Everything You Need to Know
From Meaning to Planning A Jewish Wedding
by Rivka C. Berman
Marriage is a holy institution in Judaism, a sacred bond between man and woman who commit
to a life together. A life they hope, of physical, emotional, and spiritual
fulfillment. Marriage is viewed as a positive divine command, for the Creator
desires to see His Creation endure.
Jewish law is based on the belief that man and woman marry for the purpose of
procreation, and indeed, the Torah impresses upon us the sanctity of marriage.
The matrimonial ceremony in Hebrew is referred to as "kiddushin," literally,
"sanctification."
Jewish weddings, regardless of the differences among Jews and Jewish
observances, have much in common. Regardless of religious affiliation (Orthodox,
Conservative, or
Reform) or of ethnic affiliation. Askhenazic
Jews (descended from Eastern European Jews), Sephardic Jews (descended from Idle
Eastern or Spanish Jews), Yemenite Jews, and Ethiopian Jews all perform the
marriage ceremony under the Chuppah (canopy), where the groom recites a ritual
formula of acquisition and consecration. (Reform Jews often have both bride and
groom recite the "consecration" blessing to each other.)
The wedding ceremony may be conducted in a synagogue, temple or other location
of the couple's choosing: many are in the same site as the reception. The
ceremony is usually performed by a Rabbi.
More
Information About Celebrating a Jewish Wedding
The Mazor Guide to Jewish Celebrations is proud to present to you
guidance from the perspectives of the three major streams of Judaism.
•
Orthodox Perspective: Jewish Wedding Traditions and Information
•
Conservative Perspective: Jewish Wedding Traditions and Information
•
Reform Perspective: Jewish Wedding Traditions and Information
• Sheva Brachot: The Seven Blessings under
the Chupah
• Jewish Wedding Glossary
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