Jewish wedding in Rhodes: A blend of Culture, Traditions and Aegean Beauty

Jewish weddings are steeped in centuries-old tradition and symbolism. Each element of the kosher ceremony is imbued with deep meaning and significance. The Tisch, Ketubah, Chuppah, Bedeken, Seven Blessings, and Breaking the Glass are all elements of the ceremony that make it a meaningful and beautiful way to celebrate love and commitment. This article discusses the rituals of a Jewish wedding and includes a wedding story in Rhodes.

Kallithea Springs is a stunning location for any type of event and is definitely one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Rhodes. A mosaic path made of black and white pebbles leads to a beautiful rotunda that offers a panoramic view of Kallithea Bay. The landscape is complemented by an elliptical portico with circular openings surrounded by rocks and the natural beauty of the Aegean Sea. The Italian architecture adds magic to the atmosphere and makes every wedding in Rhodes special.

The Tisch: A Pre-Wedding Ritual of Reflection and Celebration

The Tisch is a pre-wedding ritual in which the groom and his male relatives gather to study Torah. They sing songs to celebrate the upcoming marriage. This is a time for the groom to reflect on the commitment he is about to make and to seek the support and guidance of his male relatives. During the Tisch, the groom, Jeremy, received blessings from his father, and they enjoyed a meal together.

From Contract to Ceremony: The Ketubah’s Role in a Jewish Wedding

The Ketubah is a symbolic Jewish marriage contract that outlines the groom’s obligations to the bride. Jeremy, together with the rabbi and two male witnesses, signed the contract. In some weddings, the rabbi hands over the document to the bride for her agreement, as happened in this case. As a wedding photographer in Rhodes, it was great to capture these beautiful moments.

The Bedeken Ritual: Veiling the Bride

After signing the Ketubah, the groom meets the bride and the Bedeken ritual takes place. This tradition involves the groom veiling the bride.The purpose of it is to show that he loves her for who she is on the inside, and that they are still separate individuals despite being married. This tradition originates from the Bible, where Jacob was deceived into marrying the sister of the woman he loved because her face wash covered with a heavy veil.

The Symbolism of the Chuppah

The wedding ceremony took place under the Chuppah, a canopy decorated with flowers that symbolizes the couple’s new home. The Chuppah is always open on all sides to represent the hospitality and welcoming nature of the Jewish home. As wedding photographers, we focus on details and take pictures of the decorations to ensure we capture the essence of the event. During the ceremony, the couple stands beneath the gazebo, surrounded by their family and friends.

Sheva B’rachot and Breaking the Glass: Highlights of a Jewish Wedding Ceremony

During the wedding ceremony, seven blessings are recited over a cup of wine. This is called Sheva B’rachot and it offers praise and gratitude to God for creating the couple and bringing them together. The final blessing is sealed with the breaking of a glass, which symbolizes the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and the reminder that even in moments of joy, we must remember the pain and suffering in the world. Right after, everyone will shout “Mazel Tov!”, which means good luck.

After the wedding ceremony, the newlyweds spent some time in private room together. This tradition is called Yichud and represents the couple’s new status as husband and wife.

WEDDING TEAM

Filmmaker/Videographer – One Day Production