What Is a Ketubah? Everything You Need to Know Before Your Wedding

If you've recently gotten engaged and started exploring Jewish wedding traditions, you've probably come across the word ketubah — and maybe wondered: what exactly is it, and do I need one?

I'm Anna, and as someone who has spent years creating ketubahs for couples across the country, I love answering this question. The ketubah is one of my favorite things to talk about, because it sits at this beautiful intersection of ancient tradition and deeply personal meaning.

The Short Answer

A ketubah (כְּתוּבָּה) is a Jewish marriage contract. The word literally means "that which is written" in Hebrew. Traditionally, it outlines the groom's obligations to his bride — to honor, provide for, and cherish her. In modern egalitarian versions, the language is updated to reflect a mutual commitment between partners.

Intertwining Rings Ketubah with custom color

A Brief History

The ketubah dates back over 2,000 years, originating in ancient Babylon as a way to protect women's rights in marriage. It was a radical document for its time. Over the centuries, it evolved from a legal necessity into a cherished ritual object — one that couples display in their homes as a lasting reminder of their wedding day vows.

What Does a Ketubah Say?

The text varies depending on your tradition:

• Traditional/Orthodox ketubahs use the original Aramaic text, which outlines the husband's obligations in classical language. Browse my Orthodox Ketubah collection and Kosher Aramaic Ketubah collection.
• Conservative ketubahs often include the Lieberman Clause, an addition that addresses divorce proceedings. See my Conservative Ketubah collection.
• Reform and egalitarian ketubahs use modern, gender-neutral language that speaks to mutual love and partnership. Explore my Reform Ketubah collection.
• Interfaith and secular ketubahs can be written in almost any language and customized to reflect your unique values as a couple.

Does a Ketubah Have to Be Religious?

Not at all. Many couples today — Jewish and interfaith alike — choose a ketubah as a meaningful piece of art that represents their commitment, regardless of religious observance. The text can be as traditional or as personal as you'd like.

Is a Ketubah Legally Binding?

In most places, a ketubah is not a legally binding civil document — it's a religious and ceremonial one. You'll still need a civil marriage license. That said, some couples choose to write their ketubah text as a personal vow document that holds deep meaning even outside of religious law.

The Ketubah Signing Ceremony

One of the most moving moments of a Jewish wedding is the ketubah signing, which typically takes place just before the ceremony. Two witnesses sign the document, and often the couple signs as well. It's an intimate, joyful moment — and having a beautiful ketubah to sign makes it even more special.

Ready to find yours? Browse my full collection of unique ketubah designs — each one is a hand-painted original, printed on archival paper and customized with your names, date, and chosen text.