Purity rings are worn by teens and young adults to symbolize abstinence and chastity, with origins dating back to nuns wearing rings to symbolize marriage to Christ. They are often given at purity balls and can be made of various materials. Some criticize the concept of advertising virginity, but others see it as a symbol of commitment to chastity until marriage. Breaking the vow before marriage can be embarrassing, but it is possible to recommit.
The purity ring is a simple symbol worn by many teens and young adults to indicate that they intend to practice abstinence and chastity. These rings are thought by many to have been invented in the 1990s and promoted especially by Christian groups to encourage the teaching and celebration of remaining virginal. However, the origin of these rings can be traced much further back to the wearing of rings when some women would become nuns; The ring could symbolize a marriage with Christ.
Although most commonly worn by women, there are some men who also wear the purity ring. Rings are usually worn on the left hand of the ring finger, as a sort of placeholder until replaced by a wedding band. Once married, a person may no longer wear her ring, although some couples exchange rings on their wedding night.
There may be special ceremonies associated with obtaining a purity ring. A young woman or man can make a promise to God, in the presence of family or friends, to abstain from sexual relations before marriage. Purity rings are sometimes given to daughters at purity balls, which are father/daughter dance events. The ring need not be a ring; There are also chastity collars and bracelets.
The price of purity rings can vary. Silver rings can be purchased inexpensively, while elaborately designed gold rings can be expensive. Parents who intend to give a purity ring to a young teenager may want to consider the durability of the ring. A very inexpensive one may not hold up for the five or more years that it can be used.
Some people are uncomfortable with the concept of advertising virginity in this way. Most etiquette specialists consider it inappropriate to ask whether or not a person has been sexually active, and that it really isn’t anyone else’s business. On the other hand, many say that the purity ring is a symbol of possible dates that sexual intercourse cannot be expected, and this helps to retain the vow of chastity until marriage. Also, some people feel that a purity ring is a symbol to other young people that it is okay not to be sexually active.
If a person wearing a purity ring breaks their vow before marriage, there are several options. He or she might remove the ring, which could be very embarrassing in a predominantly Christian community. However, it may be possible for a young person to recommit and commit to being chaste from then on.
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