What Are Jewish Wedding Rings?
Jewish weddings are steeped in tradition. How strictly a couple adheres to traditions depends on the rabbi conducting the wedding. Orthodox rabbis will perform Jewish weddings in strict accordance with Jewish law, while reformed rabbis tend to be more lenient, taking the bride and groom's wishes into consideration when planning the ceremony. Jewish wedding rings play an important role in both the symbolism and tradition of Jewish weddings.
Other People Are Reading
-
Appearance
-
Jewish weddings rings are usually made of solid uninterrupted gold, but can sometimes be silver or platinum. There must be no holes, spaces or gems in the ring, even for decorative purposes. The design of the ring represents the hope for an everlasting marriage and signifies an unbroken union. In ancient times, a Jewish groom would offer something of value, such as a gold coin, to a bride, which she would have to accept in order to consecrate the marriage. The gold coin has now evolved into the simple, solid gold ring.
Giving the Ring
-
During traditional Jewish wedding ceremonies, a groom will repeat a Hebrew vow given by the rabbi. Before placing the ring on his bride's finger, a groom will recite "Behold, thou art consecrated to me with this ring, according to the law of Moses and Israel." This statement may be made in English or Hebrew and means that both the husband and the wife are holy to each other. While only one ring is required under Jewish law, many couples exchange rings with each other. While a Reform or Conservative denominational rabbi may have no problem performing such a ceremony, Orthodox rabbis will often refuse to oversee a ceremony with two rings.
-
Wearing the Ring
-
During the ring ceremony, a groom will place the ring on his bride's right index finger. The right index finger is chosen because a woman will point with it while reading the Torah, making it the most visible to witnesses. However, after the ceremony, many women move the ring to the customary ring finger on their left hand. Grooms will also move the ring after the ceremony if rings are exchanged.
Buying a Ring
-
Visit local jewelry stores and find out whether they specialize in Jewish wedding rings. A store may have to order a ring, if you do not have a sizable Jewish population in your town, or you may shop for a ring online. You may choose to include an inscription on your ring. Jewish law dictates that the ring must be solid without spaces or gems; however, getting a Jewish proverb or scripture engraved in the ring is a popular choice for many couples.
-
References
- Photo Credit gold ring in hand image by Matt Self from Fotolia.com
