The Tena’im: Jewish Engagement

Before The Jewish Wedding

 

“Tena’im” is the actual Yiddish name for an engagement.In the culture, it carries a great deal of weight, and even more so than the American culture. It binds you in the realm of a legal Jewish status. There is a signing that takes place at what the Jewish people refer to as “the groom’s table”. The reading of the “Tena’im” is given either by a dear friend of the groom’s or a Rabbi.     Te’naim is a contract between the parents of the bride and groom. It reverts back to the third century C.E.; It is predominantly done through the orthodox custom.   Eirusin refers to the ring being given. In essence, the bride cannot wed anyone else.   Kiddushin means the ring is now accepted.   Nissuin refers to the couple sharing a home together.           It ends with a festive party with the bride, groom, and their parents, as they celebrate the wonders of this new chapter. More often than less, it is kept private with direct family.

Traditional Indian Wedding Jaimala Ceremony

The exchanging of garlands is a crucial part of an Indian wedding, and and the marriage is not considered complete until the garlands are exchanged between the bride and groom. The garlands are made out of flowers and thread, and while the flowers symbolize aspiration, excitement, and happiness, the thread represents what secures all those emotions. This part of the ceremony, called Jaimala, is the first ritual which represents the bride accepting the groom as her husband. This part of the ceremony happens after the groom arrives at the venue and is welcomed in by the bride’s family. He then awaits the arrival of his bride, and this is the first time they see each other! During this time, the bride and groom exchange their flower garlands by placing them around each other’s neck. There are many options when looking where to get garlands for your wedding- you can order them online or by phone, talk to your local florist, or make them at home with family and friends!

Photo credits: Indian Wedding Site, Indian Weddings, Maharani Weddings, The Big Fat Indian Wedding, Wedding Function, Maharani Weddings

The 7 Blessings of a Hindu Wedding

There are many important aspects of a Hindu wedding ceremony- one of the most important is the fire ceremony. During this fire ceremony, the highlight is the Saptapadi, when the bride and groom, hand in hand, step seven times around the fire. This part of the ceremony seals their bond as husband and wife forever.

You may wonder why there are seven steps taken around the fire, and what each step represents. Here is a simple breakdown:

1. May the couple always be blessed with an abundance of comforts and resources, and always be helpful to one another in all aspects.

2. May the couple be strong and complement each other, mentally, spiritually, and physically.

3. May the couple be blessed with prosperity and riches- in all ways.

4. May the couple have eternal love and trust together.

5. May the couple be blessed with a happy family life and children.

6. May the couple live in harmony together- staying true to their promises to themselves and one another.

7. May the couple always remain best friends.

(Image credits:  Maharani Weddings, 14 Gaam, Adult Awkwardness,Entouraaj, Shaadi with Style, Brian Kraft,Brian Kraft)