why do we "tie the knot" when we get married?

Answer 1

There is a suggestion that this expression derives from the nets of knotted string which supported beds prior to the introduction of metal-sprung bedframes. The theory goes that, in order to make a marriage bed, you needed to 'tie the knot'. Like many such folk-etymological explanations, there's not a shred of evidence to support this idea.

It isn't clear whether this expression derives from an actual knot used in marriage ceremonies or whether the knot is merely symbolic of a lasting unity. Knots have a place in the folklore of many cultures and usually symbolize unbreakable pledges. Actual knots have certainly been used in marriage ceremonies for some time and the tradition of trying the wrists of the bride and groom with twine continues today in marriages in the use of sashes which are placed over the principal's wrists.

Answer 2

A Pagan ceremony called "hand fasting" is the most likely origin of this term.

During handfasting, the couples hands are tied together with a cord, as a symbol of how their lives are now tied together as one. Many modern couples use this in their wedding ceremonies.
Handfasting is not necessarily a wedding rite, though...
Pagan handfasting is done when a couple promises to live together for a year and one day, to determine if they would make a good permanant relationship. It's like a trial marriage.

There are as many theories for the term "tying the knot" as there are people who will answer your question.

Answer 3

Origin

There is a suggestion that this expression derives from the nets of knotted string which supported beds prior to the introduction of metal-sprung bedframes. The theory goes that, in order to make a marriage bed, you needed to 'tie the knot'. Like many such folk-etymological explanations, there's not a shred of evidence to support this idea.

It isn't clear whether this expression derives from an actual knot used in marriage ceremonies or whether the knot is merely symbolic of a lasting unity. Knots have a place in the folklore of many cultures and usually symbolize unbreakable pledges. Actual knots have certainly been used in marriage ceremonies for some time and the tradition of trying the wrists of the bride and groom with twine continues today in marriages in the use of sashes which are placed over the principal's wrists.

E. and M. A. Radford's The Encyclopedia of Superstitions has it that:

"In the seventeenth century, one or two of the bride-favours were always blue. These were knots of coloured ribbons loosely stitched on to the wedding gown, which were plucked off by the guests at the wedding feast, and worn as luck-bringers in the young men's hats."

The expression was recorded in 1717 by the English poet and diplomat, Matthew Prior. In his humourous poem, Alma; or, The Progress of the Mind he includes:

"So to the priest their case they tell: He ties the knot."

Francis Grose, in his 1811 edition of The Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue listed the 'knot tied with the tongue' with specific reference to marriage.

"He has tied a knot with his tongue, that he cannot untie with his teeth: i.e. he is married."

The Jewish tradition, like many others, also has a long history of the use of knots in the marriage ceremony. The Wilmingtonian And Delaware Advertiser, January 1826, reported this item under the banner of 'Miss Rothchild's Marriage':

"At an early hour on Monday morning, Stomford Hill, the country residence of N. M. Rothschild, Esq. was in a great state of bustle, and most of its inhabitants were on qui vive, waiting the approaching hour when Hymen was to tie the knot of a son and daughter of the house ot Judah."

Answer 4

Because it is fun to tie knots. No, really, it is just like the kissing. It ensures the bond between a couple... tight as a knot!

Answer 5

To tie the knot is a symbol of the interconnection of your lives after you get married.

Answer 6

It comes from the pagan celebration of hand fasting, when the couples hands are tied together with cords or ribbons.

Answer 7

The thought of giving birth comes to mind.All i can think of.

Answer 8

Because you are forever entangled in each other lives.

Answer 9

so there's no loose ends

Answer 10

i know - shouldn't you call it a NOOSE!!!!!