Contemporary Version of Traditional Seven Jewish Blessings

Although there are many contemporary renditions of the traditional Seven Jewish Wedding Blessings, including several on this blog, this one is particularly compelling because of its outward orientation, focusing not solely on the couple but their loved ones, community and the world.  At a recent wedding, the couple had seven different honored guests each read one entry from the piece. 

Blessing for the Earth, Environment, and Nature

Nature and the environment provide sustenance for our bodies and spirit.  Land, air, water, all living creatures and plants bring us great joy.  Our appreciation of nature reveals an essence of ourselves.

Blessing for the Diversity of Humankind

The recognition of differences, in each other as well as the recognition of the things we have in common, helps us to appreciate the diversity and commonality we find in all of humankind.  We are challenged to respect each other for those differences.  We learn tolerance through our relationship and the understanding of difference makes our lives richer.

Blessing for Peace and Freedom for All People

We are fortunate to live our lives in peace and freedom, and we wish for a world free from suffering and oppression.  May the actions we take in our lives contribute to the making of a better world.

Blessed is the Joy of Art and Music

We are blessed with art and music.  They add joy and fulfillment to our lives.  Through the making of art we become in touch with ourselves, through the sharing of art we are brought closer to each other and to our fellow human beings.

Blessing for Family and Friends

We are grateful for the love and support of family and friends:  love that is expressed in laughter and through tears, and support that is founded on trust and respect.  We wish good health, long life, and much happiness for all those we love.

Blessing for the Couple

Bless our couple in their life and home together.

Blessing of the Wine

Blessed are you (God), creator of the fruit of the vine.

The Jewish Seven Blessings (Sheva B'rachot)

The seven Jewish blessings praise God for creating the fruit of the vine (wine); humankind; man and woman; the miracle of childbirth; bringing the bride and groom together like the first couple, Adam and Eve; the couple’s joy and the hope for a future filled with their joy, and the voices of their children. Usually couples choose seven relatives and friends to recite them. There are many versions, including this contemporary one:

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Source of the universe, who created the fruit of the vine, symbol of joy.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Source of the universe, who has created all things to Your glory.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Source of the universe, Creator of humankind.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Source of the universe, who has made man in Your image after Your likeness, and has fashioned woman from man as his companion, that together they may perpetuate life. Blessed are You, Adonai, Creator of humankind.

May Zion rejoice as her children are restored to her in joy. Blessed art You, Adonai, who causes Zion to rejoice at her children’s return.

Make this bride and groom into loving companions, just as You did the creatures in the Garden of Eden. Blessed art You, Adonai, who bestows lasting joy on groom and bride.