Zohar (I 91a).
Welcome! If you are visiting this site, you have decided to enter one of the most beautiful and sacred milestones in your lives. The Jewish marriage ceremony is infused with a myriad of customs, traditions, and spiritual components that heighten this already glorious experience. These numerous traditions and customs date back centuries and evoke the deep-rooted connection we have with our G-d and the people of Israel.
About
Rabbi Hazan Benlolo
My name is Rabbi Hazan Daniel Benlolo. I was born in Casablanca Morocco and moved to Montreal Quebec, the cradle of Sephardi Jewry. From a very young age Synagogue life played a major role in my upbringing, from choir boy to choir leader, this path ultimately led me to full-fledged clergy at the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue, a position I held for eight wonderful years. In 1991 I was honored to receive a full scholarship from the prestigious Maybaum Foundation, an affiliate of Yeshiva University in New York. For an intense two years I immersed myself into the world of cantorial music from Ashkenazic to Yemenite, from Spanish & Portuguese to Syrian styles and so much more. This invaluable training allowed me to represent the University in various cities in North America as their cantor in residence which allowed me to further develop and flourish in my chosen path.
After spending 25 years serving various communities my family and I returned to Montreal, to serve yet again the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue. I have a rabbinical ordination which allows me to be a registered officiate at wedding ceremonies as both Rabbi and Cantor (member of the clergy who leads the congregation in song) as well as minister.
Traditional Jewish Wedding
Kabbalat Panim (Reception)
In the Ashkenazi (Jews from central or eastern Europe) tradition Kabbalat Panim (pre-nuptial receptions enhanced with songs and heartfelt wishes) are hosted before the chupah ceremony separately by the bride and by the groom.
These receptions are followed by the ratification of the civil documents, and then ensue with the signing of the Ketubah, the Jewish marriage contract considered an integral part of a traditional Jewish marriage outlining the rights and responsibilities of the groom, in relation to the bride.
Today more than ever the Ketubah is decorated ornately to add beauty and meaning to what otherwise would be a rather dry legal document. We would be more than happy to offer our services as each Ketubah is a unique masterpiece, meticulously created and tailor-made to reflect your individuality and commitment. A timeless symbol of beauty and devotion.
Bedeken (Veiling of the Bride)
Leading up to the Chuppah ceremony another beautiful tradition is implemented, the ‘Bedeken’ (Veiling of the Bride).
The ‘Bedeken’ signals the pact that both souls are entering before the actual Chuppah ceremony. The entourage gather around the yet unveiled bride as parents on both sides, bless their children and give them indispensable advice after which the priestly blessing is bestowed upon the bride.
The groom then places the veil over the bride’s face while reciting the blessing given to Rebecca, our matriarch, by her mother. The sources and interpretation of the veiling are biblical and numerous, but they are synonymous with traits of dignity, sanctity and modesty, the veil also conveys a deeper psychological significance.
The big moment has finally arrived, as we all make our way to the Chuppah ceremony. The Chuppah represents a sacred place and is wittingly open on all four sides to create an inclusive environment to welcome all present to join in this joyous occasion and to symbolize the couple’s hospitality and openness to guests and family into their future home.
Chuppah ceremony – the processional
The ceremony begins as I walk down the aisle singing an emotional and powerful song chosen by the couple and myself during one of our meetings which officially opens the ceremony. With an array of professional and affordable musicians from within our city to choose from we can cater to all your musical needs.
The musical procession continues with a wide array of beautiful, handpicked songs ushering in the bridal party, the parents, the groom, and the bride.
Under the Chuppah accompanied by a melodic song, if the couple’s tradition dictates, the bride circles the groom 7 times, symbolically creating an emotional and spiritual fortress of integrity and love around their future home together. After which another song of welcome is presented to the couple. I often encourage the couple to light one candle each to recall the memory of all those who are no longer with us in the land of the living.
Kiddushin (Betrothal)
We then proceed to the betrothal (Kiddushin) blessings in which the first cup of wine is used to bless the bridegroom and bride to create a Jewish home dedicated to G-d and to the wellbeing of humanity. The betrothal blessings express the couple’s resolve to make a sacred commitment to one another. After the blessings are recited and with assistance from loved ones, the couple drink from the cup.
Ring Exchange
We proceed with the exchanging of the rings, a powerful symbol of the couple’s love and commitment to each other. The wedding band is an iconic part of a Jewish wedding. The groom places the ring on the right index finger of the bride while reciting a heartfelt declaration. Although there is no obligation for the bridegroom to receive a ring from his bride, as an officiant I strongly encourage her to do so after the chanting of the Ketubah accompanied with a heartfelt prayer.
Following the ring ceremony, we proceed with the chanting of the ketubah which is sung with a haunting melody dating back to the golden age of Spain. It is considered an integral part of a traditional Jewish marriage and outlines the rights and responsibilities of the groom. The ketubah is then offered to the bride for safekeeping.
A portion of the Sephardi (Moroccan) style chant of the Ketubah (wedding contract) under the Chuppah (wedding canopy).
Sheva Berachot (Seven Blessings)
The Sheva Berachot (the seven blessings) are the heart of the Jewish wedding ceremony symbolizing the deep and spiritual journey and their future together. In some traditions, the groom wraps his bride in a tallit (prayer shawl) before the recitation of the blessings, to recognize the intimacy and significance of the moment.
Some may invite seven friends or family members to each recite one of the blessings or have the traditional blessings sung in Hebrew while friends or family members offer seven translations of the blessings in English.
The bride and groom drink from the second cup of wine after which I take a moment to deliver heartfelt words of wisdom and insight and intertwine them with sentiments expressed by both the bride and groom have shared with me prior to their wedding.
Breaking of the Glass
The Jewish wedding ceremony concludes with a famous bang. Stomping on a glass is one of the best-known features of Jewish weddings representing both joy and remembrance. The fragility of glass suggests the frailty of human relationships and thus, a reminder to always include God in our relationship.
“As this glass shatters, so may our marriage never break.”
It is also a stark reminder that amid our joy one must recall the destruction of our temples and with it the promise of ushering in the final redemption. It is also the last time the bridegroom will put his foot down!
Im Eshkachech – If I forget Thee
(please press link)
Seudat Mitzvah (Wedding Feast)
Birkat Hamazon (Grace After Meals)
Jewish Destination Weddings:
As destination weddings in front of an epic backdrop continue to become increasingly popular, we are often called upon to officiate and create a unique and memorable experience for both the couples and their guests. We ensure that the ceremony seamlessly fits the chosen location.
A destination wedding allows the couple and our team to create a truly personalized ceremony. Here are some of the beautiful destinations we were blessed to conduct ceremonies; Jamaica, Cuba, Napa Valley CA., Bahamas, Cancun Mx., Saint Martin, Paris France, and Israel. We diligently work with our couples to help them get the most out of this special day. If you’d like to know more about working with us to plan a personalized wedding, locally or around the globe, please get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Jewish Weddings in Montreal
What services does the rabbi offer for weddings?
The rabbi offers a variety of wedding services including officiating the ceremony, pre-marital counseling, customizing vows, and providing guidance on Jewish traditions and rituals.
How much does it cost to hire a rabbi for a wedding?
The cost of hiring a rabbi for a wedding can vary depending on factors such as location, the extent of services required, and the rabbi’s experience. It’s best to contact the rabbi directly to discuss pricing.
Testimonials
Testimonials and Reviews of Rabbi Hazan Benlolo:
Holly and Jeremy Hayden
- ★★★★★
Working with Rabbi Benlolo was an absolute pleasure. His charismatic nature and overall friendly vibe made the process of getting married much less stressful and so much fun! He was always excited to speak with us, to get to know us as a couple, and to work with us to make sure our wedding day went according to plan.
Stevie et Karine Chemla
- ★★★★★
On Voulait Simplement vous remercier pour la magnifique cérémonie. Vous avez fait vivre, à nos invités et à nous-même, un moment unique, magique, et au-delà de nos attentes. Ce moment restera gravé dans nos mémoires.