Page 452 - Special Occasion Prayers

452 Holy Matrimony
OR THE FOLLOWING SONG

നിതയ്സഹായമാേത ... (See page 107)

(After the return of couples)

BARUMARIAM SONG SEE PAGE 107
MEANING OF SOME WEDDING RITUALS
In the tradition of the Syro-Malabar Church and the Knanaya
Community, the marriage service has some special components:

1. Tying of the Thaali (Minnu)

Knanaya thaali is in the shape of a banyan leaf which in its
turn resembles heart which is the eternal and universal symbol of
love. The cross on the thaali is made with 21 small balls. This 21
is the result of the multiplication of three with seven, i.e., three
persons of the trinity and seven sacraments. The threads for thaali
are taken from the “Mantrakodi.” Seven pieces of threads are
taken and they are folded into three. These three and seven have
the above said significance. The bridegroom tie the thaali on the
neck of the bride. This kind of knot is known as male knot
(Aankettu) symbolizing the stability of marriage. Every woman
considers the Thaali to be the most prestigious token of love of-
fered to her by her husband during the ceremony.

2. Blessing of the Manthrakodi

The groom covers the head of the bride with the Manthrakodi,
a garment of prayers, which is given to the bride by the groom’s
family. The gift symbolizes the Lord giving glory to His Church.
It also acts as a special symbol of protection and acceptance of
the bride into the new family.

3. Barumariam Song

Barumariyam is a Syriac song sung by the priests just after the
wedding and Holy Mass. The priests pray for the new couples to
Jesus, the son of Mary and bless them in the name of Jesus. Baru-
mariyam in Syriac means son of Mary, i.e., Jesus. The same song
is sung by the Chaldeans on the important feasts like Easter and

Christmas.