How to Break the Glass at a Jewish Wedding

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Jewish wedding ceremonies traditionally include the smashing of a glass by the groom with his foot. There are different explanations for this tradition. One explanation is that the breaking of the glass reminds Jews of the destruction of the second temple in Jerusalem. Another explanation is that Jews need to remember the pain and suffering that goes on the world even in their happiest moments. Some see this is a symbol of hope that the marriage will last as long as this glass is broken--permanently. Here's how to break the glass at a Jewish wedding.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

A very fragile glass or light bulb
A decorative, sturdy towel

Step1

Purchase an glass that is easy to break. Some couples choose to use a light bulb.

Step2

Wrap the glass or light bulb in a decorative, sturdy towel. Make sure the towel is strong enough to protect the groom and those around him from shards of glass.

Step3

Place the wrapped glass at the ceremony location before the wedding so that it can be accessed easily by someone in the wedding party.

Step4

Ask someone in the wedding party or the officiant to place the wrapped glass at the groom's feet. In Israeli ceremonies, this takes place after the reading of the Ketubah (a Jewish marriage contract). Outside of Israel, the glass is usually broken at the end of the ceremony.

Step5

The groom smashes the glass with his shoe. A good hard smash is in order.

Step6

The guests in attendance yell, "Mazel Tov!" This translates roughly to a combination of "good luck" and "hooray."

Tips & Warnings

In some modern weddings, both the bride and groom choose to break the glass. In gay Jewish weddings, both members of the couple may choose to break the glass as well.
Some couples have the shards of glass placed into a transparent Mezuzah, which is an important symbol of a Jewish household that is hung outside of a door. Ask your local Judaica store if they offer this service.
If the woman breaks a glass, make sure the glass is fragile enough to break with her shoe!