Jewish Wedding Rituals

Performing the nuptial knot in this sect is not only about exchanging rings. It constitutes of traditional customs, which are meaningful and rich. These traditions act as a reminder for both the bride and the groom that they are not only responsible towards each other but also towards their religion and culture.

They start with the Yom Kippur in which both the bride and the groom are forgiven for their past mistakes. In Kabbalat Patim, the bride and the groom are not supposed to see each other from a week before the event. It is followed by the 'badeken' in which the groom veils the bride. The bride and the groom are then led to the open 'chupah' where the ceremony is held. The couple does not wear any jewellery to the chupah. The bride circles the groom 7 times and the groom then takes position on her right side. The occasion, known as 'kiddushin', is accompanied by a cup of wine. The couple drinks wine from the cup after getting blessings from the Betrothal.

The centre of the main ceremonies is the 'Giving of the Ring' by the groom to the bride. Then the Ketubah, the contract, is read which is signed by two witnesses. Post Ketubah, the Sheva Brachot, the seven blessings are recited by the rabbi. After this, the couple again drinks wine. The last of the rites is the breaking of the glass ceremony. The couples break their fast during Yichud. Seudh follows where the guests eat and drink. After the meal Birkat Hamazon (grace after meals) and Sheva Brachat are recited.

The festive meal is held amidst a lot of dance and music as per the tradition. Often the guests show heir skills of juggling and aerobics during the feast. After the following week of the main event, the guests and the relatives are supposed to hold festive meals in honor of the couple. This is known as the week of Sheva Brachot. It is named so because of the blessings being recited at the end of each meal.