Maurice Lamm

The first meal after a wedding includes the seven blessings, symbolizing joy and remembrance of the Temple's destruction. Wine ceremonies celebrate their union.

The final step of the marriage ceremony involves the brid and groom spending private time together.

The glass breaking at Jewish weddings symbolizes joy tempered with sorrow, recalling the Temple's destruction while celebrating the couple's new life together.

The seven blessings under the chuppah are recited in the presence of a minyan, celebrating creation, marriage, joy, and community. They honor the couple and Jewish survival.

After the initial wine blessing, the rabbi recites the betrothal blessing, acknowledging the sanctity of marriage.

Traditionally, the bride circles the groom three or seven times under the chuppah, symbolizing protection, unity, and the establishment of their new family circle.

At the chuppah, all typically stand to honor the couple. The bride stands to the groom's right, and they tipically face east.

The wedding procession's order and decor vary based on custom. The groom arrives first, symbolizing his home, while family escorts provide support.

The veiling ceremony (bedeken), held only for a bride's first marriage, symbolizes modesty, dignity, and a new identity. The groom veils the bride, marking their union.

Before the wedding, two ceremonies occur: Kabbalat Panim, where the groom is honored at a table with guests, and Hakhnassat Kallah, which celebrates and honors the bride.