Ceremony

Nissuin (Nuptials)

Jewish Wedding: Nissuin

Jewish Wedding: Nissuin

The second section of the wedding ceremony begins the Sheva Brachot, or seven benedictions, which are recited over a cup of wine.  The blessings thank God for the fruit of the vine, the creation of the world, the creation of human beings, the perpetuation of life, the survival of the Jewish people, the joy of marriage, and the bride and groom’s happiness.

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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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After the Ceremony: Yichud and Seudat Mitzvah

Yichud

Jewish Wedding: Yichud

Jewish Wedding: Yichud

Following the ceremony, the newly weds customarily spend a few minutes in a private room for yichud, which means “togetherness.”  There, they will quietly share the excitement of their first moments together as husband and wife.  Since the wedding day is often a whirlwind, these private moments of yichud often are the only private moments the bride and groom will share for the entire day.  This time is really special, and they then emerge from yichud as a couple to greet their guests.

Seudat Mitzvah (The Wedding Feast)

According to Jewish law, the wedding guests are commanded to celebrate, to have fun, and to increase the joy of the bride and groom on their wedding day. So, dancing, singing, and rejoicing throughout the night is very much encouraged!

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