Jewish Wedding FAQ
Whether you’ve been to a dozen Jewish weddings or this is your first, we wanted to share a little about the traditions you’ll see throughout our wedding. Some may be familiar, some may be new, and some have been adapted to reflect who we are as a couple.
Our wedding is a celebration of our love, our families, and our Jewish heritage, and we’re excited to share these meaningful traditions with you.
What is a chuppah (hoo-pah)?
The chuppah is the wedding canopy under which the ceremony takes place. It represents the home that we are building together as a married couple.
A chuppah is traditionally open on all four sides, symbolizing that our home will always be open to family, friends, community, and guests. It is also a beautiful reminder that while we are creating a home of our own, we will always be surrounded and supported by the people we love.
What is a ketubah (keh-too-bah)?
The ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract. Historically, it outlined the obligations and protections within a marriage. Today, many couples use a ketubah to express their shared commitments, values, and promises to one another.
We will sign our ketubah before the ceremony in a smaller gathering with our family and witnesses. It will then be read during the wedding ceremony so that our loved ones can bear witness to the commitments we are making to each other.
What is a kippah (kee-pah), and do I need to wear one?
A kippah (also called a yarmulke) is a traditional Jewish head covering. You’ll often see guests wearing them at Jewish weddings, particularly during the ceremony.
Kippot will be available at the wedding for anyone who would like to wear one. There is no expectation that you do so.
What happens under the chuppah?
The Jewish wedding ceremony includes several traditions that you may recognize, including blessings over wine, the exchange of rings, the reading of the ketubah, the Seven Blessings, and the breaking of the glass.
You may also hear Hebrew throughout the ceremony. Don’t worry if you don’t understand everything being said. We’ll be surrounded by our favourite people, and your presence and participation in the celebration are what matter most.
Why do couples circle each other?
You may see one or both partners circle the other during a Jewish wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the bride circles the groom seven times, although many modern couples have adapted this ritual to reflect equality and mutual partnership.
For us, this tradition represents the idea that we are entering marriage as equal partners and creating a life together.
Why do you break a glass?
The breaking of the glass is probably the Jewish wedding tradition you’re most likely to recognize!
At the end of the ceremony, a glass is wrapped and placed beneath a foot before being shattered. There are several interpretations of this tradition. One of the most common is that even in a moment of great joy, we remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and the brokenness that still exists in the world. Others see the fragile glass as a reminder that marriage is something precious that must be cared for.
Once the glass breaks, you’ll hear everyone shout “Mazel tov!” That’s your cue that the ceremony is officially over and it’s time to celebrate!
What is the Hora (HOH-rah)?
Get ready to dance!
The Hora is a traditional Jewish circle dance that is often performed at Jewish weddings and celebrations. Guests join together in a circle, dance, sing, and celebrate the newly married couple.
At many weddings, the couple is lifted into the air on chairs during the Hora. If you’re feeling strong, you may be called upon to help!
You don’t need to know the steps. Just jump into the circle, hold hands, and have fun.