Ketubah
Circling
Kiddushin
In this first part of the wedding ceremony the couple sanctifies their commitment towards one another. This part of the ceremony includes the first cup of wine. Couple often bring a special kiddush cup that is meaningful to them or represents them as a couple.
The ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract. Traditionally, the ketubah discussed the dowry and the groom’s responsibilities to the bride. In modern times, the ketubah details the commitments the couple makes to each other, and some couples even choose to write their own ketubah. While the ketubah was traditionally written in Aramaic, many modern ketubot are written in Hebrew and English, or any language the couple would like.
Before entering the chupah, it is customary for the couple to circle each other seven times. This represents the seven days of creation and signifies the home and relationship that the couple will build together. Traditionally, the bride circles the groom seven times, but many couples choose to update this tradition to be more egalitarian. Each partner circles the other three times, and the couple then circles each other one final time.
The Rings
When the couple exchanges rings, it is customary to place the rings on each others’ index fingers because it is said that there is a blood vessel that runs from the index finger directly to the heart. The traditional wedding vow is, “You are consecrated to me with this ring in the name of God and Israel.” Some couples choose to say, “I am my beloved, and my beloved is mine”
Sheva B’rachot
The Sheva B’rachot, or the seven blessings, bless the bride and groom the lens of Jewish history. They tell the story of creation, the garden of Eden, and the celebration of the wedding couple in the streets of Jerusalem. In addition to the traditional Hebrew recitation, some couples choose to have their friends recite each of these blessings in English. Some couples even use a creative translation of the Sheva B’rachot. These blessings include the second cup of wine.
Breaking the Glass
At the end of the ceremony, it is customary to break a glass by stepping on it. There are several explanations for this tradition. One is that it reminds us of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. Another explanation states that we choose to celebrate the difficulties in a marriage as well as the joy. After the glass is broken, the guest shout, “Mazal tov!”