Silver ring "Save and Preserve"
The ring "Save and Preserve" made of silver is a strong protective amulet for a believer. Recently, more and more people acquire this jewelry with meaning.
Who needs it and what for?
Of all Orthodox jewelry, rings with the inscription "Save and Preserve" are especially popular, although they contradict the belief that all church amulets should be worn under clothing. But the metal is chosen correctly. Silver has always been distinguished by the properties of healing and mysticism.
Before purchasing such jewelry, you need to decide on the purpose of the purchase. A silver ring is an option for deeply religious people who understand the true purpose of the ring.
For those who want to buy a simply beautiful piece that emphasizes belonging to a certain faith, there are now many "Save and Save" jewelry in stores, made not only of silver, but also of other, more expensive metals.
An engraved phrase is not an easy combination of letters and words. This is a call to God. With her, believers turn to him so that he would save them and save their souls. The same words are written on every icon and crosses.
Given this fact, one cannot treat such a ring as a fashionable or sought-after piece of jewelry. Only a person who has undergone a baptismal ceremony can wear it.
History
For the first time, the ring "Save and Preserve" is mentioned in Genesis, which speaks of Joseph, who was given such an ornament by the Pharaoh of Egypt. Only the decoration was made of gold, since it was this metal that was revered by the ancient Egyptians and was considered a sign of wealth and recognition.
All important documents were supported by seals from such rings. After such a gift to Joseph, the entire Jewish people began to believe that only people of a certain position could wear rings.
In mentions of the king of the Jews, Jeconiah, he is compared to a ring on God's right hand.This suggests that in those days they attached no small importance to the decoration on the right hand.
In the story of Jesus Christ about the prodigal son, it tells how the prodigal son came to his father and he ordered to bring him the best clothes, shoes and a precious ring. So he expressed love for his prodigal offspring and elevated him back to the status of a son.
These stories from the Bible show that the "Save and Preserve" ring can rightfully be considered Orthodox paraphernalia. It came to us from Byzantium.
For many centuries in a row, such jewelry was purchased by pilgrims exclusively on the territory of the monastery. But in the 19th century, they began to be sold in church shops and jewelry stores.
Rings began to take on a new shape - silver metal was replaced by gold or platinum, modesty and laconicism disappeared, jewelers began to insert precious stones into jewelry.
The classic jewelry has an inscription with a prayer on the rim on the outside. But for those who do not want too much attention to their religious beliefs, there are models with an inscription inside the product.
Why Silver?
Since ancient times, silver has been considered a mystical metal. Alchemists considered it to be the metal of the moon and portrayed it as a young guy with a month painted on his head. And silverware adorned the tables of noble and wealthy people.
Studies show that it is silver that helps prevent diseases of the digestive and respiratory systems. In addition, there is no need to once again mention its bactericidal properties. Silver is connected with religion by the fact that it is from it that the frames for icons are cast.
Of the shortcomings of silver, one can single out only that it can turn black. Some say that this is from time to time, while others believe that damage is on the person. Whether it is true or not, it is impossible to say for sure, but it is not so difficult to clean a silver jewelry, you can do it even at home.
You need to mix toothpaste, ammonia, baking soda. Then you need to spread the decoration with this mass. Finally, wipe it down with a brush.
When asked whether it is worth lighting up the ring, experts say it is a necessary and principled ritual. He will breathe power into the ring. Such an ornament can be worn not only by yourself, but also as a gift to loved ones.
How to choose and how to wear?
After you figured out what you need this amulet for, feel free to go to the church shop or jewelry store. According to the clergy, the best place to buy would be a church shop or a temple. It is there that you can find out whether the ring is consecrated or not. Remember that only a consecrated piece of jewelry carries true meaning.
Choose a silver jewelry for the above reasons. If everything is clear about the choice, then how to properly wear this amulet is not entirely clear. There is a lot of controversy on this score. Of course, there are no strictly limiting rules on this matter, but in the temple you will be given some advice on this matter.
“Save and Preserve” rings can be worn by all baptized people without exception. Therefore, there are not only male, but also female models. If the jewelry was purchased for the purpose of protection, then they wear it with an inscription from themselves, but if you simply indicate your religion, then it is better to turn the inscription to yourself.
Orthodox believers cross with three fingers of their right hand, so it is recommended to wear the ring on the middle or thumb of the same right hand. If the ring is intended for a wedding, then they wear it in the future as the priest put it on you during the ceremony.
Just like a pectoral cross, a ring is a personal thing. You can’t give it “vilify”, give it or just try it on. And remember that the ring is only a decoration and does not guarantee salvation from all troubles and accidents. It will give strength and confidence, the rest will be ordered by God and fate.
For a wedding
After Soviet atheism, the wedding tradition is gaining popularity again among young couples.For a wedding, as well as for a wedding, rings are chosen, a popular option is "Save and Preserve".
Having decided on a wedding, the newlyweds do not think about the purpose of the rings and the fundamental difference between wedding and wedding rings. But each of them has its own purpose.
Like our ancestors, we adhere to the tradition of first wedding, then wedding. Only among the ancient Slavs was the engagement something like an engagement, and the wedding was the most important part.
Rings for the church ceremony were not chosen paired. The bridegroom was presented with gold jewelry, the bride - silver. The first symbolized Jesus Christ and was considered a symbol of his Heavenly Glory. The second ring, silver, personified the church, purity and grace.
Today, there are no restrictions on this, and those who are married simply exchange identical gold rings, and the church does not dictate its own conditions. Therefore, many couples get married with wedding jewelry. But ideally, of course, it would be better to follow the traditions and choose the "Save and Preserve" amulet rings.