ERUSIN Meaning and
Definition
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Erusin is a term deriving from Jewish tradition and refers to one of the two stages in a Jewish wedding ceremony. In traditional Jewish weddings, the ceremony is split into two parts: erusin and nissuin. Erusin is the initial stage of the wedding, also known as betrothal or engagement.
During erusin, the bride and groom make a formal commitment to one another and become legally bound as husband and wife. In this stage, the groom provides the bride with a ring or any other form of valuable object as a symbol of their betrothal. This act symbolizes the groom's intention to enter into a sacred marital relationship.
The term erusin is often translated as "betrothal" or "engagement," but it is important to note that it carries deeper connotations than the modern understanding of the words. In erusin, the couple becomes halachically bound, that is, bound by Jewish law. However, erusin alone does not permit the couple to live together or engage in marital relations.
The second stage of the Jewish wedding ceremony, nissuin, typically takes place at a later time, and it is during this stage that the couple officially begins their married life. At nissuin, the bride moves into the groom's home, and they become fully united as husband and wife.
Overall, erusin is a significant stage in a Jewish wedding ceremony, representing the commitment and legal binding of the couple, but it signifies the beginning of a process that culminates in the complete union of the couple during nissuin.
Etymology of ERUSIN
The word "erusin" has its etymology rooted in Ancient Hebrew. It derives from the verb "aras" (אָרַשׁ) which means "to betroth" or "to engage". In the context of Jewish marital customs, "erusin" refers to the formal engagement or betrothal period preceding the actual marriage ceremony. This term can be found in the Talmudic and Rabbinic literature.
