Young Brunette Girl With A Veil In The Mountain Forest At The Tarn

In ancient Judaism the lifting the veil took place just prior to the consummation the marriage in sexual union. The uncovering or unveiling that takes place in the marriage ceremony is a symbol what will take place in the marriage bed. Just as the two become one through their words spoken in wedding vows, so these words are a sign the physical oneness that they will consummate later on. The lifting the veil is a symbol and an anticipation this.
In the Western world, St. Paul's words concerning how marriage symbolizes the union Christ and His Church may underlie part the tradition veiling in the marriage ceremony .