JOSEPH W. TKACH
February 1988
Dear Friend:
Thank you for your question concerning wedding rings.
Exodus 35 records that rings were included with the offering
the Israelites gave for the building of the Tabernacle. There is
not the slightest indication that God was displeased with their
wearing rings.
The Bible records that God was with Joseph when he was sold
into slavery in Egypt. Joseph served God, and God caused him to
find favor in the eyes of the Pharaoh. In Genesis 41:41-42, we
find that Joseph accepted a ring from the Pharaoh. It is plain
from the context that the ring was a symbol of the very high
office which had been bestowed upon him. God was not displeased
with this, and the next few chapters show that God continued to
bless and guide Joseph.
In principle, the ring given to Joseph served much the same
purpose as that of a wedding ring. A wedding ring is merely a
symbol of the marriage vows that have been made.
One further example is the famous story of the prodigal son.
Jesus used this parable to illustrate God the Father's love
toward a repentant sinner. The father, who pictured God, ordered
a ring to be put on the son's hand (Luke 15:22)
All of the evidence is positive. The Bible nowhere
criticizes the wearing of rings in general or wedding rings in
particular.
Whenever we may assist you further with your study of the
Bible, we hope you will let us know. It is our pleasure to serve
you.
PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT
PASTOR GENERAL