pARAG Send ti the Jewish News to someone you love. was symbolic of a seal on his hand, and his heart. He was now going over to his bride and with this, would always be a blessed and honored member of his family. She then blessed me and put a dab of henna on my hand. Following this, our parents and brothers and sisters did the same. My mother covered her hand with a plastic bag. "Wait 'til I tell the girls at bridge," she said, and kissed us both. My father asked for his first grand- child before our first an- niversary, as did most of our guests. This, too, is in keeping with Yemenite tradition! We continued dancing un- til 4 a.m. when the last of our guests departed. Look- ing back now, a year later, I feel that the "Henna" will forever hold a special place in my heart. In one brief evening, I had experienced the riches and flavors of generations of Jews from a place called Yemen. They have now become my fami y ly, and I am so proud — the love, the ritual, still alive after hundreds of years. I knew no more of Yemenite customs than my mother- in-law knew of Canadian ice hockey. But it was there, at the "Henna," that two worlds, so different, were brought together. My neck and back ached for weeks and the henna stains on my palms finally faded. A henna for our daughter? I cannot imagine a greater honor, or a greater joy. ■ Outdoor Weddings I n the Middle Ages, the wedding ceremony took place in the courtyard of the synagogue. It was con- sidered a good omen for the wedding to take place under the stars, so that the children of the couple would be "as numerous as the stars in heaven." lb this day, the weddings of Hassidic Jews are usual- ly held outdoors. In parts of New York City, a whole street may be blocked off for a Hassidic wedding. Since weather is sometimes an obstacle, there are wed- ding halls patronized by Hassidim that have a small opening in the ceiling so that the mitzvah of being married under God's canopy can still be observed. For subscriptions call 354-6060 MICHIGAN'S LEADING VIDEO PROFESSIONALS NEE/2 c7q t4r% rw ODUC1.1° 14° The Videotaping Specialists 478-1818 r.ofE.6.5.tonatr y &/d