Why the Words in Your Ketubah Matter: Choosing the Right Words for Your Wedding

Your ketubah text is more than just words; it powerfully shows what you both believe in, who you are spiritually, and how you see your life together. Choosing the right text is an important and meaningful part of the wedding process, whether you want a traditional Aramaic contract or want to write your own vows.

Aramaic is the Traditional Orthodox Text

The traditional Orthodox ketubah is written in Aramaic and lists the groom’s legal duties to his bride, including ways to protect her financially. This version is hundreds of years old and is commonly used in halachic (Jewish legal) ceremonies.

• Includes: The groom’s responsibilities, the amount of mohar, and the date and place.
• The Rabbinical Council of America (RCA) gave its approval.

Orthodox Text with an English Translation

This version has the whole traditional Aramaic text and a modern English summary or codicil. It stresses faith, dedication, and the continuation of Judaism.

• Best for: Couples who want a traditional document that is also easy for guests who speak English to read.

Conservative Ketubah with the Lieberman Clause

The Conservative version adds the Lieberman Clause, which says that if the couple separates, the groom must give the bride a Get (Jewish divorce). This important addition protects the bride’s rights under Jewish law.

• Languages of the text: Aramaic with an English translation.
• Common in: Ceremonies linked to conservatives.

Reform Ketubah: In Hebrew and English

This text is written in modern Hebrew and English and is about equality, working together, and respecting each other. It focuses on love, growth, and shared values instead of the usual legal and financial responsibilities.

• Good for: Couples who are egalitarian or reform Jewish.

Text of Interfaith Ketubahs

These versions are meant to respect the cultural or spiritual backgrounds of both partners. Instead of using specific religious language, they focus on universal values like love, unity, and shared dreams.

• Common phrases: Respecting each other, valuing diversity, and making a home together.
• Couples of different faiths, cultures, and religions use it.

Texts That Are LGBTQ+ Friendly

Inclusive ketubah texts use language that is not specific to one gender and fully show the love, equality, and commitment of any couple, no matter what their gender identity is.

• Could include: Formats for two grooms or two brides, neutral pronouns, and custom titles like partner, spouse, or beloved.

Writing Your Own Ketubah Words

Some couples decide to write their own ketubah text, which can be poetic, spiritual, or based on their vows. This gives you complete freedom to be creative and feel.

• Tip: Make it short but meaningful, and if your ceremony has any legal or religious requirements, be sure to ask your officiant.
• A helpful guide: How to write your own ketubah text.

Choices for Language

You can write ketubot in a number of different languages:

• Aramaic: Traditional and halachic (Jewish law).
• Hebrew: Modern or religious.
• English: For clarity and to include everyone.
• Bilingual: Usually Hebrew-English or Aramaic-English.
• Some couples even ask for French, Spanish, or Italian versions to show where they came from.

Do You Need to Talk to Your Rabbi?

Yes, you do, especially if you are getting married in an Orthodox or Conservative setting. You may need to meet certain text, format, or language requirements set by each officiant.

💡 Always check with your rabbi to make sure the text you want is correct before you order your ketubah.

Questions That Are Often Asked (FAQ)

What are the differences between Orthodox and Reform ketubah texts? Orthodox texts are legal contracts that are written in Aramaic and deal with duties. Reform texts are fair and stress love and shared values.

What does the Lieberman Clause mean? A part of Conservative ketubot that makes sure the husband agrees to give a Jewish divorce (Get) if necessary.

Can we make our own ketubah text? Yes. A lot of couples make their ketubah unique, especially in secular, interfaith, or Reform ceremonies.

Is it okay for same-sex couples to use a ketubah? Of course. LGBTQ+ weddings and commitment ceremonies can use inclusive texts and designs.

What languages can the ketubah be written in? Bilingual, Hebrew, English, or Aramaic. Some artists speak other languages, like Spanish or French.

Does the text change the design we pick? Yes, it can. Some ketubot let you write longer or shorter texts, or have more than one column for bilingual versions. Always plan the text and design together from the start.

Next Step

🖋️ Look through our selection of ketubah texts and see which one speaks to you: Look at the different Ketubah text options

📩 Do you need help picking? Please get in touch with us to set up a free meeting with the artist.

✨ There is a ketubah text that fits your love, whether you want to follow tradition or make your own story.