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There is something extremely appealing about getting married according to your family's customs. Many Jewish couples consider getting married as according to Jewish custom, but are confused about what that actually entails. It is a fairly intricate process, and requires excellent planning and preparation. It is extremely fulfilling to have a traditional wedding, and should not be taken lightly. The following is a simple guide to a Jewish wedding.
Halacha-Jewish Law-does not necessarily expect there to be a rabbi present at a marriage. It is common for rabbis to officiate weddings, however, and it feels much more religiously spiritual to go ahead and use one.
During the Sabbath that occurs before the wedding, it is customary for the groom to attend service in a synagogue and bless the Torah during prayer. This tradition holds the idea that the Torah will act as a guide for the couple during their married life. It is also an opportunity for the Jewish community to note the couple's union, and properly pray for and to congratulate them after the service.
On the day of the wedding, the betrothed couple usually will fast and ask God for forgiveness. It is a form of cleaning itself before a union to another. Many Jewish ceremonies also have the groom veil the bride prior to the wedding. The bride and groom travel to the canopy, the Chuppah, with escorts. There the bride will circle the groom seven times, and stand for two blessings which are read over wine.
When it comes time for the groom to place the right on the bride's finger, he recites the words, "Be sanctified (mekudeshet) to me with this ring in accordance with the law of Moses and Israel." At this point, the couple is officially married. The groom will then read the Ketubah (a contract of marriage) aloud to his wife, as though he is offering it to her. At this point, she will accept his Ketubah.
Wedding ceremonies are usually concluded with a reading of the Seven Blessings, which praise God for being the creator of people, feelings, and specifically the bride and groom. The couple will then drink wine together from the same glass, followed by the breaking of the glass by the groom with his right foot.
Immediately thereafter, the couple is attended to a private room where they break fast together. This event is imperative to a Jewish ceremony, as it significantly symbolizes their entrance into marriage together.
The fun comes after this, and is the most culturally known part of the wedding-the reception. This is a time for music, dancing, eating, and rejoicing. Many couples will play traditional Jewish music, keep kosher food for their guests, and fulfill the duties of hosts at their reception.
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Source by Budda Oliver
