Now you will feel no rain,
for each of you will be shelter for the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there will be no loneliness,
for each of you will be companion to the other.
Now you are two persons,
But there is only one life before you.
May beauty surround you both in the journey ahead and through all the years.
May happiness be your companion to the place where the river meets the sun.
And may your days be good and long upon the earth.
Please Note: This reading is widely known as the “Apache Blessing” and has been chosen by many couples for its beauty and sentiment. However, it’s important to know that it does not originate from authentic Apache tradition. The text was written by novelist Elliott Arnold and first appeared in his 1947 book Blood Brother, later popularised through the 1950 film Broken Arrow.
While this reading continues to hold meaning for many, we share this context out of respect for Native cultures and to support more accurate representation in wedding traditions.
