What to Write in Your Ketubah: Text Options Explained
One of the most meaningful decisions you'll make when ordering a ketubah is choosing the words it contains. The ketubah text is more than a formality — it's a declaration of your commitment, values, and the life you're building together. Whether you're planning an Orthodox ceremony, an interfaith celebration, or something entirely your own, understanding your options will help you choose wording that feels right for both of you.
This guide walks through every major text tradition, from ancient Aramaic to fully custom compositions, so you can find the perfect fit for your wedding.
Traditional Orthodox Ketubah Text
The traditional Orthodox version is written entirely in Aramaic and has remained largely unchanged for nearly two thousand years. It originated in the Talmudic period as a legal document protecting the bride's financial rights in the event of divorce or the husband's death. The language outlines the groom's obligations — providing food, clothing, and conjugal rights — along with a monetary pledge (the mohar) and the terms of the dowry.
For couples having an Orthodox ceremony, this Aramaic wording is typically required. The document must be signed by two kosher witnesses (not family members of the couple) before the ceremony, and the officiating rabbi will read portions aloud under the chuppah. The Rabbinical Council of America (RCA) has a standard version that most Orthodox rabbis accept.
If you're looking for a design with the traditional Aramaic wording, you can browse our Orthodox ketubah collection, where every option is available with the standard text approved by the RCA.
What the Traditional Text Actually Says
In plain terms, the traditional ketubah wording specifies: the date and location of the wedding, the names of the bride and groom, the groom's promise to "work, honor, feed, and support" his wife, the financial terms (typically 200 zuz for a first marriage), and the pledge that his property serves as security for these obligations. While some couples find the language archaic, others value it as a link to centuries of Jewish continuity.
Conservative Text (Lieberman Clause)
The Conservative movement introduced a significant addition to the traditional wording known as the Lieberman clause, named after Rabbi Saul Lieberman, who drafted it in 1954. This clause was designed to address the problem of the agunah — a woman unable to remarry because her husband refuses to grant a Jewish divorce (get).
The Lieberman clause adds a paragraph stipulating that both parties agree to appear before a Beth Din (rabbinical court) of the Rabbinical Assembly if the marriage is dissolved. This gives the court authority to ensure a get is granted, protecting both spouses. The Conservative version retains the full traditional Aramaic language while including this additional protective clause.
If your rabbi is affiliated with the Conservative movement, they will likely require or recommend this version. You can find designs with the Lieberman clause in our Conservative ketubah collection.
Reform Ketubah Text
Reform Judaism takes a different approach. Rather than using the traditional Aramaic legal language, Reform wording is typically written in English (or a combination of English and Hebrew) and focuses on the couple's mutual commitments, love, and shared values.
These texts tend to be egalitarian by nature, with both partners making the same promises to each other. The language often references building a Jewish home, supporting each other through life's challenges, and honoring the traditions that matter to the couple. Some versions include poetic or spiritual language drawn from Song of Songs, the Psalms, or modern Jewish writers.
Because there is no single required Reform text, couples have considerable freedom. Some prefer a short, elegant statement of commitment; others want a longer, more detailed expression of their values. Our Reform and Egalitarian collection includes a range of options to suit different preferences.
Egalitarian Wording
Egalitarian ketubah wording removes the gendered asymmetry of the traditional text so that both partners make identical commitments. This approach is popular not only within the Reform movement but also among many Conservative and unaffiliated couples who want their marriage document to reflect a partnership of equals.
Egalitarian versions are typically written in Hebrew and English (or English alone) and may include language about mutual respect, shared responsibility for the home, and joint commitment to Jewish life. The key distinction from the Orthodox text is that neither partner is positioned as the provider or the recipient — both are active, equal participants.
A number of contemporary rabbis have authored widely used egalitarian texts that are now standard in many communities. Your officiant may also have a preferred version, so it's worth asking early in the planning process.
Interfaith Ketubah Text
For couples where one partner is not Jewish, interfaith wording offers a way to honor both traditions — or to create a universal statement of commitment that doesn't require either partner to adopt the other's beliefs. These texts avoid language that assumes both partners are Jewish while still preserving the spirit of the marriage contract as a sacred document.
Some interfaith versions reference God or a higher power in inclusive terms; others are entirely secular. Many include language about respecting each other's heritage, building a home that honors both families' traditions, and creating a shared spiritual life. The tone can range from deeply spiritual to warmly humanistic, depending on the couple's preferences.
Finding the right interfaith wording can feel tricky, but it doesn't have to be. Our interfaith collection includes options specifically written for couples of mixed backgrounds, so every word feels authentic to your relationship.
LGBTQ+ Wording
LGBTQ+ couples need wording that reflects their relationship without the gendered assumptions built into the traditional text. These versions use gender-neutral or gender-appropriate language, replacing "bride and groom" with "beloved and beloved," "partner and partner," or the couple's preferred terms.
Beyond pronouns and titles, many LGBTQ+ texts celebrate the couple's journey, acknowledge the significance of their union within Jewish tradition, and affirm the equal sanctity of their commitment. Some are adapted from existing egalitarian or Reform versions; others are written specifically for same-sex or nonbinary couples.
Browse our LGBTQ+ collection for designs paired with inclusive language that honors who you are and who you love.
Secular Humanist Wording
Not every couple wants religious language in their marriage document. Secular Humanist wording focuses on the human commitment between two people — love, partnership, mutual support, and shared goals — without referencing God, halacha, or religious obligation.
This approach is ideal for couples who value the cultural and artistic tradition of the ketubah but don't identify with a particular denomination. These texts are often beautifully written, drawing on philosophy, literature, and the couple's own values rather than liturgical sources.
You'll find a thoughtful selection of non-religious options in our Secular Humanist collection.
Sephardic Wording
Sephardic ketubah text follows the same basic Aramaic structure as the Ashkenazi Orthodox version, but with notable differences in wording, legal formulations, and monetary terms. Sephardic communities historically used different amounts for the mohar and may include additional conditions or blessings specific to their regional traditions (Moroccan, Syrian, Iraqi, Yemenite, etc.).
If you come from a Sephardic background, your rabbi will likely have a specific version they prefer. It's important to confirm the exact wording early so we can accommodate any differences in length or layout. If you need help matching a Sephardic text to one of our designs, reach out and we'll work with you to get it right.
Custom Ketubah Text
If none of the standard options feel quite right, custom ketubah text lets you say exactly what you mean. Some couples write their vows together and use those as the basis for their document. Others work with their officiant to adapt an existing version, adding or removing sections to match their beliefs. A few commission poets or calligraphers to compose something entirely original.
Going custom is a wonderful option for couples who want their document to be as unique as their relationship. Just keep a few practical things in mind: confirm with your officiant that they'll accept the wording for your ceremony, keep the total word count reasonable for the design layout, and finalize everything well before your print deadline.
At Ketubah Tov, we make it easy to use your own words. Visit our custom text page to see how it works — you can pair any of our designs with your personalized wording.
How to Choose the Right Text
With so many options, here's a simple framework for narrowing things down:
Start with your officiant. If you have a rabbi or cantor performing your ceremony, ask what they require or recommend. Some officiants are flexible; others have strict requirements, especially in Orthodox and Conservative settings. Knowing this early saves time.
Talk to each other. The wording should resonate with both of you. Read a few options aloud together and notice which language makes you feel something. If one version makes you both smile or tear up, that's a strong sign.
Consider your audience. Your ketubah will likely be displayed at your wedding and in your home afterward. Think about whether you want guests (and future children) to be able to read it. Many couples choose a bilingual version with both Hebrew or Aramaic and English for this reason.
Don't overthink it. This is a beautiful part of your wedding, but it doesn't have to capture every nuance of your relationship. Choose words that feel honest and meaningful, and trust that the document will grow in significance over the years.
Find Your Ketubah at Ketubah Tov
At Ketubah Tov, every design in our collection is available with your choice of text — Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Egalitarian, Interfaith, LGBTQ+, Secular Humanist, or fully custom. Our ketubahs start at $99, and we work with you to make sure every detail is perfect before printing.
Browse the full collection to find a design you love, then choose the ketubah text that speaks to your heart. If you have questions about which wording is right for your ceremony, we're always happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write my own ketubah text?
Yes. Custom text is a wonderful option for couples who want their ketubah to say exactly what they mean. Just confirm with your officiant that they accept custom wording, and finalize the text well before your print deadline.
What language should my ketubah be in?
Traditional Orthodox ketubahs are in Aramaic. Many modern ketubahs are in English, Hebrew, or a combination. Choose the language that feels most meaningful to you and your partner — many couples opt for bilingual text so everyone can read it.
Do I need the traditional Aramaic text?
Only if your rabbi requires it. Orthodox rabbis will insist on the standard Aramaic wording. Conservative rabbis may require it or accept a modified version. Reform and other liberal rabbis are generally open to any text that feels right for the couple.
What is the Lieberman clause?
The Lieberman clause is an addition to the traditional Conservative ketubah text, introduced by Rabbi Saul Lieberman in 1954. It stipulates that both parties agree to appear before a rabbinical court (Beth Din) if the marriage is dissolved, helping to prevent the agunah problem — where a spouse cannot remarry because a Jewish divorce (get) hasn't been granted.