Even though we have modernized we still hold some sacred old traditions dear amongst the Jewish community. Jewish wedding traditions are one such old tradition that is still held to this day. Depending on the conservativeness of the Rabbi Jewish weddings can be conducted under firm Jewish law traditions, or if done by a reformed Rabbi a more modernize take on the Jewish wedding can be done. One thing that stays the same though is the Jewish wedding rings. They are the heart and soul of a Jewish wedding.
The Symbolism of Jewish Wedding Rings
The Jewish wedding rings are considered to be the most important part of a Jewish wedding. Originally gold coin or item of worth was given by the groom to his bride to complete the wedding ceremony in biblical times. This has now changed into the Jewish wedding ring that is based off the gold coin that was given in biblical times. The ring is to be made of solid uninterrupted gold. This is to signify the endless love and dedication to the marriage. If needed though silver or platinum can be used instead of gold. No embellishments, stones, or spaces should be put on the wedding bands though a sacred Hebrew phrase, or word inscribed onto the ring is often acceptable nowadays.
Another thing about the Jewish gold wedding rings is they are normally placed on the index finger on right hand. This tradition is based on the debate of which hand was closest to the heart. It also is the hand a woman would used when pointing while she read the Torah making the right hand more visible as well. Most though after the wedding switch their rings to their left hand ring finger. Normally in strict Jewish wedding traditions only the bride is given a ring. Today though in a more modern Jewish wedding the exchange of rings for both bride and groom can happen.
The Vows
The Jewish wedding rings are not the only important part of a Jewish wedding – the vow is very important as well. Before the groomsman can even put the ring on his bride he must recite the sacred vows the Rabbi speaks which is: "Behold, with this ring that I give you, you are now betrothed to me in accordance with the holy Laws of Moses and the Israeli people." The ring is then given , and the wedding has been consecrated.
