Judaism has an abundance of traditions which affect almost every aspect of a Jewish family’s life. Many Jewish communities all over the world incorporate traditional practices into daily life to preserve their culture and faith and pass it on to future generations.

From an early age, children are taught how to eat, how to work, how to sleep and how to wear clothes in accordance with the Judaic laws. These traditions are especially prevalent during important life transitions, such as when two people get married.

If you’ve ever attended a traditional Jewish wedding, you may have noticed it was full of rituals most outsiders aren’t familiar with.

What Are Some of the Most Common Jewish Wedding Traditions?

Just like many other religions, Judaism is rich in symbolism. While there’s a lot of flexibility in terms of planning your wedding, it’s important to understand the special religious significance the customs and rituals you choose to follow have for newlyweds.

The Veiling of the Bride

The veiling of the bride, known as Bedeken, is done prior to the wedding ceremony. The significance of this ritual has its roots in the Bible, which tells a story of Jacob marrying the wrong woman because the bride’s face is hidden behind the veil. As a result, the groom must be present at the veiling of his bride. The Bedeken can be done as a private ceremony with close family members or as a public ceremony for all wedding guests to witness.

Exchanging Vows Under the Chuppah

The chuppah is a small structure with four posts and a roof for the couple to stand under during the exchange of vows.

The chuppah symbolizes the couple’s future home and the life they will build together. The structure is often adorned with a tallit—a fringed shawl worn during prayer.

Circling the Spouse

During the wedding ceremony the bride walks around the groom either three or seven times. This act of circling represents the beginning of a new family. Many people also believe the ritual creates a wall of protection from evil forces and the temptation to engage in infidelity. Traditionally, only the bride walks around her groom, but among more modern families both spouses can do the circling.

The Seven Blessings

The Seven Blessings, known as Sheva B’rachot, are given to the newlyweds by a rabbi or designated family and friends. Often, the blessings are recited in both English and Hebrew and revolve around joy, love and companionship.

After the blessings have been recited, the newlyweds share a glass of wine, which symbolizes happiness and prosperity.

The Breaking of Glass

The last step in the wedding ceremony is the breaking of glass. The newlyweds are given glass wrapped in cloth and are asked to stomp on it. This final ritual symbolizes the couple’s commitment to going through life together regardless of the circumstances. Once the glass shatters and the wedding crowd shouts Mazel tov, it’s time for the wedding reception to commence.

The Seclusion Room

Following the wedding ceremony and right before the reception, many newlywed couples partake in a custom called yichud. This wedding tradition calls for the newlyweds to spend at least eight minutes in seclusion to reflect on their marriage and rejoice in the promise they just made to each other. During yichud it’s common for the couple to share their first meal together as spouses.

The Wedding Feast

After the wedding ceremony is over and the couple emerges from the secluded room, it’s finally time to celebrate. A traditional Jewish wedding reception features dancing in a circle called the hora, indulging in kosher dishes, drinking, singing and having fun.

Host Your Traditional Jewish Wedding at CrystalView in Virginia

Planning your wedding is an intricate and time-consuming endeavor. At CrystalView, you can count on us to organize the wedding of your dreams.

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Contact us today to schedule a tour of your future wedding venue!