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Berachos Recited in English

If berachos are recited in English are they valid? What if the person reciting the beracha does not understand Hebrew, but only English?

Would sheva berachos made in English under the chuppah on behalf of a non-Hebrew speaking choson and kallah be valid?

Answer:

Berachos made in English are valid, as clear from the Gemara (Sotah 32a), and from a number of sources (Rabbi Akiva Eiger 25; Tashbatz Vol. 3, no. 121; see also Beis Yitzchak, Orach Chaim 10:13).

This is also ruled by the Mishnah Berurah (62:1 in Biur Halachah; see, however, Aruch Hashulchan 62:4). See also Shaarei Berachah, Chap. 10, note 16 and on.

However, the common custom is to recite all berachos in Hebrew, even by and for those who don’t understand them. The berachos in Hebrew are valid even if the person reciting them does not understand the words. This option is generally preferable, though it is permitted to recite the berachos in English where required.

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