☆ Weddings in our culture are joyous occasions that celebrate the union of two individuals bonded under the Word of YHWH to love and cherish each other for the duration of their physical lives.

Our Hebrew wedding customs have deep roots in tradition, abundant symbolism, and stand as a powerful reminder of the cultural heritage of YHWH's people. These time-honored practices, some dating back to the dawn of creation, unite families and communities in the joyful celebration of the set-apart covenant of marriage.

At a Hebrew wedding, one of the most iconic elements is the chuppah, a beautifully adorned canopy beneath which the couple stands during the ceremony to jointly recite the wedding Torah and exchange vows in the hearing of Elohim, family, and friends. The chuppah symbolizes the new home the couple will dwell together under the Authority of YHWH's Name and Word. 

Progression Towards Marriage: A Journey of Love and Commitment under the Guidance of YHWH's Word

1. Formal Introduction: The groom-to-be meets the parents of the bride-to-be and declares his interest.

2. Courtship and counseling: involve soon-to-be couples getting to know each other and participating in counseling sessions to gain a deep understanding of Scripture's perspective on marriage and the challenges and joys of married life.

3. Betrothal: or engagement, a formal agreement between families. It was legally binding, and breaking it required a divorce. Often, this was arranged by the parents.

4. Bridal Price (mohar): The groom paid a bridal price to the bride's family as compensation for the loss of their daughter's labor and potential heirs. This was a sign of commitment.

5. Ketubah: A marriage contract was drafted, detailing the husband's obligations towards his wife, which encompassed provisions for her support and protection. Similarly, the wife was expected to both submit to and bolster her husband's leadership.

6. Marriage Feast: The wedding typically included a festive meal and celebration, often lasting for several days. Wine was an essential part of the festivities. In Scripture, the marriage ceremony symbolizes the groom as representing the Messiah and the bride as symbolizing the Congregation. This symbolism portrays the Messiah (the groom) coming to take His set-apart bride (the Congregation) to His prepared new home.

7. Chuppah: The couple stood under a canopy (chuppah) during the marriage ceremony, symbolizing the new home they would live under the guidance of the Word of Elohim.

Wedding Custom

Marriage Covenant