Praising the bride to the groom is an important part of Jewish marriage ceremonies.
The tradition of praising the bride to the groom is a cherished and integral part of Jewish marriage ceremonies. It unfolds as a heartfelt expression of love and admiration from the groom's perspective. As the bride stands before him, radiant in her bridal attire, the groom is encouraged to share words of praise that celebrate her beauty, grace, capabilities, and overall wonderful qualities. This act serves not only as an affirmation of their love but also as a public declaration of his admiration for his future wife.
However, not every bride may fit the traditional standards of grace or beauty. Jewish sages were aware of this fact and offered a deep remedy: praise her anyway. This imeless wisdom encourages the groom to dig behind the surface and discover in his wife characteristics deserving of appreciation and celebration. It is a reminder that true beauty resides not only in physical appearances but also in character, kindness, strength, and resilience.
The act of praising the bride, even when she may seem lacking in certain qualities, carries deep and enduring significance for the marriage. It demonstrates the groom's commitment to seeing the best in his bride and his willingness to nurture and celebrate her uniqueness. This unconditional praise can have a transformative effect on the relationship, fostering an environment of acceptance and love.