According to various sources, including The Knot, Mat Tam Photography, Readers Digest, Zola Expert Wedding Advice, and Darry Ring, there is no hard and fast rule about which knee to get down on when proposing. However, there are some traditions and preferences that people follow. Here are some key points:
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Left knee: According to some sources, including The Knot, kneeling on the left knee is the most traditional form of proposing. This is because medieval knights would kneel on their left knees while being knighted, and this method is the proper way to show respect, deference, and surrender. Some cultures also consider the left knee to be more sacred since it is thought to be closest to the soul.
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Right knee: Proposing on the right knee is also an option, and it may feel more natural for left-handed individuals. According to Mat Tam Photography, more than 70% of the population is right-handed, and using the right leg might provide a more stable base. Proposing on the right knee also allows for the ring box to be presented with the left hand, giving the right hand more flexibility for any additional gestures, such as holding flowers or touching your partners hand.
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No knee: Its worth noting that getting down on one knee is not a requirement for proposing. As Readers Digest points out, the gesture of getting down on one knee while proposing has been connected to prayer, submission, deference, and respect, among other things. However, its ultimately up to the couple to decide what feels right for them.
In summary, there is no one "right" knee to propose on. Its a matter of personal preference and tradition. Ultimately, what matters most is the love and commitment between the couple.