In the kiddushin or engagement phase, the would-be husband and wife confer a promise that they would get married in some time. While kiddushin leads to a change in their conjugal status, nissu'in or the actual wedding brings a legal change. In the yesteryears, there was a gap of about a year or so in between the two ceremonies. However, with time, things have speeded up and the two ceremonies started taking place, as a combined ceremony.
In the present day, at the time of kiddushin the groom places a ring on the bride's right index finger. The bride, on the other hand, just clenches her fist to show her acceptance. A verbal response by the bride is not mandatory. Once this is done, the ketubah is read publicly and witnesses (one from each side) are required for both, the signing of the ketubah and the ceremony. By accepting the ring, the woman also makes a vow, accepting the terms of the marriage contained in a ketubah.
Next in line, is the ceremony of nissuin, wherein, the couple is joined in matrimony, under the chuppah. Lastly, the highlight of the wedding i.e. drinking of wine by both the bride and groom and the breaking of glass by the groom takes place. To know more about the Jewish matrimonial customs & traditions, read through this section.
Jewish Pre Wedding Rituals
Wedding, in Judaism, is considered as union of two souls for oneness and is hence, marked by great fervor and enthusiasm. The commencement of wedding celebration does not only mean the practice of wedding rituals, but making merry in the pre-ceremonial events as well. In almost all religions, wedding rituals begin days before the actual wedding day or D-Day and Jewish wedding is no exception to this fact.
Jewish Wedding Rituals
For Jewish people, marriage is a fusion of two souls. They belief that God created the first man and woman (Adam and Eve) from one body and with the practice of marriage, they return to same oneness. A traditional Jewish wedding consists of significant rituals and beliefs. The wedding, not only indicates the beauty of the relationship of a couple, but also indicates their obligations to each other and to the Jewish society, as a whole.
Jewish Post Wedding Ritual
Partying and celebrating forms an important part in all weddings, and Jewish wedding is no exception. After following the rituals and ceremonies, it is time to let loose the hair and sway to the beats of music. Commonly, a Jewish wedding is followed by celebration and grand party. Once the religious practices are over, guests rejoice and make merry at the union of two individuals.
