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INTRO TO TRADITIONS: Jewish Weddings
-Everything from one ring to Mazel Tov! We take you through the customs of a typical Jewish wedding-
Chatan: Hebrew for Groom
Kallah: Hebrew for Bride
Ketubah: the matrimonial contract explaining the bride and groom’s commitment to each other.
Badeken: the veiling of the bride.
Chuppah: a tent-like structure located at the altar where the ceremony occurs
Yichud: Brief seclusion after the ceremony where the bride and groom are permitted to break their fast.
Jewish wedding customs and traditions vary a great amount due to the various differences between the Reformed, Conservative, and Orthodox customs and traditions. The following is an example of one of the various different ways the weddings proceedings may ensue. Though the ceremony may occur in different ways, there is one ideal that remains constant regardless of the sect. Marriage is the ultimate state of being in Judaism. A man and a woman are not spiritually complete without the presence of a significant other.
The Ketubah
The wedding proceedings begin with the Ketubah. This document, which is written, in the ancient language Aramaic, outlines the responsibilities and commitment that the bride and groom are making for each other. It is traditionally signed by the couple as well as an additional two witnesses. Though in the past, the Ketubah was an essential document, in the present day, it no longer has any legal significance in the court of law.
After the Ketubah is signed by all the required parties, the next step is called the Badeken. This tradition, which is centuries old, is where the groom is responsible for the veiling of the bride. Accompanied by his family, friends and the rabbi, the groom places the veil on the bride to prepare her for the ceremony under the Chuppah. This custom is quite significant because it is regarded by many to symbolize modesty.
The Chuppah
The ceremony is finally set to begin. The best man proceeds down the aisle to the left side of the Chuppah, followed by the groom and his parents. The bridesmaids and then the maid of honour are next, but they are situated on the right side of the Chuppah instead. They are followed by the flower girl and the ring bearer if there are any. Lastly, the bride is escorted down the aisle by her parents. As you may have noticed, during the proceedings, the bride and groom never travel alone. This is their day, therefore, appropriately so, they are treated like royalty and are always accompanied by family or friends.
At this point, the rabbi reads the Ketubah in its original Aramaic language and the couple each drinks wine.
The Ring, and remember you only need one…
In the traditional Jewish ceremony, only one ring is needed. The groom gives one to his bride, but there is no need for one in return. It should also be very minimal and basic, simply made of solid gold without any additional decorations such as diamonds or gemstones. It is meant to symbolize the unity and devotion they are making for each other, therefore, fancy adornment is not necessary.
Mazel Tov!
The final phase of the traditional ceremony concludes with the stepping and breaking of the glass by the groom. The reason for this tradition is somewhat of a mystery. There are various explanations for it, but there isn’t a single one that is universally accepted. Among one of the most agreed upon reasons is the glass represents the Jewish community’s sadness for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. After the glass is broken, all the guests shout “Mazel Tov!” and clap and sing as the ceremony concludes.
The Yichud
After the ceremony is completed, the bride and the groom are escorted to a private room where they finally get a chance to briefly relax and, more importantly, be alone together for the very first time as a married couple. This brief break is called the Yichud, and of course, the very first thing a bride and groom do together during this period is…eat! They have a quick snack, which could consist of their favourite food, before they head back out to join their guests.
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