Is your minnu around your neck, close to your heart….or tucked away in a jewelry box?
The husband presents a gold pendant known as the minnu to his wife. The Celebrant blesses the minnu and then holds the thread with the minnu, for the groom to tie it around the neck of the bride. By this they declare that they are tied together for life.
A minnu is in the shape of a banyan tree leaf. The banyan tree spreads out to cover a wide area and provides shelter and comfort to others. It represents eternal life and symbolizes unity. Thus the minnu represents a long and happy married life, a safe and comfortable place for children to grow up and a family that cares for the needs of the community.
On one side of the minnu is a cross made with 12 small beads(muthu) signifying the Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit (3) and the Fruits of the Holy Spirit, the nine visible attributes of a true Christian --- love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (9).
A married Christian woman should always wear her minnu. Keep in mind the minnu is not an ornament it is part of her life.
On one side of the minnu is a cross made with 12 small beads(muthu) signifying the Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit (3) and the Fruits of the Holy Spirit, the nine visible attributes of a true Christian --- love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (9).
A married Christian woman should always wear her minnu. Keep in mind the minnu is not an ornament it is part of her life.
