The Meaning Behind “Ani L’Dodi V’Dodi Li”

Simply Two Rings by Shell Rummel

“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine,” – Song of Songs (Shir HaShirim), Chapter 6, verse 3A. Many phrases from The Song of Songs written by King Solomon, have been used throughout weddings for centuries. But why is this particular phrase so popular when it comes to weddings? What does it truly mean?

Many have pointed out that the initials of the words in this phrase spell out “Elul” which we wrote about in September. When you read the entire poem from where this phrase comes from, it is a beautiful love story between a man and a woman. Often this is read as a metaphor of the love between the Jewish people and God. Rabbi Lev Herrnson writes that in a relationship with God sometimes we seek Him and pray to Him and sometimes He blesses us. The relationships is always a give and take, a  balance. So too, a husband and wife should always give and receive love and support.

Stunning Henna Princess Papercut Ketubah Jewish Wedding by Enya Keshet
Our Stunning Henna Princess Papercut by Enya Keshet

Finding your partner, your basheret, your soul mate, is one of the hardest thing to do, so to celebrate that with a wedding, in front of everyone you love that has brought you to this moment is an incredible celebration.

That’s why so many use the phrase, “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine,” in their wedding invitation, programs and especially their ketubah.

Here are more of our favorite ketubahs with “Ani L’Dodi V’Dodi Li” and check out our Pinterest board full of more!

Holding Hands Papercut Luxe by Enya Keshet
OT Papercut Ketubah Jewish Wedding by Enya Keshet
OT Papercut by Enya Keshet
Garden of Eden in Blue Ketubah Marriage Contracts by Angela Munitz
Garden of Eden in Blue By Angela Munitz 
Symbols of Life Ketubah For Sale by Lori Loebelsohn
Symbols of Life By Lori Loebelsohn

Planning your wedding and searching for the Ketubah of your dreams? Or shopping for the perfect gift for recently engaged loved ones? Now we have you covered with our all new Ketubah gift cards!