The Significance of the letter Kuf in the word ‘Vekanina’

As you customize your ketubah text, you’ll encounter an intriguing question at the end of the Order Form:
Would you like the kuf in the word Vekanina to be complete or incomplete?

This question pertains to the Traditional Aramaic (Orthodox) or Conservative ketubah texts.
The word ‘Vekanina’ means “And we have completed the act of acquisition” (Kinyan).
In order to seal all of the stipulated obligations, and to assure that the document is not based on speculation, the Rabbis required the legal formality of kinyan, the act of acquisition.
Because the bride cannot take possession of all the property, the groom affirms it by a symbolic act called kinyan.

Thus, at the wedding, the rabbi or one of the witnesses gives a handkerchief or other article (not a coin) in behalf of the recipient, the bride, to the groom. The groom then returns it. Then they record in the ketubah, ve’kanina (“and we have completed the act of acquisition”). This symbolic act must be seen clearly by the witnesses, who are the makers of the contract, before they sign to its validity. If the ketubah is calligraphed by a scribe, or printed in advance of the wedding, one letter of the word ve’kanina (or the whole word) is usually omitted so that the ketubah is technically not completed before the kinyan itself is made. If this custom is overlooked it does not alter the ketubah’s validity, so long as the witnesses in fact witness the kinyan-transfer of the handkerchief.


Today, modern orthodox or conservatives couples interpret this practice in different ways, choosing what feels right for their values.

Keep the Tradition: Leave the kuf unfinished for the rabbi to complete.

Leave it Out: Skip the kuf entirely and let the rabbi write it in.

Print it Whole: Go with a fully printed kuf and skip the ritual.

Your Ketubah, Your Choice
When customizing your Ketubah text, I offer you the option to choose how the letter kuf appears.
Simply indicate your preference when filling out the personalization form, and I’ll make sure your Ketubah is created exactly as you envision.
Keep in mind, the kuf is just one small detail in your larger journey.

Explore my Text Selections and browse the Ketubah Collection, featuring everything from timeless classics, to modern art pieces, each one thoughtfully designed to honor tradition and celebrate your unique love story.

Big Thank You to all the couples who shared stunning photos from their best day ever, celebrating their love, ketubah signings, and unforgettable moments throughout this blog.