Filipino Wedding Glossary › Arrhae
Arrhae
Pronunciation: AH-rras
Origin: Spanish from Latin arrha (pledge), 13 wedding coins exchanged in Catholic Filipino ceremonies
Thirteen wedding coins exchanged during a Catholic Filipino ceremony, symbolizing shared resources.
Arrhae are the 13 coins handed by the groom to the bride during a Filipino Catholic wedding, often within a small ceremonial tray or box. The act symbolizes the couple's shared management of household resources.
The coins are usually blessed by the priest before the exchange. Some couples use heirloom coins; others purchase a new arrhae set from a bridal shop or jeweler.
The number 13 has multiple interpretations: the months of the year plus one, or a representation of Christ and the apostles. Either reading is offered by clergy depending on the parish.