25 Nov 2014
Posted by Aliyah 
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YICHUD
Yichud refers to the seclusion of the bride and groom after their wedding. Immediately after the glass is smashed under the chuppah, the couple leave together and go into a private room to share a few minutes with each other. This is the first opportunity they will have had to be entirely alone together, which is a very special moment for the two.
The practice of yichud is not just a beautiful way for the bride and groom to bond with each other during their wedding, it is an essential component of the marriage rite. A Jewish wedding is not considered valid without it, thus yichud must be witnessed. Two guards are appointed to check that the room the couple uses is empty upon their arrival, and to stand outside the door and ensure that they are not disturbed.
The practice of yichud is not just a beautiful way for the bride and groom to bond with each other during their wedding
In ancient times, consummation was the last step of the marriage rite – a couple was not considered married until they had cohabited. Yichud is a reminder of this: in sharing a completely private moment, the bride and groom symbolically consummate their marriage.
Two guards are appointed to check that the room the couple uses is empty upon their arrival, and to stand outside the door and ensure that they are not disturbed.
If the couple has been fasting on their wedding day, they break their fast in yichud, sharing a light meal together before they join their guests for the celebratory feast.
