The henna has no religious significance. It is a traditional cultural custom practiced by Sepahardic Jews. It is suppose to symbolize prevention against the "evil eye". It is suppose to give the bride wisdom, fertility and good fortune The henna is a wedding ritual.
Leaves of the henna plant are crushed into a powder, which, when mixed with water, becomes a dough that will stain a person's skin orange for about two to three weeks if left on for two hours or more (other colors are achieved by mixing in leaves or fruits from other plants).
Known as mehndi in India, the practice dates back to at least 2000 B.C.E., and its use in ceremonies can be found from South Asia to North Africa. In India and other countries, henna is arranged in intricate lacey or floral patterns on the hands or feet, which can mean good health, fertility, wisdom, protection or spiritual enlightenment
According to Jewish tradition, the Henna ceremony is a way of preparing the bride for her departure from her family, and the Henna, pronounced in Hebrew Chenah, represents the three mitzvot specifically connected to women: Challah (separating the challah), Nida (family purity) and Hadlakat Nayrot (lighting Shabbat candles).
The henna ceremony includes food and dancing.
The Avenue Banquet Hall offers hennna ceremonies.
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