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The Meaning Behind a Cord of Three Strands

Have you ever wondered about the meaning of a Cord of Three Strands ceremony or what it symbolizes? At Tassel Depot we have all the answers for you regarding unity cords and the infamous wedding knot.

Whether it’s called a unity braid or God’s Wedding Knot, wedding cords of three strands can add a meaningful touch to any wedding ceremony. It symbolizes a unique way to unify the love between two partners. Before you walk down the aisle, learn more about the meaning of the phrase “A Cord of Three Strands is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes is thought to be a poetic book and wisdom literature however the exact author is unknown. Compromised of 12 chapters talking all about the meaninglessness of a person being alone throughout their time on earth. 

“Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: there was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. ‘For whom am I toiling,’ he asked, ‘and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?’ This too is meaningless — a miserable business!” (Ecclesiastes 4:7-8).

The whole book carries a similar theme of people remembering God as their Maker and serving Him (Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13, 14). This leads to the author talking about the strength of two people working in life together, and how if these two people accept God as a third person in their bond then, much like the cord, they will be stronger.

What Is the Cord of Three Strands Ceremony?

In Ecclesiastes 4:12, the Bible verse about three strands tells us that “though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” The author talks about the strength of numbers and how the three-cord strand will always be stronger than the single-cord strands.

The Cord of Three Strands represents God, the groom, and the bride – braiding these three strands symbolizes the joining of one man, one woman, and God in marriage. By keeping the Lord at the center of marriage, His love will continue to grow and bind the couple together.

While this symbolic unity braid is not included in traditional wedding ceremonies, it’s a lovely alternative for the more common sand service and unity candle traditions. The Cord of Three Strands ceremony is also a wonderful option for outdoor weddings or venues that do not permit open flame, as a unity candle requires.

The ceremony portion involving the Cord of Three Strands takes place towards the end. While the groom holds the top ring connecting the cords, the bride braids the strands together, symbolizing the union between husband, wife, and God. Once the unity braid is completed, the officiant wraps the couple’s hands with it or drapes the triple-braided cord over their shoulders to signify the bond between them. During this time in the ceremony, the couple often chooses to have an explanation of the Cord of Three Strands ceremony read to the guests.

What Does Each Color in A Cord of Three Strands Represent?

Each color in a Cord of Three Strands represents the elements of the bond:

Gold Strand – represents God, to glorify Him for His initiation and building of the covenant relationship.

Purple Strand – represents the groom.

White Strand – represents the purity of the bride.

“The Cord of Three Strands is not easily broken,” meaning shows that both the purple and white strands represent the partners' commitment to one another and the Lord, in turn, the Lord will demonstrate great love in the marriage and will nurture and strengthen it.

Can You Customize a Cord of Three Strands?

While the traditional Cord of Three Strands includes a gold, purple, and white cord, Tassel Depot can customize your cords to match your wedding colors. It is the perfect wedding relic to cherish as a keepsake or as a wedding gift. Each Cord is 25” long and 1/4” in diameter while the ring is 2-1/2” in diameter. We offer a wide variety of colors to choose from to match the style of your wedding.

Tassel Depot Wedding Tip: Unity cords are lovely wedding favors for all your guests on their own or you can incorporate them into other décor elements. 

Celebrate Your Wedding With Tassel Depot

No one does party decorations better than Tassel Depot! Our collection of different party favors and décor suits different styles. Use beaded program tassels to spice up your wedding invitations, programs, or guest place cards. A simple adornment adds elegance to any printed piece.

We also offer napkin rings and ties in a variety of colors and styles to complement your wedding aesthetic. We have everything you need to polish the details of your wedding décor and ensure everything meets customer expectations. Be sure to visit our online store for tassels, cords, and more to customize your Cord of Three Strands and other wedding décor.