What Is the Structure of a Traditional Jewish Ceremony?
Generally, Jewish wedding ceremonies proceed in the order presented below, though some details vary depending on personal tradition and level of Jewish observance. Kabbalat Panim The bride and groom each welcome the wedding guests in different rooms. Traditionally, the two have not seen each other for the week preceding their wedding. The bride often sits in a throne-like chair to represent the idea that the bride and groom are a queen and king on their wedding day. In traditional ceremonies, the groom has a reception called a tisch, where he gives an informal speech as his guests sing and dance. Ketubah Signing At a more private gathering, the ketubah — the Jewish wedding contract — is signed. Orthodox Aramaic ketubot (plural of ketubah) are signed by two appointed witnesses, who are not family members, while more modern ketubot are usually signed by the bride, groom, witnesses, and rabbi. The Orthodox ketubah text talks about the groom’s financial responsibilities to the bride, as
