In-Depth Study

The tna'im are the official agreements between the bride and groom, traditionally written up in a contract. Read the reasons, legal minutiae, and various customs surrounding the tna'im.

The rules and customs regarding who is eligible to escort the bride and groom to the chupah.

The Jewish marriage is a two-stage process. What is the legal and mystical significance of these two stages?

Laws and customs pertaining to the wedding band.

The halachic reason why Jews do not have Double Ring ceremonies beneath the chupah.

Who is qualified to serve as a witness at a Jewish wedding?

The Ketubah outlines the obligations of the husband towards his bride. What are these obligations?

Jewish customs, traditions, and perspective for second weddings.

Joy which isn’t shared with a “new face” (“panim chadashot”) lacks a certain excitement. It is therefore necessary to “freshen” the joy and happiness of the newlyweds...

Every one of the seven blessings of the Sheva Brachot has a deep meaning, an important message for the bride and groom.

The various reasons why polygamy is not practiced today, as well as the historical background of polygamy in Jewish tradition.

Why make room for trouble? If the ideal union of man and woman is an exclusive one, why should a "nation of priests and a holy people" compromise?

A Kohen's heightened level of holiness, as well as his leadership role, places limits on the women he may marry.

A clear list of the individuals a Jewish man or woman may and may not marry.

Some interesting explanations on the Sheva Brachot (Seven Benedictions) recited beneath the chupah and after the Grace after Meal, during the wedding and during the week that follows.