One of the most recognizable aspects of a Jewish wedding is the breaking of the glass. This tradition has been a part of Jewish weddings for centuries, and is often accompanied by confusion from couples and guests alike. While most people understand that the breaking of the glass is a symbolic act, many are unsure whether it is performed before or after the kiss at the end of the ceremony. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of this tradition and when in the ceremony it typically takes place.
The Origins of the Breaking of the Glass
The origins of the breaking of the glass are unclear, but there are several theories as to where it came from. One theory is that the breaking of the glass symbolizes the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, which is one of the most significant events in Jewish history. Another theory is that the breaking of the glass symbolizes the fragility of marriage and the idea that it should be approached with care and caution.
Regardless of its origins, the breaking of the glass has become a beloved tradition in Jewish weddings around the world. It is often accompanied by cheers and applause from guests, and is a moment that many couples look forward to.
When Does the Breaking of the Glass Take Place?
The breaking of the glass typically takes place at the very end of the wedding ceremony. In a traditional Jewish wedding, the ceremony consists of several parts, including the signing of the ketubah (marriage contract), the badeken (veiling of the bride), the chuppah (wedding canopy), and the recitation of the seven blessings.
After the recitation of the seven blessings, the couple stands facing each other and the groom breaks the glass with his foot. This is immediately followed by the shouting of “Mazel tov!” from the guests, and the couple is then typically escorted out of the ceremony by their parents or close family members.
It’s important to note that the breaking of the glass is not accompanied by a kiss. While it’s often customary in non-Jewish weddings for the couple to kiss at the end of the ceremony, this is not a part of Jewish tradition.
Why Do People Think the Breaking of the Glass Happens After the Kiss?
There are a few reasons why people may be confused about when the breaking of the glass takes place. One reason is that in some Hollywood movies or TV shows that depict Jewish weddings, the breaking of the glass is shown happening after the kiss. It’s also possible that guests who are unfamiliar with Jewish wedding traditions may assume that the breaking of the glass happens after the kiss, simply because they’ve never seen it done before.
The Bottom Line
The breaking of the glass is an important and beloved tradition in Jewish weddings. While there may be some confusion about when in the ceremony it takes place, most Jewish couples will have the groom break the glass immediately after the recitation of the seven blessings. This is not accompanied by a kiss, which is not a part of Jewish tradition.
If you’re attending a Jewish wedding and are unfamiliar with Jewish wedding customs, it’s always a good idea to do a bit of research ahead of time so you can fully understand and appreciate the significance of the ceremony.
FAQ
Do you kiss before or after you break the glass?
In traditional Jewish weddings, there is a custom that involves the breaking of a glass towards the end of the ceremony. Many people wonder whether the couple should kiss before or after breaking the glass.
The answer to this question is that the couple should kiss after the groom breaks the glass. The breaking of the glass is a significant moment in the wedding ceremony. It is a reminder that even during the happiest moments of life, we should remember the sorrows that our ancestors endured.
After the glass is broken, the officiant declares the bride and groom to be wife and husband. He then invites the couple to seal their promises with a kiss. At this point, the groom kisses the bride, and then the couple can continue with the rest of the ceremony.
In Jewish tradition, there are different interpretations of why the groom breaks the glass. Some believe it represents the finality of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of a new chapter in the couple’s lives. Others see it as a symbol of the brokenness of the world and a reminder of the need to repair it.
Regardless of the interpretation, the breaking of the glass is a solemn and significant moment in a Jewish wedding. It is a reminder that even during the happiest moments of life, we must acknowledge the sorrow and brokenness that exist in the world. But the joy and love of the wedding ceremony can help to heal those broken places and bring hope for a brighter future.
What does stepping on the glass mean at a Jewish wedding?
The breaking of the glass is one of the most well-known and widely practiced traditions in a Jewish wedding ceremony. It typically takes place right after the couple has exchanged their vows, and involves the groom stepping on a glass, which then breaks into little pieces under his foot. While this ritual might seem simple, it holds a deep spiritual significance and is rife with symbolism.
There are several interpretations of the meaning behind the breaking of the glass. One of the most common explanations relates to the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which historically has been a central event in Jewish history. The shattering of the glass is a symbol of the destruction of the Temple, and serves as a reminder of the many hardships that the Jewish people have faced over the years. It also represents the importance of keeping faith in the face of adversity, and the idea that even during times of great sadness, it is still possible to find joy.
Another interpretation of the breaking of the glass relates to the complexities of marriage itself. The glass represents the fragility of the couple’s relationship, and is a reminder that marriage is not always easy. It acknowledges that there will likely be difficult times ahead, but that the couple is committed to standing by each other no matter what. This interpretation also draws attention to the idea that while marriage is often joyful and celebratory, it is also a serious commitment that requires hard work and dedication.
Finally, the breaking of the glass can also be seen as a call to action for those in attendance at the wedding. After the glass has been broken, it is traditional for everyone present to shout “Mazel Tov!” (meaning “good luck” or “congratulations”) and then move on to the reception. This serves as a reminder that while weddings are an important and meaningful occasion, they are also just the beginning of a much larger journey. The call to action here is to embrace the new couple as they start their life together, and to provide them with love and support as they navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
The breaking of the glass at a Jewish wedding is a rich and meaningful tradition that encapsulates many of the essential values of Jewish life and culture. While different individuals and communities may view this ritual in slightly different ways, there is no doubt that it represents a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, commitment, and celebration.
What do you say before breaking the glass Jewish wedding?
In a Jewish wedding ceremony, one of the most well-known traditions is the breaking of the glass. The breaking of the glass is the final act of the wedding ceremony, representing the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and reminding the couple of the fragility of relationships. The breaking of the glass ceremony usually takes place at the end of the Jewish wedding ceremony, just after the couple is officially married and has said their vows.
Before the groom smashes the glass with his right foot, it is the tradition for everyone present to shout “mazeltov!” in unison. In Hebrew, this means congratulations, and it is a way for everyone to wish the couple a lifetime of happiness. This act is meant to be joyous and celebratory, though it is also a reminder of the challenges and loss that can come with a marriage.
In addition to shouting “mazeltov,” some Jewish wedding traditions also call for the couple to either kiss or embrace immediately after the groom has broken the glass. This is a symbol of the love and commitment they are making to each other, and it also serves as a reminder that even as the glass shatters, their love and partnership remain strong.
The sound of the glass breaking is also a signal to the guests that it is time to party and celebrate the newlywed couple. It’s often followed by cheers, music, and dancing as everyone comes together to honor the happy couple.
The breaking of the glass ceremony is one of the most cherished and symbolic traditions in a Jewish wedding ceremony. It signifies the end of the ceremony and the beginning of a new chapter in the couple’s life together. So as the glass is shattered and “mazeltov” is shouted, everyone present is reminded to celebrate love, life, and the joy of new beginnings.