The Saptapadi (Seven Steps) is the central ritual of a Hindu wedding, wherein the bride and groom take seven steps together around the sacred fire (Agni), each step accompanied by a specific vow. The mantras are primarily derived from the Grihya Sutras, particularly the Ashvalayana Grihya Sutra (1.7.2-8) and the Paraskara Grihya Sutra (1.8.1-7), which prescribe the verses for each step. The Rigveda (10.85, the Vivaha Sukta) also provides the foundational hymns for marriage, including the famous verse 'Om eka isha' (Rigveda 10.85.38) that is often chanted during the first step. The seven vows are: 1) for nourishment and sustenance, 2) for strength and vitality, 3) for prosperity and wealth, 4) for happiness and harmony, 5) for progeny and family, 6) for health and longevity, and 7) for friendship and lifelong companionship.
The mantras are typically chanted by the priest, with the groom repeating after him, while the bride touches each step or the groom's foot. The deity invoked is primarily Agni, the fire god, who serves as witness and purifier. The beej-akshara 'Om' precedes each vow, and the mantras often include the phrase 'ishah' (meaning 'desired' or 'plenty') as in 'Om eka ishah' (for one step for nourishment). The purpose is to establish a sacred, lifelong bond based on mutual duties and companionship.
According to the Manu Smriti (3.30-31), the saptapadi completes the marriage; after the seventh step, the union is irrevocable. The recommended chanting context is during the wedding ceremony, after the kanyadana (giving away of the bride) and before the mangalsutra tying. The count is exactly seven steps, each with its own mantra. Ritual setting involves a homa (fire sacrifice) with offerings of ghee and grains.
Cautions: The mantras must be chanted with correct pronunciation and intention; any mistake is considered inauspicious and may require atonement. Traditionally, the bride and groom should be focused and respectful, as the vows are binding for life.
Om, for one step for nourishment, may Vishnu lead you.
The mantra begins with the seed-syllable 'Om', which is the primordial sound and a common beej for all mantras. No other distinct beej-aksharas are present.