Hindu Relationship Teachings
Hindu tradition views marriage (Vivah) as one of the most important samskaras—sacred ceremonies marking life transitions. It's a spiritual partnership for dharma, artha, kama, and moksha.
The Four Aims in Marriage
Hindu philosophy identifies four purposes of life (purusharthas), all of which marriage supports:
- Dharma: Righteous living, duty, and moral order
- Artha: Prosperity and material security
- Kama: Pleasure, love, and aesthetic experience
- Moksha: Spiritual liberation and self-realization
Key Insight
Hindu marriage wisdom recognizes that relationships serve both worldly AND spiritual purposes. Physical pleasure (kama) is celebrated as sacred within marriage, not suppressed.
The Saptapadi: Seven Sacred Vows
During Hindu weddings, couples take seven steps together, each representing a sacred commitment:
- Step 1: Nourishment and providing for each other
- Step 2: Growing together in strength and health
- Step 3: Prospering and sharing wealth
- Step 4: Sharing joys and sorrows
- Step 5: Caring for family and children
- Step 6: Remaining together through seasons of life
- Step 7: Lifelong friendship and spiritual companionship
"With these seven steps, you have become my friend. May I deserve your friendship. Let us be friends forever.
Ardhangini: The Half-Body
The concept of wife as "ardhangini" (half of the body) emphasizes that spouses are incomplete without each other— true partners in all aspects of life and spirit.
This is beautifully expressed in the image of Ardhanarishvara— the divine as half Shiva (masculine) and half Shakti (feminine), representing the cosmic unity of all polarities.
Reviewing Your Vows
Revisit your wedding vows (or create new ones). Do they still resonate? How well are you living up to them? Discuss with your partner.
Practical Hindu Marriage Wisdom
- Respect elders: Family wisdom guides the couple
- Perform rituals together: Shared puja strengthens bonds
- Serve each other: Seva as expression of love
- Honor festivals: Celebrate together
- Practice patience: Kshama (forgiveness) is divine
- Support dharma: Help each other's spiritual growth
The Seva Practice
- 1Each day, perform one act of selfless service for your partner
- 2Don't announce it or expect thanks—do it purely for love
- 3At the end of the week, share what you noticed
- 4Discuss: How did giving without expectation feel?
Reflect on This
Which of the four aims (dharma, artha, kama, moksha) is your relationship nurturing well? Which needs more attention?
Key Insight
Hindu wisdom teaches that marriage is an ashrama—a stage of life as sacred as any other, including renunciation. The householder life can be a complete path to spiritual realization.
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