Basically, henna night is a ritual of tattooing a bride-to-be's body parts of body, commonly hands and feet, with decorative patterns to prepare her for her wedding day.
What culture applies henna night for marriage?
Across the globe, there are a few cultures that incorporate this tradition in their bridal processions. A few of them are Egypt, Arab and Indonesia. In different parts of Indonesia, some still applies this tradition with different names; Mapacci to Bugis Makassar, Malam Bainai to Minangkabau, Pasang Pacar to Lampung and many others.
What does the ritual symbolize?
The symbolic meanings of henna night vary across the culture that applies it. However so, it usually revolves around kind and well wishes for the newlyweds such as the cast off evil spirits, enhancement of the bridal charm, and to wish a smooth wedding procession.
Do the symbols have a special meaning to it?
As the matter of fact, yes they do. Where and what is painted holds a different meaning to it. Here's a little guide to what the symbols mean.
1. Where it's painted
- on the palm: the designs invoke images of opening and offering
- on the back of hand: designs act as shield and protection
- on the right hand: Male, projective
- on the left hand: female, receptive
- on the feet: the feet are considered as a point of divine contract, a holy junction, where human being and earth meet.
2. Symbolisms
Peacocks - beauty
Butterflies - transformation
Flowers - joy and happiness
Vines and leaves - longevity, devotion, perseverance, entwined lives and vitality
Lotus Blossom - Grace, beauty, creativity, sensuality, femininity, and purity.
Sun, Moon, and Stars - deep and lasting love between lovers
Paisleys - represent fertility and good luck
The bud - signifying new growth especially at the end of a drought, and thus represent new life, fertility and joy - or as a metaphor in bridal mehndi to symbolize the start of a new love and a new life.
