since 2006
Should You Get Down on One Knee for a Marriage Proposal?
By Nicolas, proposal expert in Paris
The marriage proposal marks a major milestone in the lives of many couples and is often considered the most enchanting moment in their shared story. This event transcends cultures and time, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship.
If you're looking for Paris proposal ideas, our blog is an excellent source of inspiration to help make this moment truly unforgettable.
Among the many details to consider for a successful marriage proposal, kneeling remains one of the most traditional and symbolic gestures. But this act often raises questions: Is kneeling really necessary during such a pivotal moment? Why does this gesture hold so much significance? In this article, we explore this ritual to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your proposal.
The historical origins of the kneeling tradition
The tradition of kneeling dates back to medieval times, an era when rituals and symbolic gestures carried great significance. During the Middle Ages, knights were dubbed by kings or queens, showing their respect and devotion to their sovereign by kneeling. This act symbolized loyalty and submission to a higher authority.
To understand the significance of kneeling during a marriage proposal, it’s important to travel back to a time when marriages were less about romance and more about pragmatism. Back then, unions were rarely based on love but rather on political, economic, social, and familial considerations. Young individuals often had little say, with families negotiating and deciding their marital futures.
Marriages were frequently arranged to cement alliances between families, uniting their strengths, assets, territories, or securing financial interests. While women sometimes had limited freedom, they usually had no real choice in selecting their life partner. The decision rested with the family patriarch, who negotiated with other families to ensure the financial and social stability of his descendants.
Marriage proposals were essentially matrimonial transactions based on the concept of “manus” (hand), symbolizing the legal authority a father held over his daughter. By asking for the young woman’s hand, the prospective husband was effectively taking over this authority. This marked a significant shift in the woman’s life, moving from being a member of her father’s family to becoming part of her husband’s. The father formally transferred his legal power over his daughter to the future son-in-law. This symbolic transfer also implied a deeper involvement in the woman’s life, now considered a full-fledged member of her husband’s family.
The act of kneeling—originally a gesture of submission to a king or queen in medieval times—was incorporated into this “manus” ritual. By kneeling before his beloved, the man expressed respect, devotion, and commitment to her, reclaiming a gesture historically tied to loyalty toward a higher authority.
An evolution towards romance and deep love
Fortunately, over time, marriages have evolved toward more romantic expressions of love. The marriage proposal has shifted from a commercial, utilitarian transaction to a heartfelt celebration of profound love between two people.
The enduring tradition of kneeling during a proposal persists not only because of its historical roots but also due to its timeless symbolism. Once a sign of submission, kneeling has transformed into a gesture that transcends words, expressing respect, deep devotion, and sincere commitment to one’s partner.
A survey by The Knot reveals that despite changing attitudes, 87% of marriage proposals in 2022 still included the tradition of kneeling. This statistic highlights how popular this practice remains in modern society.
The act of getting down on one knee—rich in profound symbolism and capable of evoking overwhelming emotions—stands out as a gesture we highly recommend. When a man kneels, the emotions flooding his beloved reach extraordinary heights. You’ve likely seen on social media or in films a nearly universal reaction: faced with this gesture, the young woman is often overwhelmed, covering her mouth with one or both hands in astonishment. She knows that the most poignant moment of her life has arrived and eagerly awaits the magical words from her partner. Don’t deny yourselves this unforgettable moment, one that will leave an indelible mark on your hearts!
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Left knee or right knee?
As mentioned earlier, the tradition of kneeling during a proposal dates back to the Middle Ages, a time steeped in chivalrous rituals. Kneeling originally symbolized submission to the king or queen. When a man was knighted by a higher authority, he would kneel as a gesture of respect, obedience, and loyalty to the monarch—specifically on the left knee. The choice of the left knee had religious significance: the right knee was reserved exclusively for God during religious ceremonies, so kneeling on the left before the king was a clear expression of loyalty separate from religious devotion. In an era where religion played a central role, kneeling on the right knee outside religious contexts was considered blasphemous.
Over time, this practice evolved into the marriage proposal. Kneeling on the left knee before one’s beloved became a way to signify that this gesture was dedicated to love and devotion to the future spouse—not to a divine figure.
Thus, kneeling on the left knee has come to convey deep respect, total devotion, and loyalty to the loved one. It is a gesture rich in nobility, inherited from chivalrous customs that have endured through the centuries.
Conversely, kneeling on the right knee may still be seen today as carrying religious connotations. The right knee on the ground is associated with prayer, humility, and submission to a higher power. This symbolism reinforces the idea that a marriage proposal is not just a commitment to another person but also to broader values.
Whether you choose the left or right knee for your proposal, allow yourself to be guided by the moment. The intense and unprecedented emotions that will fill this occasion will surely upend any plans you may have made beforehand!
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Don’t miss out: read the heartfelt testimonials from lovers whose Paris engagement proposals we’ve organized. Almost all of them got down on one knee!
Presenting the ring with care
It’s when you’re down on one knee that you’ll pull out the box containing the engagement ring. Again, don’t hesitate to leave room for a bit of improvisation.
The engagement ring—a sparkling symbol of your future commitment—remains the centerpiece of any marriage proposal. Choosing the perfect ring is a crucial step, blending aesthetics, symbolism, and personality. It’s essential to know your partner’s preferred size and style. Opt for a ring that reflects her character and your shared commitment.
The engagement ring is far more than an accessory; it’s a declaration of love and a promise. Its significance lies in the fact that it will be worn every day, serving as a constant, tangible reminder of your union.
Every woman has her own unique style. Take note of her fashion sense, current jewelry, and personal preferences. Select a ring that harmonizes with her individual taste.
Whether it’s white gold, yellow gold, platinum, or even rose gold, the choice of metal defines the ring’s overall look. Consider which metals your partner typically prefers to wear.
As for the stone, while diamonds remain the classic choice, the possibilities are endless. Colored gemstones like sapphires or emeralds can add a distinctive, personal touch. Don’t forget to consider the symbolic meaning of the stones as well.
The size and shape of the diamond or precious stone are also important. Choose a size that fits your sweetheart’s lifestyle, while highlighting the elegance and shape of her hand.
When it comes to budget, set a realistic limit. It’s not necessary to sacrifice quality for size—a well-crafted, high-quality piece often offers far more lasting value than simply a large carat.
Exploring the world of marriage proposals and uncovering their traditions and symbolism is like stepping into a captivating story. The act of getting down on one knee—an ancient ritual that has stood the test of time—remains a powerful symbol of devotion and deep love. And what better place to seal your commitment than Paris, the city of love, with its timeless romance and enchanting atmosphere!
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