What is a Taken In Hand relationship?

[Editor's note: This is an FAQ question; please bear that in mind when posting on this thread. Ensure that your post answers the question. It is fine to write about what Taken In Hand is for you personally, but more general answers to the question (or answers containing more general information) would be particularly appreciated. Click here for the FAQ index.]

Here are several different answers to the question what is a Taken In Hand relationship? Each explains in a slightly different way and will appeal to a slightly different audience, but they are all talking about the same thing.

The site owner's answer to the question: What is a Taken In Hand relationship?
An overview of Taken In Hand
What are the defining characteristics of a Taken In Hand relationship?
A brief introduction to Taken In Hand (from a Biblical perspective)
Could this kind of relationship be for you? (this is for those who see themselves as traditional)
Another answer to the question: What is a Taken In Hand relationship? (for those coming from a BDSM perspective)
What Taken In Hand is, and what it is not

See also:
What you need to know about Taken In Hand
The subjection of women
Why do some prefer a Taken In Hand relationship to a conventional relationship?
Is a Taken In Hand relationship for everyone?
What do you mean, you want to be taken in hand?!
Why is real punishment spanking erotic?
Is this really consensual?
Who needs forbidden fruit when you have this?!
He's in charge. . . but I do it my way

FAQ index

Take the Taken In Hand tour