Traditionally the
Jewish wedding starts with the signing of the marriage contract
or ketubbah. The ketubbah is a document that describes the
rights and obligations of the bride and groom. It is signed
by the groom and then given to the bride for safekeeping.
In modern weddings the bride also signs the contract. This
document is often framed and displayed in the newlyweds'
home.
After the signing of the contract the groom goes up to his
bride and gazes into her face. Having confirmed that she
is the woman he chosen to marry, he lowers her veil over
her face. This is a symbolic representation of the lesson
learned from the story of Jacob who was tricked into marrying
Leah instead of Rachel, his true love. Leah pretended to
be Rachel and covered her face with her veil so Jacob wouldn't
know the truth.
The wedding ceremony takes place under the huppah (wedding
canopy). The huppah is often made of velvet with embroidery
and fringes but sometimes a floral canopy is used.
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