Orthodox Jewish weddings are as much about faith and tradition as they are about celebrating two people in love. These weddings are typically very intimate affairs and are steeped in centuries of customs and rituals that are rich in symbolism.
The wedding starts with the bride and groom signing the Ketubah, a Jewish marriage contract. The Ketubah is traditionally written in Aramaic, a language spoken by Jews during the time of the Second Temple. This document outlines the husband’s obligations to his wife, as well as the wife’s rights in the marriage. It also contains blessings for the couple.
The Bedeken
The Bedeken is the traditional veil ceremony. The groom is escorted to the bride’s room, where he circles her several times with a veil. He then lifts the veil and confirms that he is marrying the woman of his choice. The Bedeken is a symbolic way of showing that the groom is protecting his bride and is a reminder of how beloved she is.
The Chuppah
The Chuppah is one of the most iconic symbols of an Orthodox Jewish wedding. This canopy, typically made of four poles and a cloth, is meant to represent the home that the couple will build together. The rabbi will say a blessing over the couple and then the bride and groom will process around the Chuppah seven times. This is symbolic of the seven wedding blessings, which are said seven times during the ceremony.
The Seven Blessings
The seven blessings are a series of prayers that are said during the ceremony. These blessings are traditionally said by seven special guests, with the bride and groom reading the final blessing. The blessings include a prayer for joy, a prayer for prosperity, a prayer for peace, and a prayer for love.
The Breaking of the Glass
At the end of the ceremony, the groom will step on and break a glass. This is a reminder of the destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. It is also a reminder of the fragility of life, and a reminder to remain humble and grateful. Breaking the glass is also a way of celebrating the joy of the moment.
The Yichud
After the ceremony, the bride and groom will go to a special room for the Yichud. This is a moment of privacy for the couple and a chance for them to spend a few moments alone together. This is also a chance for the bride and groom to exchange rings, if they haven’t already done so.
The Reception
After the Yichud, the bride and groom will typically go to the reception. This is a time for the couple to celebrate with family and friends. The reception is typically a festive affair and includes lots of singing, dancing, and feasting. The bride and groom will also typically receive gifts from their guests.
The Sheva Brachot
The Sheva Brachot are a series of seven blessings that are said in honor of the bride and groom. These blessings are said during the reception, typically right after the first seven blessings of the ceremony. The Sheva Brachot are a blessing for the couple’s health, happiness, prosperity, and future.
The Hora
The Hora is a traditional dance that is performed at the reception. The bride and groom are lifted up in chairs and are carried around the room. This is a chance for the couple to show their joy and for the guests to express their love for the couple. The Hora is typically a very festive affair and is a great way to end the reception.
Orthodox Jewish weddings are beautiful and meaningful celebrations of love and faith. These weddings are steeped in centuries of tradition, and are filled with symbols of joy, love, and protection. By participating in these ceremonies and honoring these customs, the bride and groom are celebrating their love and their faith.
