The tradition of wearing a white wedding dress is deeply ingrained in Western culture, symbolizing purity, innocence, and a new beginning. But what does the Bible say about white wedding dresses? While the Bible doesn't explicitly mention white wedding dresses, it does offer insights into the symbolism of color and the importance of marriage as a sacred covenant. Let's explore these insights and see what light they shed on the practice of wearing white on one's wedding day.
Biblical Symbolism of White
In the Bible, white is often associated with purity, righteousness, and holiness. Here are some examples:
- The High Priest's Garments: In the Old Testament, the high priest wore white linen garments as a symbol of purity and holiness when he entered the Holy of Holies (Exodus 28:4-5).
- The Wedding Garment: In the parable of the wedding feast, the guest who was not wearing a wedding garment was cast out (Matthew 22:11-13). This garment likely represented the righteousness and holiness required for entering God's kingdom.
- The White Stone: In the Book of Revelation, the faithful are promised a "white stone" with a new name written on it (Revelation 2:17). This signifies their acceptance by God and their new identity in Christ.
- The Heavenly City: The New Jerusalem, the city of God, is described as being "shining like a very precious stone, like jasper, clear as crystal" (Revelation 21:11). The imagery of whiteness underscores the city's perfection and glory.
While these examples showcase the biblical significance of white, it's important to note that the concept of wearing white as a symbol of purity and innocence for brides originated much later in history.
The History of the White Wedding Dress
The tradition of wearing white for weddings can be traced back to the late 15th century, when Anne of Brittany, the Duchess of Brittany, wore a white dress for her wedding to King Louis XII of France. However, it wasn't until the 19th century, during the reign of Queen Victoria, that white became the standard wedding dress color for brides in the Western world. Queen Victoria chose to wear a white satin dress for her wedding to Prince Albert, and this act set a fashion trend that continues to this day.
Biblical Perspective on Marriage
The Bible emphasizes the sacredness of marriage, portraying it as a covenant between a man and a woman ordained by God. Here are key biblical principles regarding marriage:
- A Covenant, Not a Contract: Marriage is portrayed as a sacred covenant, a lifelong commitment that transcends temporary emotions or fleeting circumstances. It's a promise made before God.
- One Flesh: The Bible teaches that marriage unites a man and a woman into "one flesh" (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5). This unity signifies a deep and enduring bond.
- A Reflection of Christ and the Church: The apostle Paul uses the marriage relationship as an analogy for the relationship between Christ and his church (Ephesians 5:22-33). This underscores the love, sacrifice, and commitment that should characterize a marriage.
What Does the Bible Say About "White" in the Context of Marriage?
While the Bible doesn't explicitly endorse or prohibit the wearing of white for weddings, it does speak to the symbolism of purity and holiness. The choice of a white wedding dress can be seen as a reflection of the bride's commitment to purity and new beginnings in her marriage. This symbolism aligns with the biblical ideals of purity, righteousness, and the hope for a transformed life in Christ.
However, it's essential to recognize that true purity transcends outward appearances and goes deeper into the heart. It's about a commitment to live a life of integrity and faithfulness, a life that reflects the character of God.
Ultimately, the Choice is Yours
The choice of a wedding dress is a personal one, and it's important to choose something that reflects your individual style and values. While the tradition of wearing white has its roots in the symbolism of purity, ultimately, the most important element of a wedding is the commitment to love and honor your spouse before God and others.
Whether you choose a white dress or a dress of another color, the significance of your wedding day lies in the vows you make and the commitment you enter into. As you celebrate your marriage, remember that the Bible encourages you to strive for a love that is pure, selfless, and faithful.
By understanding the biblical principles of purity, holiness, and the sacredness of marriage, you can make informed decisions that reflect your values and beliefs.
