Fire & Water
Fire and water are symbols throughout many cultures and beliefs. They can represent a great number of things, but almost always have suggestions of cleansing. Native American weddings are no different.
The bride and groom each had their hands washed ceremoniously, to purify and cleanse them. It was also meant to wash away any evil spirits, and more importantly any memories of past loves.
As the ceremony concluded, the bride and groom would show their union with a beautiful and exciting ceremony. Within a circle with high sides made of stone, a spiritual leader would bless seven types of specially cut wood, as well as the circle itself. Three fires are set: One large fire in the center to represent the creator, and the holy union to be joined into; two smaller fires, one at the north side and the other at the south, are set to represent the separate and individual lives of the bride and groom. The smaller fires are lit only after offering prayers, and having the spiritual leader sprinkle tobacco, sage, sweet grass, and corn over each fire. After this blessing, each pushes their small fire into the the larger fire, representing their union under the Creator.
