if a woman decides to part with the symbol of marriage, she has every right to do so.
However, in the case when the spouse decides to leave the memorabilia, you should find out on which finger the widow's ring wears and whether there are other options.
- Own ring on the left hand on the ring finger.
- His ring remains in place, and the spouse's jewel is put on his left hand.
- Both rings are worn on the left hand.
- His - on his left hand, his wife - on a chain.
The options are different and the woman has the right to decide for herself what to do with the symbol of marriage. Many are simply put in a coffin with the deceased.
Wedding Ring Traditions
A marriage is considered officially completed at the time of the death of one of the spouses. If desired, a woman can re-marry. But if the lady remains faithful to her husband’s memory and does not want to enter into a new relationship and blur memories, she wonders on which finger the widow’s ring wears.
In this regard, some traditions have formed in society and a belief in signs has taken root. So, there are several beliefs that characterize the symbol of love and fidelity.
- It is believed that a precious metal, like a sponge, absorbs all the negative energy of its owner. Therefore, wearing the jewelry of a deceased spouse can harm his living widow. The best way out is considered by many to donate the ring to church ministers.
- Parents who celebrated the silver wedding anniversary pass their “happy” rings to their children as a talisman of a successful family life.
- It is worth avoiding cases when the wedding ring falls, otherwise a long separation or divorce awaits.
- Foreign rings, especially those that have passed the wedding ceremony, will bring happiness only to their owners.
Many deeply believe in traditions, therefore they strictly follow the instructions of the church and leave the spouse’s ring on his hand or donate to charity.
Choices
The ring on the left hand can mean the widowhood of a woman. But there is a tradition of wearing a wedding ring on the ring finger, because there is an ancient legend that there is a vein running in the heart.
Also, the size of the decoration affects the choice of a finger. Usually the male version is slightly larger, therefore, on which finger the widow's ring wears depends on its size.
Of course, the classic rings, which the spouses preferred to choose for the marriage ties earlier, can be squeezed. But modern options, where there is a relief, engraving, interspersed with precious stones cannot be transformed. Therefore, many people prefer to wear a widow’s wedding ring as a talisman, on a chain.
Two rings on one finger
It is important for women who adhere to strict rules regarding everything related to marriage to know about freedom of choice regarding the ring of a deceased husband. Neither society nor the church prescribes strict rules and does not oblige to wear a wedding decoration.
If the fate of the husband’s ring is chosen, then you can also not wear your own jewelry. However, some people prefer to wear both rings on the ring finger of their left hand.
It is worth remembering that if a woman meets on the street with two jewelry on her hand, this does not mean at all that she prematurely lost her husband. Some ladies thus express fidelity to the existing marriage and put on an engagement and wedding ring together.
Religion issues
The ring on the left ring finger of women does not contradict the Christian religion. Faith helps to cope with grief, so if the widow decides not to remove the jewelry, the church will support her.
Religion does not approve of the belief that the rings that are left at home impose a halo of eternal loneliness, so you can treat them at your own discretion.
However, religious canons encourage mercy. Therefore, donating jewelry to hospitals, orphanages, or to the needs of the church will be the best solution for believers.
Weighted Decision
It is psychologically difficult for a widow to immediately decide on wedding rings. The advice of relatives, the opinion of society, religious canons and norms fall upon her. Only last but not least is a woman listening to her own feelings. But conflicting opinions sometimes prevent a lady from making a decision.
In the case of the engagement ring, there are no accepted standards or the right decision acceptable to every person. For some, it is important to observe religious dogma, for others social morality is important, and the other lady does not imagine her life without signs of loyalty to her deceased spouse. Therefore, every widow has the right to choose, and no one can condemn her if she completely refuses to wear wedding rings.