Gleanings:An explanation of why the bride and groom wear crowns

 

Garlands are wont to be worn on the heads of bridegrooms, as a symbol of victory, betokening that they approach the marriage bed unconquered by pleasure. But if captivated by pleasure he has given himself up to harlots, why does he wear the garland, since he has been subdued?

St John Chrysostom, Homily IX. on 1 Timothy ii. 11–15 (http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf113.v.iii.x.html)

 

In Slavic churches, metal crowns are worn, whereas the Greeks use flower garlands. The meaning is the same. This homily was one of the ones of St John’s that applies to todays readings.

 

 

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