Las arras
', or ' (English: arrhae, wedding tokens, or unity coins) are wedding paraphernalia used in Christian wedding ceremonies in Spain, Latin American countries, and the Philippines. The tradition is also followed, with varying names and customs, in other countries and communities bearing degrees of Hispanic influence. Traditionally, in Spain and Latin America, it is made up of thirteen gold coins presented in an ornate box or chest; in the Philippines, it is in an ornate basket or pouch. After being blessed by a priest, they are given or presented by the groom to the bride. Origins and representation. The word  arras is Spanish, meaning "earnest money" (arrhae, plural of ""), "bride price", or "bride wealth". The custom of using coins in weddings can be traced to a number of places, including Spain and Rome. The book "An Introductory Dictionary of Theology and Religious Studies" claims that origin of "arras" was from gold rings or coins in Visigothic law, whereas the "Sex and Society" claims the practice emerged from Frankish marriage ceremonies. As to the number, the thirteen coins placed inside the decorated boxes, pouches, or trays represent the twelve months of the year and the poor (the thirteenth). Perhaps trying to  make sense of it all, Reynolds & Witte wrote that the Franks during their weddings gave 13 pennies while the Spanish gave coins or some sort of marriage gift. These two practices then merged in the 11th century. The thirteen coins today have the alternative meaning of Jesus and the twelve apostles. The exchange of the coins represents the groom's promise to provide for his family and the bride's trust in his ability to do so. In Filipino and Hispanic weddings, an "arrhae-bearer" or "coin-bearer” is included as a second page in the entourage, in addition to  the ring bearer. Unlike the ring bearer, however, he carries the actual arrhae in its case on a cushion. This optional Hispanic rite and its Spanish text was approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2010. In September 2016, an English language version was approved and placed in the English Order of Celebrating Matrimony, along with the wedding cord. Other usage. Depending on the culture in which this tradition is followed, the tradition of may be used on different occasions, although it is rare in most Hispanic countries. They may be used for quinceañeras, debutante balls for  young ladies, and at bat mitzvahs. Other definitions. In legal terminology, an is a civil law contract. Legally, it could also mean money or items with value given by a buyer to a vendor. The purpose of giving such a payment is to provide an evidence of "contract earnest". It is usually part of a pre-contract.