How to Use a Tallit in a Jewish Wedding

Tallitim can be found in a wide array of designs to suit your wedding style.

The Jewish prayer shawl, or tallit, can be used for purposes other than standard prayer services, such as a symbolic canopy during a wedding ceremony. The tallit is suspended above the bride and groom to symbolize a meaningful environment for the new couple to begin their life in. You can easily set up the canopy, or chupah, according to Jewish customs to utilize the power and beauty of the tallit in the manner that has been observed for generations.

Things You'll Need

• Chupah poles
• Chupah tallit

Instructions

1. Select four poles to create the corners of the chupah. The poles must long enough to extend higher than the head of the taller half of the couple to be married.

2. Position the bride and groom at the center of the chupah. Arrange four men around the couple to form a square. Have them spread out slightly to the couple's sides so that the men are not standing directly in front of or behind the couple.

3. Give a pole to each of the four men around the couple. Have them hold the poles vertically so they are upright and completely straight.

4. Spread out the tallit and raise it up over the poles. Place each of the corners of the tallit over one of the pole tops. Use the small pockets on each corner to secure the tallit onto the poles.

5. Spread out the men around the couple so the tallit is held taught and evenly over the couple's heads. The middle of the tallit can dip in slightly, but the fabric shouldn't touch anyone.

Tips & Warnings

• Insert the bottom of the poles into buckets of rocks if you don't want to have the chupah supported by people.

• Different customs eliminate the poles and just wrap the tallit around the couple to create a sense of unity during the chupah. Check with your rabbi before proceeding with any particular custom.

• Do not use a tallit that is torn or has strings missing, as it is not kosher.

References

• Religion Facts: Tallit Jewish Prayer Shawl
• Masorti: Succot
• My Jewish Learning: The Huppah, or Wedding Canopy
• Do It Yourself Weddings: DIY Wedding Huppah Cover Ideas
• Delphi Research Group: Chuppahs