Rachel & Austin
Jewish Wedding Traditions
Wedding Ceremony
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KETUBAH: The ketubah is a Jewish marriage contract which outlines the couple's commitment to one another. The ketubah is signed prior to the wedding ceremony and a portion of the ketubah will be read during the ceremony. CHUPPAH: The chuppah is a wedding canopy that consists of a cloth supported by four poles which is open on all sides. We will stand under the chuppah for the duration of the ceremony. The chuppah represents the creation of our new home together and is a show of hospitality to our assembled guests. FIRST BLESSING: The ceremony begins with a blessing of the first of two cups of wine. Wine represents joy in Judaism, and the Cantor will invite Rachel and Austin to sip from the cup. Then comes a second shorter blessing, called the shehecheyanu. This blessing gives thanks for the delight of reaching this wonderful moment. SHEVA B'RACHOT (Seven Blessings): : These blessings focus on joy, celebration, and the power of love. BREAKING THE GLASS: At the end of the ceremony, Austin will step on a glass inside a cloth bag, shattering it. The breaking of the glass holds multiple meanings. Traditionally, it is a symbol of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. As a couple, it reminds us of the commitment we have made to support each other during times of challenge and sadness. MAZEL TOV!: Once the ceremony is over and the glass is broken, guests should cheer "Mazel tov!" Mazel tov has a similar meaning to 'good luck' or 'congratulations'.
Wedding Reception
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BLESSING OF THE BREAD: Known as the motzi, the wedding meal begins with a blessing over the challah, a sweet, braided bread. THE HORA: A traditional Jewish dance where the bride and groom are lifted in chairs high above the crowd while friends and family dance around the couple to the sound of Hava Nagila. Hava Nagila means "let us rejoice" and it is an Israeli folk song often sung at Jewish celebrations.