What is a Ketubah?
What is a ketubah?
A ketubah is a special Jewish marriage contract that outlines the responsibilities of the husband to his wife.
How long has the ketubah been used?
The ketubah has been an important part of Jewish weddings for about 2000 years.
What date information is included?
The day of the week, day of the month, year, city, and country.
How do couples display their ketubah?
Many couples display their ketubah in their homes as beautiful but casual decoration.
What does the ketubah show about marriage?
It shows that marriage is a serious legal agreement.
What language is it written in?
It is written in Aramaic
What was the purpose of the ketubah?
The purpose was to protect the bride financially if the marriage ended.
Who's names are listed?
The groom's and bride's Hebrew names, their father's names, and sometimes the mothers' names.
What do modern couples include?
Some create new versions that express equal responsibilities for both partners.
How does it protect rights?
It protects the bride financially if there's a divorce, and establishes both parties marital obligations
Why is the ketubah displayed?
It is beautifully decorated and displayed as a reminder of the couple's commitment to each other.
Who helped create the ketubah?
Rabbi Simeon ben Shetach.
What are the promises made?
To work for, honor, provide for, and support each other.
Why is the ketubah still important today?
It serves as a reminder of their promises and commitments to each other.
What responsibilities does it outline?
What does the ketubah outline?
It outlines the responsibilities of the husband to his wife and serves as an official document.
How does it protect women?
It ensures women have rights and security in marriage.
What is the mohar?
The mohar is money set aside for the bride if the marriage ends.
How has the ketubah evolved?
It has evolved over time while maintaining its role in protecting and honoring both partners.
How does it connect to tradition?
The format of the ketubah is ancient and (mostly) unchanged!
Who created the ketubah?
Rabbi Simeon ben Shetach helped create the ketubah.
Why was it unusual for its time?
Because women often had few legal protections in ancient times.
What is the nedunya?
The Nedunya refers to dowry items from the bride's family.
What does it remind couples of?
It reminds couples of their promises and commitments to each other.
What kind of bond is marriage in Judaism?
Marriage is both a spiritual bond and a practical partnership with responsibilities, so you are responsible for the material well being of your spouse and their religious life.