Buddhist Wedding Vows

Weddings in Buddhist countries are considered secular affairs, but the couple usually also gets the blessing from monks at the local temple. For a Western couple with no access to such a temple, there is no formal ceremony structure, but usually the couple erects a shrine with a Buddha image, candles, and flowers. They light the candles, as well as incense, and place the flowers around the Buddha as an offering. You may include readings from the Dhammapada, a holy Buddhist book.

Traditional chants to Buddha include the Vandana, Tisarana, and Pancasila. You may also choose to include the traditional Buddhist homily. Blessings from friends and family who are present (as well as the couple bowing to their parents out of respect) are also inherent parts of the Buddhist wedding ceremony. There are no official vows; you may choose to say original words to each other.