The meaning behind blood markings in Daemon and Rhaenyra’s wedding ritual in House of the Dragon Episode 7

The marriage of Daemon and Rhaenyra in House of the Dragon episode 7 was enigmatic and unlike any we’ve seen on the show or its predecessor. The show brought attention to many different Valyrian customs, like placing a dragon egg in a baby’s cradle and Rhaenyra and Laenor’s dance before their wedding ceremony. While Rhaenyra’s first wedding was similar to usual Christian marriages, with a priest officiating it and exchanging vows, Targaryen wedding rituals are quite different.

There is no need for a priest; anyone, including women, can officiate Targaryen marriages. Daemon and Rhaenyra cut each other’s lips with a piece of dragonglass and allowed their blood to mix with a kiss. Then they cut the palms of their hands and joined them, letting the blood flow into each other. The mixing of blood can signify how old Valyrians, especially Targaryens, would form incestuous marriages to keep their blood pure. The symbols they wrote on each other’s foreheads are actually High Valyrian. Daemon draws the Valyrian character for “Fire” on Rhaenyra, and she draws “Blood” on him. Fitting, as “Fire and Blood” are the words of House Targaryen.

The markings that Daemon and Rhaenyra draw on each other during their wedding stand for “Fire” and “Blood” in High Valyrian.

“Fire and Blood” are the words of House Targaryen. #HouseOfTheDragon pic.twitter.com/u2FbuD9rCn

— out of context house of the dragon (@oochotd) October 5, 2022

Their outfit also included the signature Targaryen touch; the color red, and the whole scene felt intimate and holy. With only their children and an officiant, this was a secret ceremony, knowing King Viserys and others would disapprove, seeing how Laena and Laenor had just passed away. But this couple had been a long time coming. It is beautiful seeing how they bring out the fire in each other. What did you think of their marriage? Join our discord server to tune into more such discussions.

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