The Jewish Wedding
Summer is a busy season for weddings. Rabbi Woznica shares thoughts on how one central aspect of a Jewish wedding ties us to Israel.
The Seventh Blessing and Israel
Yesterday (found here), I reflected on the question of rejoicing at this very difficult time for Israel and the Jewish people worldwide. Today, I’d like to focus on one aspect of the ceremony.
At a Jewish wedding ceremony, it is traditional to recite what are known as the sheva brachot (seven blessings). I especially look forward to chanting them and always encourage a collective, rousing, “amen” after each one.
I typically pause before the seventh blessing to read it aloud in English. Part of that blessing reads: “… O God, may there always be heard in the cities of Israel and the streets of Jerusalem: the sounds of joy and of happiness, the voice of the groom and the voice of the bride, the shouts of young people celebrating, and the songs of children at play. We praise You, our God, who causes the bride and groom to rejoice together.”
This last blessing reinforces the unique aspect of peoplehood among Jews. When Israel faces difficulties, we Jews outside of Israel “feel their pain.” It can – indeed should – be difficult to simply go about our daily lives knowing that Israel is suffering. At the same time, at the sacred moment of marriage, a time of great joy, this blessing reminds all who are present of our connection to Israel and to our fellow Jews, who, in some cosmic way, celebrate alongside us.
— Rabbi David Woznica