The Truth About Handfasting | Pagan Ritual or Harmless Tradition?

Should handfasting be part of a Christian wedding?
In this Discernment Drop, Pastor John Widdifield breaks down the origin, history, and theology behind the modern handfasting trend and explains—clearly and biblically—why this ritual does not belong in a Christian ceremony.

Handfasting looks beautiful, sentimental, and symbolic… but its roots go far deeper than most couples realize.
This episode walks you through:

🔍 What handfasting actually is
📜 Its pre-Christian origins
⚔ Why its symbolism clashes with biblical covenant
⛔ How pagan rituals were used as spiritual binding acts
🛡 Why Christian pastors reject it—even when couples don’t mean anything pagan by it
💍 Better, biblical alternatives for unity rituals in Christian weddings

If you’re planning a wedding, counseling couples, or simply trying to grow in biblical discernment, this episode will equip you with clarity, conviction, and historical truth.

Christ binds the covenant — not a cord.
And when we understand that, the entire conversation shifts.