Kiddushin (Blessings of Betrothal) and Sheva Brachot (The Seven Blessings)

Two cups of wine are used in the wedding ceremony. The first cup accompanies the betrothal blessings, recited by the rabbi. After these are recited, the couple drinks from the cup. Wine, a symbol of joy in Jewish tradition, is associated with Kiddush, the sanctification prayer recited on Shabbat and festivals. Marriage, called Kiddushin, is the sanctification of a man and woman to each other.

The Seven Blessings are recited over the second cup of wine. The theme of these blessings links the groom and bride to our faith in God as Creator of the world, Bestower of joy and love, and the ultimate Redeemer of our people. These blessings are recited by the rabbi or other people that the families wish to honor. At the conclusion of the seven blessings, the groom and bride again drink some of the wine.