Looking for Jewish wedding traditions? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Jewish weddings – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and more.
Weddings are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a memorable gift experience or a thoughtful gift.
To help you explore Jewish traditions, this article is organized into:
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Jewish Wedding Traditions and Rituals
Jewish weddings are steeped in tradition and symbolism, connecting modern couples with the rich history of the Jewish religion and culture. Here are some of the most common Jewish wedding traditions and rituals that you might encounter at a Jewish wedding:
Bedeken
This is a private ceremony that takes place before the wedding, where the groom places the veil over the bride’s face. This tradition is based on the story of Jacob, who was tricked into marrying the wrong sister. By performing the bedeken, the groom ensures that he is marrying the right person.
Ketubah
The ketubah is a written agreement that outlines the couple’s responsibilities to each other. It is signed by two witnesses and is often displayed in the couple’s home as a reminder of their commitment to each other.
Chuppah
The chuppah is a canopy that is used during the wedding ceremony. It represents the couple’s new home together and is often decorated with flowers and other meaningful symbols.
Circling
During the wedding ceremony, the bride circles the groom seven times. This tradition is based on the idea that the bride is creating a protective barrier around her husband.
Breaking the Glass
At the end of the wedding ceremony, the groom breaks a glass with his foot. This tradition is a reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and serves as a reminder to be mindful of unhappiness even during moments of great joy.
Wedding Wishes for a Jewish Wedding
When attending a Jewish wedding, it is customary to offer the couple well wishes and blessings for their future together. Here are some traditional Jewish wedding wishes that you can use:
- Mazel tov! (This is the most common Jewish wedding wish, and it means “good luck” or “congratulations”.) Pronunciation: Mah-zahl tohv!
- Mazal tov ve’simchot rabbim! (Congratulations and much joy!) Pronunciation: Mah-zahl tohv veh-seem-khote rah-beem!
- Brakhot rabbot u’mazal tov! (Many blessings and congratulations!) Pronunciation: Bra-khoht rah-boht oo-mah-zahl tohv!
Still haven’t found the perfect wish? Here is our full article on Jewish Wedding Wishes.
Jewish Wedding Gifting Etiquette
When attending a Jewish wedding, it is customary to bring a gift for the couple. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when it comes to Jewish wedding gifting etiquette:
Do’s in Gifting
- Give a monetary gift, typically in the form of a check or cash, within your means but considered generous. This allows the couple to purchase what they desire.
- Consider gifts from the couple’s registry if available.
- It is impolite to arrive empty-handed, so consider bringing a small gift like a bottle of wine if unable to give money.
- Be respectful of Jewish customs and traditions in giving wedding gifts.
- Be creative with gift choices, considering practical Judaica items that the couple may need around the house.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Do not give gifts that are not appropriate for the couple’s values or beliefs, such as a non-kosher food item for an observant Jewish couple.
- Do not give gifts that are not appropriate for the occasion, such as a gift that is not related to Shabbat or the Jewish home.
- Don’t join the fray. Avoid giving gifts that are too common or generic, such as multiple challah boards, challah covers, menorahs, seder plates, and the like.
- Do not give gifts that are not meaningful or significant to the day, such as a generic gift card or non-personalized item.
- Do not give gifts that are not in good taste or that may cause offense, such as a provocative or insensitive item.
Conclusion
Celebrating Jewish weddings goes beyond vows and rings. It’s a time to honor love, cherish family, and embrace timeless traditions.
Weddings are imbued with cultural richness and meaningful rituals. Enhance the festivities with an unforgettable gift experience or a thoughtful gift. So, here’s to a traditional way of celebrating weddings!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.