""The Ketubah"" offers a captivating exploration of the Jewish marriage contract, a document that has shaped marital traditions for over two millennia. This comprehensive study delves into the Ketubah's historical evolution, legal implications, and spiritual symbolism, shedding light on its pivotal role in Jewish family life and its influence on broader societal norms regarding marriage. The book traces the Ketubah's origins from the Babylonian exile period through to modern times, examining its impact on women's rights and its significance in Jewish law. Intriguingly, it reveals how this ancient document has served as a unique intersection of law, religion, and social custom, often providing protection for women in patriarchal societies. The Ketubah's artistic and cultural significance is also explored, showcasing its role as a form of Judaic decorative art. Progressing through historical, legal, and cultural analyses, ""The Ketubah"" draws on a wide range of primary sources and interdisciplinary connections. It challenges readers to view this ancient tradition through multiple lenses, demonstrating its enduring relevance in contemporary discussions on marriage equality and contractual relationships. By balancing scholarly rigor with engaging narrative, the book offers valuable insights for both academics and general readers interested in religious history, legal traditions, and Middle Eastern culture.

"The custom of illuminating the traditional Jewish marriage contract, the ketubbah, developed over the last four centuries into a rich and varied form of Jewish folk art. This book offers a broad selection from one of the outstanding collections of ketubbot, representing Jewish communities from the Near East to Northern Europe. It focuses particularly on the ketubbot of Italy, where the art of the illuminated ketubbah found its most beautiful expression during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, under the influence of Renaissance and Baroque art." "Co-produced with the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, home to one of the largest collections of ketubbot, this book also offers a fascinating account of Jewish marriage customs and a vivid picture of diverse Jewish communities." --Book Jacket.

A popular and authoritative presentation of Jewish teaching on love and marriage based on the traditions and laws of the Bible and of its accepted interpreters throughout Jewish history.

This is the book for all of today’s couples. Explores the rich history of Jewish wedding customs and rituals throughout the centuries while providing contemporary interpretations and creative options. Published by CCAR Press, a division of the Central Conference of American Rabbis