The HOW-TO's about
Northern Thai Wedding Ceremony
MARRIAGE IS THE tie that bonds a man and a woman together. Nearly everyone is aware of this definition, but like most definitions it is inadequate. The very essence of marriage is the personal relationship between a man and a woman -- not just a social bond. Marriages around the world differ in customs, traditions and practices, but this basic concept remains the same.
Different from other marriage ceremonies, the Northern or "Lanna" wedding has its unique feature. Northern people regard this function as an old tradition as well as a social gathering. The name of Lanna Wedding, "Kgin-Khaek" , literally indicates the Thai meaning. The word of Kgin is equivalent to EAT. It shows that Thai society is based on eating or food culture. Khaek means visitors or guests. (Incidentally, this word in modern usage has been applied particularly to Indians, Muslims, or Arabians who happened to migrate or visit Siam.) When the two words were put together, it meant the guests were invited to dine at the social gathering of a newly wed couple. The term is rather sloppy because it sounds like the only purpose is ..."to eat guests". On the other hand, wedding parties are alike with much merriment and feasting. The parents or hosts proudly announce to the guests that a son and daughter will officially and publicly become husband and wife.
The highlight of the spectacle is the "Pook Mue" or sacred cord tied around each wrist of the bride and groom by the guests. Both of them kneel and their arms rest on large pillows. Guests line up to tie the wrists with string which is made of 3-9 threads of cotton or yarn at about 10-12 inches wide. The sets of sacred cords are prepared in a tray and handed by the helpers to guests while approaching the bride and groom. All guests take the opportunity to congratulate couple with sincere wishes for future happiness, financial prosperity, promising business, good employment, wonderful health, and to have healthy children. As a matter of fact, the elders or very senior relatives are the first to start the procedure of tying the white string before other guests, i.e. grandparents, parents, close relatives, respectful person, and friends.