Jiaobeijiu

Origins and history

The custom likely began in the late Neolithic period. By the Zhou dynasty, texts like the Liji described couples drinking together in the bridal chamber to confirm their bond. During the Qin dynasty and earlier, participants used jin, which were ladles carved from split gourds. These natural vessels represented a harmonious life and the vow never to separate. Later, a bitter fruit called pao replaced the gourd. Its sour taste reminded spouses to cherish each other through hardship and health alike.

Evolution of the ritual

Over centuries, the materials changed while the meaning stayed strong. In the Tang dynasty, solid double cups known as Hejinbei replaced the fragile gourds and fruits. These allowed the couple to hold both vessels comfortably while drinking side by side. By the Song dynasty, artisans added silk ribbons to connect the two cups. This physical link visually reinforced the idea that the husband and wife were now bound together for life, moving away from the raw natural elements of the past.

How it is kept today

In modern Chinese weddings, the couple stands before guests and crosses their arms. They hold a cup in each hand, reaching across to drink from the opposite vessel. This gesture requires coordination and trust, mirroring the cooperation needed in marriage. The act is performed publicly to witness the vows of no separation. Although the specific type of wine may vary, the core action of sharing the drink remains a standard part of the ceremony across the country.

How Jiaobeijiu is kept

The bride and groom stand facing each other or slightly angled. They each hold one cup, usually containing wine. They then cross their arms so that each person holds the cup intended for the other. They sip from these crossed cups simultaneously. This physical intertwining represents their new status as a single unit. Guests watch this moment as a public declaration of their shared future and mutual support.

When and where

This rite occurs during the main wedding ceremony. It typically follows the exchange of rings or vows. The timing is fixed within the ritual sequence, ensuring all witnesses see the symbolic act of unity before the feast begins.

The custom is practiced throughout China. It is a standard element of traditional Han Chinese weddings. While regional variations in wine or cup design may exist, the core ritual of crossing arms to share wine is widespread and recognized nationwide.

What Jiaobeijiu means

The ritual symbolizes the joining of two lives into one. Drinking from the same source signifies shared joy and sorrow. The bitter fruit origin reminds couples of resilience. The linked cups represent an unbreakable bond. The act promises that the partners will face all aspects of life together, never separating from one another.

Who takes part

• The couple: Cross arms and sip wine from each other's cups
• Guests: Witness the union and celebrate the vows

If you are a guest

Guests observe the crossing of arms and the sipping of wine. They witness the public vow of unity. No specific gifts or actions are required from attendees during this moment. Their presence serves as validation of the marriage contract being sealed.

Then and now

The practice remains common in contemporary Chinese weddings. Modern couples often use decorative linked cups instead of the historical gourds or bitter fruits. The ritual adapts to current aesthetics while preserving its ancient meaning of inseparable partnership and shared destiny.

On the wedding table

• Wine: Shared between the couple to symbolize unity and lifelong commitment

Symbols: Wine and the shared cup

Questions people ask about Jiaobeijiu

See also

KizombaA slow, sensual partner dance from Angola that turns wedding parties into intimate social gatherings.Red Thread of FateAn invisible cord that links destined lovers across time and distance.RomvongA circular folk dance across Southeast Asia where couples hold hands and step in time with drums.Weddings in MaliMulti-day Malian wedding traditions blending Islamic rites, civil law, and local customs with bazin attire.

Good reading and sources

• Jiaobeijiu on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.