The First Year of Marriage: Why It Is Not Only a Celebration
Why the first year is for joy, but also for laying a spiritual foundation
The Torah commands a husband to bring joy to his wife during the first year of marriage. But the Rebbe stressed that this period is not only a honeymoon, but a critical time for laying the spiritual foundation of the new home.
A strategy for the first year
Torah learning comes first. The Rebbe advised that the husband devote the first year, or at least part of it, to serious Torah study. This creates a channel of blessing and stability for future livelihood.
A shared spiritual language is needed. It is valuable to establish time for husband and wife to learn permitted Torah topics together. This unites souls more deeply than entertainment.
Do not begin a home with idleness. The Rebbe did not favor the custom of leaving immediately for leisure trips after the wedding. An everlasting home begins with prayer, good deeds, and filling the new house with holiness.
Love grows gradually. In the Rebbe’s view, lasting love is built through small daily acts of care, respect, and responsibility. The first year teaches husband and wife how to become one whole.
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