What is the Chuppah?
The Chuppah is the Jewish marriage canopy. In a Jewish wedding, the couple stands under the Chuppah with the rabbi and their loved ones for the duration of the marriage ceremony.
Traditionally, the Chuppah was a simple piece of fabric or Tallit (prayer shawl) atop four poles, that would be held aloft by honored guests. Today, Chuppahs range from the traditional and simple to extravagantly decorated.
The only requirements for the Chuppah is that must be open, with four poles and a cloth “roof” – so this is an area where many Jewish couples express their creativity.
While many Rabbis prefer that the Chuppah be located outside, under an open sky, it is not a requirement. Most wedding venues have a Chuppah outside with a back up option indoors in case of rain.
What Is The Meaning Behind The Chuppah? What Does The Chuppah Symbolize?
In the simplest sense, the Chuppah represents the new home the couple will build together. The word Chuppah literally translates to protection or covering. Spiritually speaking, the “roof” of the Chuppah represents G-d’s presence over the marriage.
But if the Chuppah represents the home, then why isn’t it closed? In Biblical times, the patriarch Abraham’s tent was always open to visitors – therefore, the Chuppah is open and symbolizes hospitality to the couple’s guests and visitors to their future home.
Traditional Chuppah
A traditional Chuppah consists of four wooden poles, which can be held aloft by guests, with a simple piece of fabric serving as the “roof.” You can also swap out the fabric cloth for a Tallit (prayer shawl). Every wedding venue in Israel will have a traditional Chuppah option for guests who want to use it.
Modern Chuppah
Most couples today go for a modern Chuppah, which usually consists of a permanent structure like a gazebo. While it still has a cloth roof, oftentimes the Chuppah will be adorned with flowers or silk.
Another popular option for the Chuppah in Israeli weddings are LED lights hung in a waterfall style. The cost of decorating the Chuppah with flowers should be included in the decor and design package, but add-ons such as LED lights may cost extra.
The Israeli Wedding 