Breaking the Glass

A glass is now placed on the floor, and the groom shatters it with his foot. This serves as an expression of sadness at the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and identifies the couple with the spiritual and national destiny of the Jewish people. A Jew, even at the moment of greatest rejoicing, is mindful of the Psalmist's injunction to "set Jerusalem above my highest joy.” In jest, some explain that this is the last time the groom gets to "put his foot down.” This marks the conclusion of the ceremony. With shouts of "Mazel Tov," the groom and bride are then given an enthusiastic reception from the guests as they leave the chuppah together. This traditional ceremony signifies the emotional attachment of Jewish people to Jerusalem through generations and remind them that they still don't have "The Temple" in holy city.