Our Jewish Wedding Ceremony
Chuppah
The ceremony will take place under a flowery canopy on four posts, known as a Chuppah. This symbolises the home that we will create together, with four open sides signifying that family and friends will always be welcome.
Circling
After entering the chuppah, we will circle each other a total of seven times (three times each and once together). The number 7 represents different things in Judaism. The world was created in seven days, symbolising us creating a new world together. 7 also corresponds to the 7 qualities of marriage: eternity, righteousness, justice, loving, kindness, compassion, faithfulness and knowledge.
BLESSINGs OVER WINE
There are two sets of blessings over wine within a Jewish ceremony. One symbolising the marriage proposal and the other the marriage. Each is a special occasion deserving its own attention and cup of wine. The first cup is to be enjoyed symbolising joy, we will both drink from the cup supported by our own mothers. The second cup comes later.
RING EXCHANGE
We will then exchange wedding bands as a sign of commitment to one another. In accordance with Jewish tradition, the rings will be placed on the right index fingers, which is believed to be connected by a special line directly to the heart. Once the rings have been accepted we are considered officially married under Jewish law.
KETUBAH - THE MARRIAGE CONTRACT
The Ketubah is a Jewish wedding contract outlining our mutual commitment. It is a statement of our love and devotion to one another. This text will be read by Rabbi Hannah so the wedding guests can bear witness to this agreement.
SEVEN BLESSINGS (SHEVA B'RACHOT)
The second set of blessings over wine. These blessings will be chanted by Rabbi Hannah followed by an English interpretation by seven of our guests. After the blessings, we will drink the second cup of wine guided by our mother-in-laws to represent the intertwining of the two families.
BREAKING OF THE GLASS
The well-known tradition of breaking a glass. A reminder of the fragility in life even in the most joyful of moments. After Nathan smashes the glass, we encourage everyone to shout “MAZEL TOV” to wish us congratulations and good luck.
