Breaking of the Glass

Jewish Wedding: Breaking of the glass

Jewish Wedding: Breaking of the glass

At the conclusion of the ceremony, it is customary for the groom to break a glass. The breaking of the glass has several meanings. Some consider it a reminder of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in the first century, for even at the height of personal joy, we must not forget the tragedies that our people have endured. Others explain that the fragile glass reminds us of the delicate nature of marriage, which must always be cared for and cherished. At the sound of the breaking of the glass, guests traditionally clap and chant “Siman Tov” and “Mazal Tov,” Hebrew phrases which offer congratulations and good luck to the couple.

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