While individual elements and traditions vary both by religion and within a religion, all religious ceremony traditions are time-honored and serve to celebrate the couples families, communities, and cultures. Elements often have historical meaning and significance and choosing to incorporate these traditions is both a nod to the past as well as an embrace of the future!
Here is a look at religious traditions in Jewish, Muslim and Protestant ceremonies.
Mademoiselle Fiona Wedding Photography
Jewish Wedding Traditions
Jewish wedding ceremonies are rich in tradition and meaning. And while most people have probably seen some of these customs in pop culture or movies, they might not always know what the significance behind them! While it can vary, there are more common aspects of a Jewish wedding ceremony. This includes a marriage contract or Ketubah, which is read aloud during the ceremony where a groom details his responsibilities to his new wife.
The ceremony also takes place under a canopy, called a chuppah, which symbolizes the home the couple will build together in their marriage. The design of the chuppah ranges to reflect the couple’s personal style, but as a focal point during the ceremony, it is artfully constructed with flowers, draping, natural or luxe elements. Finally, the famous breaking of the glass marks the end of the ceremony, which has many interpretations, but is often believed to mean that marriages are fragile and must be protected. Finally, guests shout Mazel Tov! (Congratulations) to celebrate the new union!
Gabe Aceves Photography
Muslim wedding traditions
Marriage in Islam is viewed as a religious obligation, and is seen as a contract between the couple and Allah, but they are joyous occasions for the couple and their families. Since marriage traditions differ based on Islamic sect, culture and observance of gender separation rules, the only actual requirement for Muslim weddings is the signing of a marriage contract.
The traditional ceremony, called a Nikah, is simple and requires just two witnesses. The ceremony involves scripture reading, filing of marriage documents, and reciting prayers. The contract includes a Mahr or Meher, or formal monetary gift or dowry from husband to wife, which legally becomes her property. The bride can use as she pleases and this represents her freedom within the marriage.
K. Robinson Photography
Protestant wedding traditions
Protestant (a division of Christianity) wedding traditions vary by denomination but The Episcopalian Book of Common Prayer provides the model for Protestant weddings. Each denomination, be it Baptist, Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist or Presbyterian, will have its own customary sermons, music, and other ceremonial elements. However what they have in common is that most ceremonies start with a wedding processional, where the groom and best man await the arrival of the bridal party and finally the bride, who is accompanied by her father to give her away. Attendees are then welcomed by the priest who begins his sermon.
Bible passages will be read, either by the officiant or by a friend or family member of the couple. This is followed by the reading of the vows and exchanging of rings. Most churches allow couples the choice of either traditional or personalized vows. The officiant will then pronounce the couple as man and wife that’s sealed by a kiss! Lastly comes the final blessing and recessional, where the wedding party exits the church to head to the reception.
Style Me Pretty Contributor – Julia Hurwitz is a freelance writer and Marketing Manager based in New York City. Her interests include travel, global craft, healthy baking, entertaining and exploring the outdoors.
Join The Conversation
favorite (0) share share (0) pin (0)
