ḥatuna

The term ḥuppah (also spelled chuppah) refers to the canopy used in a Jewish wedding ceremony. Under this canopy, the couple stands during the wedding rites. The ḥuppah can vary in form, from a simple prayer shawl supported by poles to an elaborate cloth or floral trellis.1

Historically, the ḥuppah symbolized the bridal chamber, but today it represents the home the newlyweds will establish. In common usage, the term ḥuppah can also refer to the wedding ceremony itself. The Jewish marriage rite, known as ḥatuna or qiddushin (meaning "sanctifications"), traditionally involves a double ceremony. In modern times, these are performed together, but they were once separated by a year. The first part is the betrothal (erusin), which includes reading the marriage contract (ketubah) and the giving of a ring with a declaration of consecration. This is followed by the marriage proper (nissu'in), which includes reciting seven marriage benedictions.12