Jewish Weddings for Dummies

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Ketubah

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A ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract that outlines the groom's obligations to his bride and serves as a legally binding document. It is a central part of Jewish wedding ceremonies and is considered a beautiful and meaningful piece of art.

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Chuppah

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A chuppah is a canopy used in Jewish wedding ceremonies. It symbolizes the new home the couple will build together with its open sides symbolizing the open and welcoming nature of their shared life.

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Seven Circles

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In Jewish weddings, the bride circles the groom seven times symbolizing several things: creating a new family circle, forming a protective "wall" around the groom, and signifying the seven days of creation. It's a public declaration of commitment and a separation from the outside world, establishing the couple's new, exclusive domain. The number seven also represents completeness and perfection in Jewish tradition.

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Breaking of the Glass

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The breaking of the glass at a Jewish wedding is a symbolic act with multiple interpretations, but primarily serves to remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It also acknowledges that even in moments of great joy, there is an awareness of sadness and loss. The shattered glass can symbolize the fragility of life and relationships, urging couples to cherish their bond.

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Bedeken

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A Bedeken is a Jewish wedding tradition where the groom veils the bride just before the wedding ceremony. It's a symbolic act, often described as an emotional moment, where the groom acknowledges the bride's inner beauty and confirms he is marrying the right person.

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The Hora Dance

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The Hora is a lively Jewish circle dance often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Dancers form a circle, holding hands or linking arms, and move with a grapevine step. A key element is the lifting of the bride and groom on chairs while the dance continues around them, symbolizing joy and unity.