Often times we forget that within the borders of our country are many different cultures and religions-especially when it comes to a wedding. Among the most beautiful and tradition-steeped is the Jewish wedding. The history and symbolism behind a Jewish wedding ceremony is rich and meaningful. Even if you aren't Jewish, it is still interesting to read and understand the meaning behind what takes place for a young Jewish couple to become husband and wife.
Prior to the wedding an engagement contract called a Ketubah is signed by two witnesses. The contract outlines the husband's responsibilities to the wife; financially, physically and emotionally. It even goes so far as to outline what provision he will make in the event of his death. The Ketubah is taken very seriously by the Jewish community and once signed cannot be broken. It's also interesting to note that the Ketubah is written and designed in to almost be a work of art which is often framed and hung in the home of the couple.
Kabbalat Panim is the term used for keeping the bride and groom apart the day of their wedding (and sometimes even up to a week prior to the day). Protestant weddings also observe this tradition and that of the Shomer (best man) and Shomeret (maid of honor) keeping the bride and groom calm, comfortable and as stress-free as possible in the hours leading up to the actual ceremony.
The Jewish bride and groom have individual pre-ceremonies. These ceremonies are called Kabbalat Panim. The groom's is called a Tisch. These ceremonies are attended by men and women respectfully and the couple is treated like royalty in every way possible. The next event to take place is the Bedecken. This ceremonial act requires the groom to be escorted from his Tisch with music and dancing to where the bride is waiting for him. When he arrives he places the veil over her face. This is to allow the groom to view his bride just prior to the marriage to insure he is marrying the woman he desires to. This stems from the deception Jacob was subjected to when he unknowingly married Leah instead of her sister, Rachel-the woman that he truly loved (Genesis 29:23).
After the veil is in place, the groom enters the room in which the ceremony will take place and takes his place under the Chuppah-a canopy to represent the new home the couple will make together. The bride is then escorted into the room and takes her place beside her husband to be. Some Jewish communities require the bride to circle the groom seven times; symbolic of many Biblical teachings.
The first part of the ceremony begins with a cup of wine. This is called the Kiddushin. It is the rabbi's blessing of the marriage and is followed by the exchanging of wedding rings. Next comes the reading of the Katubah by the groom, who then hands it to his bride. The couple are now officially husband and wife. But the ceremony continues with a second cup of wine and the Nissuin, or reading of the seven blessings. This is followed by the familiar breaking of a glass by the groom in front of the rabbi and guests with a shout of 'Mazel Tov'.
The first thing the newly married couple does is Yihud. This is when the newlyweds are allowed some time in seclusion together before the celebration begins. What most call the wedding reception is called aSimchat Chatan V'Kallah in the Jewish community. It can be a sit-down meal or something resembling a cultural festival. Lots of music and dancing will be present, you can be sure-including the Horah circle dance.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Jewish-Wedding-Traditions
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