Weddings are a time for celebration, love, and tradition. There are many cultural and religious customs that are followed during a wedding ceremony. One of the most unique traditions that is seen at a Jewish wedding is the breaking of glass. It is a moment that is much awaited and is considered by many as the highlight of the wedding ceremony. In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into the origins, meanings, and significance of the breaking of glass tradition in Jewish weddings.
History and Significance
The breaking of the glass tradition is deeply rooted in Jewish culture and tradition. Many believe that this tradition represents the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE. The act of shattering the glass is a symbolic gesture that represents the fragility of life, the joy and sorrow that one can experience in a lifetime, and the importance of remembering one’s heritage and the history that led to the current situation.
Another interpretation of this tradition is that it represents the breaking down of barriers between people. By shattering the glass, the couple is reminding themselves and their guests to always be open to communication, respect and overcome any obstacles that come their way. This tradition also symbolizes the hope that the couple will have a strong, long-lasting, and eternal relationship.
When and How It Is Done
The breaking of the glass tradition is performed at the end of the Jewish wedding ceremony. Once the couple is pronounced married, the groom (or in some instances, the bride and groom) is invited to step on a glass that is kept inside a cloth bag or wrapped in a napkin.
At many weddings, the groomsmen may place the glass on the floor so that it can be shattered with ease. The groom then steps on the glass and shatters it with his foot. The traditional shout of ‘Mazel Tov’ is then heard, with many of the guests clapping and cheering.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
The breaking of the glass tradition is significant in many ways. It is a moment of great joy and importance, with the couple and their guests enjoying the moment and celebrating the union of the couple. It is also symbolic of the happy and sad moments one can face in life, especially in a marriage.
The fragility and delicacy of life are also represented by the shattering of the glass. It serves as a reminder that life is precious, and one should never take life or love for granted. The breaking of the glass also signifies the bold step taken by the couple to unite in an unbreakable bond of love and commitment.
Conclusion
The breaking of the glass tradition is one of the many unique and beautiful customs of Jewish weddings. It is an emotional and significant moment that represents the fragility of life, the joy and sorrow it brings and the commitment the couple shares in overcoming any obstacles. The act of shattering the glass at the end of the ceremony has become a popular way of concluding the wedding celebration, with cheers of ‘Mazel Tov’ filling the air. Despite the different interpretations and meanings of this tradition, the breaking of the glass remains an important and timeless ritual that is embraced by many couples to this day.
FAQ
What happens if the glass doesn t break at a Jewish wedding?
In Jewish weddings, breaking a glass is a customary ritual and is considered a crucial part of the wedding ceremony. It is significant not only because of its cultural and religious traditions but also because it symbolizes the fragility of human relationships and serves as a reminder to cherish one’s partner.
Breaking the glass is usually done by the groom, who steps on it with his foot, shattering the glass into small pieces, followed by a shout of “Mazel Tov!” by the guests. It is believed that the sound of the breaking glass exorcises evil spirits and represents the first destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which was sacked by the Romans in the first century.
Therefore, if for any reason, the glass doesn’t break during the wedding ceremony, it is often seen as an ominous sign. It is considered an unfinished ceremony, and the couple is not considered fully married until the glass is broken. It has been known to cause distress among couples, their families, and especially the guests.
In such instances, there are several options the couple can consider. One is to repeat the ceremony with a new glass, which is usually provided by the rabbi or the wedding planner. Another option is to use a pre-broken glass or a glass wrapped in a cloth or napkin to ensure that it will break, even if the groom does not apply enough pressure.
Breaking the glass has been an integral part of Jewish wedding ceremonies for centuries, it carries a profound meaning that respects the religious and cultural traditions of the Jewish faith. The absence of the breaking glass ritual does not make the wedding ceremony invalid, but it can leave a sense of incompleteness and pave the way for unwanted omens.
What do Jews say when they break the glass at a wedding?
In Jewish wedding ceremonies, breaking a glass at the end of the ceremony is a long-standing tradition. The glass-breaking tradition can be explained in different ways depending on who you ask. Some say that the breaking of the glass reminds people to be mindful of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which serves as a reminder of the continual work needed to bring about a world that is whole and just.
For centuries breaking the glass also symbolized the consummation of marriage, with the breaking of the hymen representing the breaking of virginity. With the changing times, this interpretation of the tradition has evolved.
However, breaking the glass may be traced back to the kabbalistic idea that the broken vessel, which could not hold God’s light, represents people’s imperfections and flaws. Marriage is supposed to be a process of self-improvement and working through those imperfections, which leads to a better relationship.
So, what do people say when the groom shatters the glass under his foot? The most common words shouted by the crowd are “Mazel tov!” which means congratulations in Yiddish. The crashing of the glass signals that the mythic time underneath the huppah, or wedding canopy, is brought to an end, and everyone is invited to celebrate.
In Jewish weddings, the breaking of the glass is not just a symbolic act. It is a significant gesture that is imbued with meaning. It shows the willingness of the couple to acknowledge the challenges that may arise in their relationship as they begin their journey together. But ultimately, the breaking of the glass is a reminder to all the guests that the celebration is just beginning, and it is time to rejoice.
Is breaking the glass Jewish wedding before or after kiss?
In Jewish weddings, the breaking of the glass is considered one of the most iconic and symbolic traditions that concludes the wedding ceremony. When we talk about breaking the glass in a Jewish wedding, the first question that comes to mind is whether it is done before or after the kiss. Well, according to Jewish wedding customs, the groom breaks the glass at the very end of the wedding ceremony, right before the kiss.
The act of breaking the glass holds a great significance in Jewish culture. Many different interpretations and beliefs exist around this tradition, and each holds a deep spiritual meaning. One interpretation relates to remembering the destruction of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, which happened many centuries ago. Breaking the glass signifies the sadness and grief felt by Jews for the loss of their sacred Temple. It also symbolizes the hope for Jerusalem’s eventual rebuilding.
On the other hand, some Jewish scholars believe that the breaking of the glass is a symbolic representation of the fragility and vulnerability of human relationships. It is often stated as “Just as the broken glass can never be fully repaired, so too may a relationship be challenged by the mistakes and imperfections of humans.”
Now, let’s get back to the original query – Is breaking the glass Jewish wedding before or after the kiss? The answer is that in reformed Jewish weddings, the bride and groom will kiss after the groom stomps on the glass. Traditionally the groom smashes a glass wrapped in a white cloth or a bag to prevent harm to anyone standing nearby. The breaking of the glass signals the end of the wedding ceremony and the beginning of the celebration.
Breaking the glass is one of the essential traditions in Jewish weddings that holds significant spiritual and cultural meanings. Whether it’s done before or after the kiss, this act symbolizes love, hope, and commitment in the Jewish community, and it continues to be a cherished tradition that reflects the beauty and depth of Jewish culture and tradition.