Mazal Tov!
You’re getting married — what now?
Mazal Tov! A wedding can be the most magical moment of your life and a Jewish wedding infuses your special day and your marriage with spirituality and tradition. Pinner Synagogue would be delighted to assist in whatever way possible.
Get in touch with us soon (see below), even though you may be planning far in advance as there are a few steps that need to be taken prior to a Jewish wedding, such as the United Synagogue marriage authorisation process and we would love to help.
What else happens before the wedding?
Marriage is not just about the wedding day itself. The months leading up to the ceremony and party are a wonderful opportunity to spend time learning about what a Jewish marriage means, and the sanctity of committing to one another and building a long-term relationship. Get in touch with Rabbi Kurzer (07593 034381) to arrange an initial chat about how you can make the most out of your special day or for any other questions you may have about a Jewish wedding.
Just before the wedding, often on the Shabbat morning before the wedding, the groom is traditionally called up to bless the Torah in the synagogue – this is known as an “aufruf”. If you would like to have an aufruf at Pinner Shul, please get in touch with Carolyn in the shul office on 020 8868 7204.
What happens on the day?
At the ceremony, the couple stand under a beautiful canopy called the chuppah, where a ring is given to signify the bond being created. Seven is a number you’ll hear a lot – it’s the number of times the bride circles the groom under the chuppah as well as the number of blessings recited, known as the Sheva Brachot, after which the bride and groom drink a little wine. The Rabbi will likely speak at the ceremony too.
At the end, the groom will break a glass by stamping on it, prompting cries of Mazal Tov from guests. This tradition reminds is of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, even at this most joyous time. Finally, the newlyweds spend a few minutes alone in a private room, symbolising the space they create together in marriage.
Rabbi Kurzer would be honoured to officiate at weddings at our synagogue, or at another kosher venue where you’re having your celebrations. Do get in touch.
Sheva Brachot
Even after the wedding, the celebrations aren’t yet over! During the following week, family and close friends can host dinners called Sheva Brachot, referring to the seven blessings that are recited each time following the Grace After Meals. They are the same blessings that were recited at the wedding itself (with a slightly different order) – if you’d like more information, feel free to contact Rabbi Kurzer (07593 034381).