By Stan Goodenough
The Jewish wedding is divided into two parts – the betrothal or sanctification, and the marriage, which is the consumation of the betrothal.
For the betrothal, the groom places a ring on the finger of the bride and says to her: “Be sanctified to me with this ring in accordance with the law of Moses and Israel.” Once she consents she has become his wife and the consumation of the marriage takes place as the newly weds stand under a chupah or special wedding covering. This cupah symbolizes the consummation of the marriage.
Seven blessings are read out to the newly married couple over a cup of wine, from which they both drink. An ornately designed wedding contract, known as a ketuba, which was drawn up before the ceremony is read aloud. This contract is traditionally a prenuptial agreement, outlining the responsibilities of the groom to his bride, to protect her in case of divorce.
At the conclusion of the wedding ceremony the groom traditionally crushes a small glass wrapped in a napkin under his foot. This is done to recall the destruction of the Second Temple, indicating that even at the hour of their greatest joy they bride and groom should not forget this enormous tragedy that befell their people.
The ceremony is followed by a festive meal, which in turn is accompanied by music, dancing and expressions of joy by all who are in attendance.
Jewish law forbids weddings on the Sabbath, during the biblical feasts and during special mourning times set apart on the Jewish calendar.
© Israel My Beloved
