A canopy (chuppah) is used to cover the newlyweds during the outdoor wedding ceremony.
What distinguishes many Jewish wedding ceremonies is the choice to place the chuppah outdoors, under the open expanse of the sky. This decision carries layers of meaning and significance that extend far beyond the physical setting. Under the open heavens, the bride and groom stand beneath the chuppah, surrounded by the beauty and vastness of the natural world. The chuppah is typically a simple and flimsy structure, lacking walls, signifies the couple's intention to build a home together.
The chuppah also symbolizes the Jewish concept of "bayit ne'eman b'Yisrael," which means a "faithful house in Israel." This phrase underscores the idea that a Jewish home should be a place of trustworthiness and reliability, where Jewish values are lived and cherished. Under the chuppah, the couple makes a solemn vow to establish a home, one that serves as a source of inspiration and a safe haven for their family and community.
Additionally, the chuppah, with its open sides, represents the couple's connection to their families and their willingness to maintain strong ties to their roots. It is a recognition that they are not forming an isolated unit but rather becoming part of a larger community, where the love and support of family will always be an integral part of their lives.