Breaking of the Glass

A traditional end to a Jewish wedding serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, even during the most joyous of celebrations. Life is fragile. We break this glass as a symbol of our past, even at the height of one's personal joy, we must, nevertheless, remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. The breaking of the glass symbolizes the breaking of our hearts in remembrance.

As the Groom smashes the glass with his right foot, everyone will shout Mazel Tov! which means Good Fortune, may your lives from here not be shattered, but full of fortune and joy.