Before proposing marriage it is of utmost importance to know and understand the history of marriage and its meaning. Marriage is a legally binding contract of love between a man and a woman, you can also say that it is a life-long commitment of trust, fidelity and friendship between two people of the opposite sex. The origin of marriage can be found in some of the earliest civilizations and social communities known in human existence.

Ancient hieroglyphics show that Egyptian wedding ceremonies were a normal standard and common practice. When reading the book of Genesis 2:21-25, we find one of the earliest examples of marriage history, which according to Hebrew culture, was the fundamental blueprint for matrimony.

When going through historical time lines we see that people marry for a number of reasons, some could include emotional, financial, religious, legal and social. In early history, marrying for love was not considered a practical reason for matrimony, in many cases, parents arranged marriages and used them as a way to bind two families together for territorial control and protection from opposing tribes or clans.

Check out these interesting facts:

The phrase “tying the knot” comes from a celtic tradition, it is said that both the bride and groom tied two pieces of cord or ribbon together in the marriage ceremony to symbolize their unification.

“Jumping the broom” is another phrase for marriage that has been popularized by today’s African-American communities. Scholars have stated that the origin of this practice comes from West Africa and dates back from the 1600′s. Many believe that the waving of the broom or jumping over it would ward off evil spirits.

Did you know that the diamond engagement ring first came on the scene in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented his new found love interest, Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring?

In Egyptian weddings, the wedding rings were placed on the third finger of the left hand, it is said that the vein in this finger, vena amoris or the “vein of love” is connected directly to the heart.

As you can see the history of marriage has many different facets and has evolved through the ages. I hope this information has enlightened you with a broader perspective on marriage history.

When proposing marriage, there are seven common courtesies you should always remember, I call these courtesies, marriage proposal etiquette.

1. First and foremost, the most important courtesy is also the most obvious…Always! and I mean Always! purchase an engagement or marriage  ring before proposing. This act shows your bride to be that you are thoughtful, classy, responsible and seriously ready to commit exclusively to her.

2. Aquaint yourself with the brides parents and get their blessing. This may sound old-fashioned or like funny marriage advice, but doing this is a surefire way of gaining her parents favor and love.

3. A well thought out plan is one of the principles of success, as a rule of thumb, make sure you plan out exactly how your going to propose to your future wife.

4. Timing is everything,when proposing marriage to your bride to be, always do it in a place where the both of you are mentally and emotionally comfortable, and relaxed. Proposing marriage in the hustle and bustle of the day or when either one of you is mentally drained would not be advantageous for you.

5. Another key to successful engagement etiquette is communication, be certain that marriage is something that the both of you truly desire and have communicated to be a future goal in your lives.

6. Remember to make this a private moment for just the two of you, never propose at another person’s event, (such as birthday parties, wedding receptions, etc.). It is important to give everyone’s special moment the same care and respect that you would give your own.

7. Make sure that you have tied up all loose ends or brought closure to all past relationships. There is nothing more confusing or chaotic than a third party in your relationship. When proposing marriage, you owe it to yourself and  to your future wife to start off on a clean, drama free slate.

Follow these seven tips and your bride to be will forever know, that on her proposal day, you were the one who showed gentleness, thoughtfulness and love.