HOW JEWS GET MARRIED.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 18, Issue 42, 24 May 1907, Page 7

HOW JEWS GET MARRIED.

The eagerness with which invitations to be present at a Jewish wedding ceremony are accepted by Gentiles is abundant evidence that the unique ceremonial is at once distinct and dissimilar from all other modes prevailing. On the eventful day the visitor (having previously been fortified with the injunction that on no account may the headgear be removed) 4s conducted to a seat in the synagogue. As mixed worship at any time is not countenaced, ladies are provided with special places. A portable canopy of red silk, supported by beautiluily-poilished brass poles scintillating in the glow of miniature electric lights dotting the silken roof of the canopy, is erected in a position facing the Ark. The .officiating ministers, two in number, take their stand beneath the canopy, patiently awaiting the arrival of the principle actors of the day. A slight commotion is apparent as the bridegroom enters, while subdued whispers of “Here she comes” herald the approach of the bride. The couple confront the ministers, the lady having a position allotted to her on the right hand of the gentleman and not on the left, which is the correct attitude in every Church but the Jewish. The bridesmaids, best men, and immediate connections are arranged in due order close by. The wedding service is read in Hebrew, interspersed with English, and at certain intervals the bride and groom partake of wine from a silver drinking cup, tendered them by the minister. With the placing of the ring on the finger, a tray containing a small glass is brought forward and placed contiguous to the feet of the bridegroom. Every neck is crained forward to its utmost extent, and speculation is rampant as to whether the newlymarried husband will at the first attempt. and with one stamp of his foot, splinter the glass into a thousand pieces. The tension is relieved as a violent crash announces that the glass has been reduced into powderlike fragments. This quaint ceremonial is intended to illustrate that the dissolubility of the nuptial knot is as far removed from the realms of possibility as to unite the fragments scattered on the floor is from accomplishment. With some minor prayers the engrossing ceremony is brought to a conclusion, and the parties then proceed to sign the register in the usual manner.