Jewish Wedding Ceremony
Jewish wedding ceremony also called kiddushin is indication of sanctification and total dedication of bride and groom to each other. Jewish wedding ceremony includes different events that are as follows
Shidduch or matchmaking:
This is initial stage of wedding in which a close friend or relative of young man or woman suggests to meet someone which they think can be his or her compatible partner. In this meeting, they decide that whether they are indeed compatible for each other. They also should be physically compatible to each other. However according to physical contact between a man and a woman is not allowed until marriage. Choice of partner will be based on emotions and intellect and not only on physical desire.
Vort or engagement:
When a man and a woman decide to marry, their family met together and announce the occasion with small reception. A contract also called tenaim (conditions) is signed by some families which states the obligations of each side towards wedding and date of wedding. Others sign it one hour before reception. The bride and groom stop seeing each other from one week before their marriage. It will enhance their joy of wedding.
Ketuvah or marriage contract:
Ketuvah or a marriage contract is signed by groom and witnessed by two. This marriage contract is ordained by Mishnaic law. It contains husband's obligations to his wife. Ketuvah is accompanied by some light snacks and liquor.
Bedekin or veiling:
After signing ketuvah, groom does the bedekin or veiling. Groom with his father and father in law enter in room where bride is sitting on a throne like chair. Groom cover the face of bride with veil to whom he has not seen from a week.
Chuppah or canopy:
Chuppah or canopy is a symbolic home of newly married couple. Groom prays that his unmarried friends find their true partner. When bride with her parent arrives at chuppah, songs are sung. She circles groom seven times with her mother and mother in law while groom prays. Then groom and bride drink wine which is symbol of life and blessings recited over wine.
Kiddushin or ring ceremony:
Now, groom places a gold ring on the fingers of bride. Ketuvah or marriage contact is read loudly and handed over to bride.
Sheva Brachos or seven blessings:
Sheva Brachos or seven blessings are recited by one Rabbi or family member. It also recited over a full cup of wine. Here, couple drinks another glass of wine. This time, groom breaks glass of wine by stamping which symbolizes idea of keeping Israel and Jerusalem in our mind.
Cheder Yichud or room of privacy:
Guests are dancing with couple to Cheder Yichud (room of privacy). Now they are alone in room eating after fasted all day. Guests also eat a festive meal. After meal, seven blessings are recited over wine and then shared by couple.