Marriage fulfils the command in Genesis to be fruitful and multiply. It is seen as sacred. The wedding takes place under a chuppah which is usually a large piece of material (can be a tallit) supported by four poles. Different reasons are given for the chuppah including - representing the tent of Abraham famous for his hospitality; representing the home the newlyweds; reminder of God’s protection. The marriage is in two stages. The rabbi recites two blessings over a cup of wine from which the couple drink. Following this the groom makes a statement and places the ring on the bride’s finger in the presence of valid witnesses. It is customary for the ketubah (wedding contract) to be read out. The second stage includes the seven vows of marriage. The bride and groom drink wine from the second cup. At the end of the ceremony a glass is smashed under the foot of the groom. Some say this is to represent the sorrow over the destruction of the Temple; others that it is a warning that life is not all happiness. Mourning: Onan, the role of the chevra kaddisha, shiva, kaddish and yahrzeit Mourning rituals show all are equal in death. It is important to care for the bereaved and treat the body with respect as it’s the earthly container for the soul. The onan is the main mourner. The chevra kaddisha (synagogue’s burial society) stay with and prepare the body. Usually burials take place although many Reform Jews are now choosing cremations. The funeral is very simple with psalms and the kaddish said. Mourners sit shiva for seven days by staying at home and being visited by relatives and friends. There are then different periods of mourning when, for example, no music is allowed. Male mourners are obliged to say the kaddish regularly as part of a minyan. There is no obligation for women to say the kaddish. Kaddish is generally recited for 11 months after the death of a parent and a month for other close relatives. A yahrzeit ceremony when prayers are said and a candle burns for 24 hours is held each year to mark the anniversary of the death.