Betrothal / Jewish Marriage– Basics
What is the first stage of Jewish marriage called?
Kiddushin (betrothal)
What Hebrew word means “sanctification” or “dedication” in this context?
Kiddushin
After kiddushin, the couple can immediately live together.
False- though legally married, they do not live together until nissuin.
Jewish funeral typically happens within how many hours of death?
24 hours
How many days does shiva last?
Seven days.
What does the groom traditionally give the bride to begin kiddushin?
A ring
What document outlines the husband’s obligations and the wife’s protections?
The ketubah
A ring is one way to enact kiddushin.
True- giving something of value is the common way.
Are open caskets allowed in a Jewish funeral?
No they are not allowed.
During shiva, what do mourners sit on?
Low stools, cushions, or floors.
How many witnesses are required for kiddushin?
Two qualified, unrelated male witnesses
In modern weddings, are kiddushin and nissuin usually done together under one canopy?
Yes- in modern practice both stages are usually performed at the same time under the chuppah.
Arranged marriages were common in traditional Jewish practice.
True- families arranged the match (a shidduch) historically.
What is the name for the mourners?
Avelim
What do mourners often cover in their home during shiva?
Mirrors.
Does kiddushin legally bind the couple?
Yes- the couple is legally bound once kiddushin has occurred.
What is the traditional phrase the groom says when giving the ring?
“Behold, you are consecrated to me according to the law of Moses and Israel.”
The bride had full marital rights before nissuin.
False- though sanctified to the groom, they still did not live together until nissuin.
What is the ribbon-tearing ritual called?
Keriah.
What prayer is recited daily during shiva for the deceased?
Kaddish.
What is the second stage of Jewish marriage called, when the couple lives together?
Nissuin
In traditional times, where did the bride stay until nissuin?
She stays in her father’s house while preparations were made.
A Jewish betrothal can only be ended with a religious divorce.
True- because kiddushin legally binds the couple, ending it requires a get (Jewish divorce document).
Who carries the casket at the end of the service?
The pall bearers.
Do mourners stay at home during the shiva period?
Yes.