Dear Jew in the City, Why does a Jewish couple get married under a chuppah? Sincerely, Ben   Dear Ben, Thanks for your question. For the answer, let us turn to the Talmudic tractate of Kiddushin, which deals with the subject of marriage. The very first Mishnah tells us that marriage is effected through […]

Even though it’s the Omer right now, and weddings and other celebrations are forbidden because we are in mourning, wedding season will soon be upon us. Jewish weddings are unique; they come with their own customs and traditions. You may have seen people dancing the Hora and lifting the bride and groom onto chairs at […]

“Do you love me?” Thus sings Tevye to his wife of 25 years in the classic movie “Fiddler on the Roof.” Her response? “For twenty-five years I’ve washed your clothes, cooked your meals, cleaned your house, given you children, milked your cow…” This does not sound like romance at its best. Orthodox Jews tend not […]