Judaica

Sounds simple, doesn’t it?  For me, however, when I needed to buy a menorah, it was a very, very big deal.  I was looking for just the right one for a long time, and now that I’ve finally found it, I want to share the good news:  It’s easy, once you know where to look.  I’m not some kind of art expert, or a collector of menorahs, or anything like that. Here’s my story:  When I was a child, we kids had our own special menorah.  After the family ceremony each night, we’d light our own menorah just before bedtime. When my daughter was small, she had her own menorah, too.  I’d bought it in Israel, where we were living for a few years, and when we moved back to the US, her menorah...

Silver Judaica art has its beginning roots in the Old Testament of the Bible and is just as important and precious today as it was back then. There are as much of the Jewish traditional objects as the rituals in Judaism. These items are the rituals in so many ways that they are big business, as to were many producers of Silver Judaica could take advantage of needs for pure profits. But this is untrue with many artists who have the art in them. They are the ones that ritualistically create out of their heart and it is the quality, not the profit that drives these artists. Either path the artist goes down, Silver Judaica will always be needed and desired for the many Judaic religious ceremonies...

> Chanukah is the main characteristic of the Jewish festival which is also know as the festival of colors. Every sunset for 8 days, one more candle is added in menorah those that already carry on glowing until at the last part of the week. The top point of menorah is forever glowing. On the very first night of Chanukah, two candles are lit, the center one & one on the base. At the last part of the 8 days, it looks very beautiful. This is the ceremonial for the Chanukah’s lighting. The Chanukah menorah is also known as Hanukiyah. It has nine holders which carry candles. There are total eight candles, one for each night of Chanukah. The 9th candle is known as the...

> Chanukah is a festival with duration of eight days. It begins on the twenty-fifth day of the month of Kislev. It is celebrates to rejoice the victory of the Jews against religious oppression and Greek persecution. In addition to being successful in battle, one more wonder happened. When the Maccabees arrive to rededicate the shrine, they discover only solitary container of oil with which to light the Menorah. This little container lasted for next eight days. One story of the motive for lighting the Chanukah Menorahs, every day for eight days, is in festivity for this wonder, but there are numerous replies presented to resolve the discussion and the questions...

With every religion, you will find that there are symbols, signs and even certain types of clothing that are exclusively associated with their customs and practices. Jewish customs are no different and there are actually a few things that are associated with the religion that one person or another should have and use at most times if not all the time. One of these practices includes a head gear that is called a kippah. These kippot are worn on the head by Jewish males all the time except when they go to sleep. Even the men that do not actively practice the religion are recommended to wear one if they are entering a religious building or gathering. The word kippot is actually a plural word and the...

A Menorah is a candelabrum that has close association with Jewish history and ritual. It should be noted that there is a seven branched Menorah and a special nine branched Hanukkah Menorah, which is also called a Chanukiah. According to the Bible and the Talmud, Bezelel made the original Menorah for the Tabernacle. It was made from a single mass of gold. If you study the Jewish history, you will understand that the Tabernacle was the temporary, mobile center for worshipping God used by the Israelites from the days of Moses till the First Temple was constructed in Jerusalem. Tradition says that the original Menorah was there in the First Temple with ten extra lamps. However, they got destroyed when...

Rosh HaShana is the beginning of the Jewish New Year and is one of the "Days of Awe".  It is popularly known as one of the "Days of Awe" and is also the first of the Ten Days of Repentance, when Jews atone for their sins.  Rosh HaShana is the day on which Jews declare G-d to be the master over all.  It addition, under the Jewish calendar it is the day on which man was created.  During this two-day period, there are numerous Judaica that play a prominent role in helping Jews to focus on the two tasks at hand:  accepting G-d as king over the world and beginning to ask for forgiveness for sins. The most well known piece of Rosh HaShana Judaica is the Shofar.  The Shofar is a horn of a goat, sheep...

Menorah, the eight-armed candle that is lit step by step during the celebration of Hanukkah, has a very important place in Jewish culture and lives. The festivities venerate a miracle that happened after the Jews overthrew an oppressive monarchy. On that day, people could not find enough quantities of pure olive oil required to light up the Menorah, which is a symbol and early religious item related to the Tabernacle of the biblical era. But the story goes that the little oil they could find lasted for eight days. The miracle is remembered every year during the Hanukkah by lighting up the replicas of the menorah, at every home. Jews have carried forward the tradition even with all the hardships they...

Hanukkah or the "Festival of Lights" is an eight day Jewish holiday and it starts on the 25th of Kislev. This holiday celebrates the miracle that happened after the Second Temple in Jerusalem was defiled by the forces of Antiochus. With the intention of re-dedicating the Temple and light the holy Menorah there, the Maccabees looked for pure olive oil which had not been defiled. A small container of oil, with enough oil for just one day was found. There occurred the miracle. The oil was sufficient to light the Menorah for eight days. And that was exactly the time taken to press, prepare and sanctify fresh olive oil. The mitzvah of lighting the Hanukkah Menorah is to light the candles each night with...

The menorah is used during the eight day celebration of Hanukkah. The Hebrew word for menorah is Hanukiyah. Some people also call it a candelabra or candelabrum. Hanukkah is celebrated each year on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev. Depending on when that date falls, Hanukkah is celebrated in late November or early December. The first menorah had seven branches. Each branch symbolized one day of the week and it burned olive oil. The second menorah also had seven branches, but when the first and second Temples were destroyed seven branched menorahs were no longer used. Seven branched menorahs are available in today's modern times though, in honor of and as a reminder of the first...

Menorahs - Hanukah's answer to winter darkness, lighting the sky over the ancient lands of the Hebrews, the holy Torah, the Star of David, all the way to today's Jerusalem skyline. Called the Festival of Lights with its myriad menorahs illuminating this centuries-old tradition, it may have been invented just for those of us who love candlelight. Maybe...maybe... Okay, okay - maybe not. Or is it Hanukkah with two k's? And hey, what the heck is a "Torah"? Yes, that was a sad, audible sigh you just heard from the "enlightened" side of the world. It's true: most of us without a Jewish heritage don't have any idea what Hanukah is all about, and wouldn't recognize a menorah if it was monogrammed on our...

Menorah is one of the prized possessions kept by every traditional Jewish family. These exquisite and religiously important candle stands are usually handed down from generation to generation. The candle is lighted every year on the occasion of Hanukkah Menorah, which is a festival that remembers the triumph of Jews over an oppressive dynasty. On the day of the victory, they could not find enough oil to light the eight arms of the Menorah. But miraculously, the little oil they could find lasted for eight days. Thus originated the festival of Hanukkah Menorah. The festivities continue for eight days as a symbol of the eight days of the miracle. Only one arm is lighted a day and the whole lamp is...

Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Temple after the success of a Jewish revolt against the then monarchy. It is said that the victorious Jews could find only very little pure olive oil that could light the Menorah only for a day. But miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days before they could find an alternative source of virgin olive oil. The miracle started a tradition of lighting eight candles on different arms of a nine-armed candlestick. Each day one arm is lighted. The candle that is used to light all the arms is kept at the main arm. The importance of this festival can be gauged from the fact that no devout Jew would ever dream of missing the yearly...

Hanukkah is one of the most important festivals of Jews. Jews all over the world light up the Hanukkah Menorah, which is an eight-armed lamp, as a reminder to the victory of Jews over a dynasty, which was harming their culture and interests on the occasion of the festival. The story goes that Jews, after their memorable victory, could not find ample supply of oil to light up the Menorah. But the little quantity they found lasted for full eight days. The miracle is etched in the folklore of Jewish culture and as a commemoration; they celebrate the miracle by lighting up Menorahs at their houses every year ion the month of Kislev. Every traditional Jewish family, wherever they are situated in the...

The Hoshen in Judaica jewelry is inspired by Israel's rich historical past. Based on the linen 'breastplate' that was worn by Israel's High Priests in biblical times, the design is seen as a powerful symbol of hope and optimism. Whether worn in the form of a pendant, earrings, or a broach, it is an attractive piece of jewelry that represents Israel's culture and religion. The Hoshen is sometimes known of as "Aaron's Breastplate", or "the Breastplate of Judgment". Made for Israel's first High Priest Aaron, it was part of the original ceremonial vestments that were passed down to every High Priest succeeding him. When officiating at ceremonies in the Temple, the reigning High Priest would wear it on...

The Jewish Mezuzah is considered the main protector of the home. It comprises Mezuzah scrolls, which have the famous religious Hebrew passages called Shema Israel. These passages are contained within the Mezuzah klaf or scroll. Misunderstood symbol While there are several predominant symbols across Judaism such as the Torah, Hamsa, Star of David etc. it is the Mezuzah, which remains the most misunderstood symbol of Judaism. The Mezuzah has its first mention in the Torah and these days of modern times, the Jewish Mezuzah graces doors of most religious Jewish families. Whether the Jewish family is Orthodox or Conservative, the Mezuzah is sure to be found at the doorsteps of their homes. If the Jewish...

Churches and synagogues are non-profit organizations and are always in need of funds. It is through donations that clergy salaries are paid, the building is maintained and programs are offered to congregants. Since these groups always need funds, churches and synagogues are wonderful organizations to approach about fundraisers. Often there are sub groups within a church or synagogue. You'll find a brotherhood. You'll find a sisterhood. You'll find a board of directors. Often you'll also find school programs, possibly a preschool and/or a Sunday school. I would approach only one of the groups. Find the group leader and present your fundraising proposal to that person. Often, I'll start with the...

Many "Christian Identity" groups (who taint the Israelite origins of the West) claim that most who refer to themselves today as Jews aren't really Jews but dangerous imposters. Such misguided souls rely heavily upon two scriptures, taken out of context, to stoke their unwarranted hatred: "And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, but thou art rich and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan." (Rev. 2:8-9) "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he...

A well conducted solicitation can bring about a big change in the members we meet with-from one set of attitudes and understandings to another that will make him/her not just a more generous contributor to the Campaign, but also a more active participant in synagogue life. Each solicitation must be specially designed to fit the individual member, but the key factor for success is ultimately you, the volunteer solicitor and how well you prepare for the encounter. No manual can make you a solicitor! The more you solicit the more effective you will be. Our modest hope with these tips is to pass on some techniques IDS has found to be successful. There are no guaranteed techniques! You are best served by...

THE EAGLETS CELEBRATED WITH SANI EMMANUEL AND ONAZI OGENYI AT THE SYNAGOGUE. On Sunday, 8th November 2009 a thanksgiving service was held at the Synagogue Church Of All Nations, Lagos Nigeria, for the duo of Sani Emmanuel and Ogenyi Onazi both of My People FC and members of the Golden Eaglets team that lost to the Switzerland team. It was pomp and pageantry all the way, from the beginning of the service to the end. The duo of Sani Emmanuel and Onazi Ogeni walked into the church auditorium to give their speeches and thanks to the members of the church, the nation Nigeria and the world at large for their support and encouragement before, during and after the tournament. Accompanied by some members of...

Chanukah, or the "Festival of Lights" is an eight day Jewish holiday which starts on the 25th of Kislev. The Miracle This holiday commemorates the miracle which occurred after the Second Temple in Jerusalem after it was desecrated by the forces of Antiochus. The Maccabees wanted to re-dedicate the Temple and light the holy Menorah there. They searched for pure olive which hadn't been defiled. They found one small container of oil, with enough oil for only one day. The miracle occurred when the oil was sufficient to light the Menorah for eight days, which was the length of time it took to press, prepare and consecrate fresh olive oil. The Story In 175 BCE, Antiochus Epiphanes became the king of Syria...

Menorah pendants are very popular with those involved in the Jewish faith as a result of the importance of the menorah itself in Jewish culture and religion. The menorah is one of the oldest symbols of Judaism, with history dating back thousands of years. The standard menorah is a seven-armed candle holder that is used year round in religious ceremonies. It is so prominent in Jewish culture that it is also depicted on the emblem of Israel. The standard menorah is said to represent several different things. First, it is supposed to represent the burning bush that Moses saw, at which point God conversed with him and made his presence known. It is also said to represent the everlasting presence of God...

The Menorah is a seven branched candelabrum to be light by olive oil in the tabernacle and the temple in Jerusalem. The Menorah is one of the oldest symbols of the Jews, it is said to symbolize the burning bash as seen by Moses on Mount Sinai. Symbolically, the Menorah represent the creation of the universe in seven days, the center light symbolizes the Shabbat. The seven branches are also the seven continents on earth and the seven heavens, guided by the light of God. As mentioned in the Zohar, "these lamps, like the plants above, receive their light from the sun", (Beha'aloteka beginning). Synagogues feature a continually lit lamp in front of the ark, where the Torah scroll is kept. Called the...

As with any other religion, there are signs, symbols, practices and customs that are an integral part of Jewish life. One of the obvious identifiers of a religious Jewish man is the kippah. Kippas are the circular skullcaps that Jewish men wear at all times. When visiting a significant religious area like a synagogue, even non-practicing or non-religious men are encouraged to wear kippas. Kippah is the Hebrew word for these head coverings (plural is kippot or kippas). Yarmulka (plural is yarmulkes) is the Yiddish word for kippah, which is more widely known among non-Jewish English speakers. Religious Jewish men wear kippas at all times, whereas less observant men wear kippas only during prayer and...

A Bar Mitzvah only happens once in a person's life so it is an opportunity for the friends and relatives to give gifts that will last his lifetime. It is not always easy to choose something or to know what is suitable, especially if you don't know the young man very well. Here is where we can help you out. Tips on Bar or Bat Mitzvah Gift buying: People often buy books or send checks for Bar Mitzvah gifts, but if you are the kind of person who wants to make a more personal touch, we have some ideas for you. We believe that gifts should be treasured and that they can last a lifetime. My brother has gifts that he received at his Bar Mitzvah in 1980 and he still uses and displays them today. Actually, I...

Jewish jewelry comes in many forms and shapes. From the ancient Hamsa hand to the majesty of the Jewish Menorah - Jewish jewelry is exquisitely unique in its purpose and design, and packed with religious significance. During 2,000 years of Diaspora, it was these unusual symbols that marked and distinguished Jewish families, which kept their ancient tradition alive. Let's start with the Jewish Menorah. It is the most important of the Jewish artifacts, as it has been for nearly 3 millennia. Thus, it is no surprise to learn the Menorah is the official emblem of the modern State of Israel. Artistically speaking, the Menorah is a 7-branched candelabrum, and this unusual geometry was handed down to Moses...

Children, as well as adults, love to play the Dreidel Game during Hanukkah (also spelt Chanukah), and a wide range of dreidels can easily be purchased online at judaica shops. The selection and variation of styles available can be overwhelming, but the game played with them is always the same! A dreidel (also spelt draydel and draydle) is a four-sided top or any shaped spinning item with four Hebrew symbols on it. The symbols are each a different Hebrew letter: nun, gimel, heh, and shin. These four letters stand for the words: nes, gadol, hayah, and sham. The translation of these four words is: "A Great Miracle Happened There." In Israel, the last letter on the dreidel is peh instead of shin. This...

Everyone knows that the Jewish Hanukkah Holiday's custom is to light the menorah. The concern many people have is whether lighting the menorah requires candles specifically manufactured for the Hanukkah Menorah or any ordinary candle will do the job. While browsing Judaica stores one will find many types of Hanukkah candles but the truth is that according to Jewish custom any candle will do the job. In Jewish code of law there is no such thing as a Hanukkah Candle. However manufacturers have produced candles with a Hanukkah theme and color thus adding excitement to the Menorah lighting. Another fact about Hanukkah menorah lighting is that one does not need to light with candles, oil or any other...

Need to buy a Dreidel for Hanukkah? Sure, in order to celebrate Hanukkah you’re definitely going to need a menorah and some candles, but seriously – what’s Hanukkah without a dreidel?  And while it’s an essential, it’s one item you’re quite likely not to be able to find when you’re preparing for the holiday, getting out your menorah and candles from wherever you’ve been storing them.  Why you can’t find it is no mystery – that cute but crafty little devil has a way of spinning itself out of sight, into a floor heating grate, into a dustball, who knows where it goes to hide, never to be found again.  So, given the central role the beloved toy plays in the enjoyment of this...

More than two thousand years ago, King Antiochus, ruler of the Greek Empire, occupied the land of Israel. Antiochus commanded all Jews who lived in his territories to abandon their faith. The oppressive verdict caused rivalry among the Jews who refused to abandon their  faith and worship Greek Gods. Under the leadership of a small group, called the Maccabees, a small yet fierce Jewish army was determined to fight against their oppressors.  After three years of bloody battles, the outnumbered Jewish army defeated the many trained soldiers of the Greek Empire. That can be described as the first miracle of Hanukkah. As described in the Talmud, after defeating the Greeks, the Maccabees rededicated...

The elegance of Silver Kiddush Cups is a rarity that lasts for generations. The Kiddush itself is a ceremonial tradition which has a long history that is derived from Jewish Law, or torah. The torah states that Jews worldwide, from generation to generation, must remember and keep the Sabbath or Shabbat. Kiddush literally means, sanctification, to sanctify the Holy Jewish Sabbath. The most traditional of all types of Kiddush cups, is the Silver Kiddush cup. Despite the fact that any cup may be used for Kiddush, so long as seventy-seven milliliters of liquid or a revi'it of liquid is used for the blessing, the most common and requested of all cups are Silver Kiddush Cups. Silver Kiddush Cups as Gifts...

Passover is the most celebrated Jewish holiday all across the world. It has become a traditional custom to bring gifts to your hosts on Passover dinner, the Seder. Passover gifts are often both decorative and practical. Popular Passover gifts, such as Passover Seder plates are also given as gifts on special occasions such as Jewish weddings. Contemporary Judaic artists have made a great contribution to the wide selection of originally designed Passover gifts. Here are the most popular kinds of Passover gifts. Passover Seder Plate During Passover dinner we eat six traditional foods that commemorate the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt. The six ceremonial foods play an integral part of retelling...

During the colonial period, Aruba and many of her Caribbean neighbors experienced an influx of immigrants from throughout the world. As Aruba was once a colony of The Netherlands, the Dutch influence on Aruban culture is still strong and many current residents are descendants of Dutch colonizers. However, because of the diversity of peoples that have called this island home, daily life in Aruba continues to be influenced by African, South American and native Caribbean cultures. Nowhere is this exciting diversity more apparent than in houses of worship found throughout Aruba. Though the island remains predominantly Catholic, nearly all of the world's major religions are represented by the local...

Istanbul walking tours are considered as great ways to explore the history and art and architecture of the city. One can learn about these tours conducted to help the tourists explore mosques, tombs, bazaars and baths, among other sites located in Istanbul. Istanbul transfers facilities are the good ways to move around the city. Apart from that, one can think of having a distinguished experience by participating in the popular walking tours arranged for the tourists to get around the city on foot. Here are the most important sites that one can cover using the walking tours in the city. Blue Mosque Tour One of the famous walking tours in Istanbul covers the Blue Mosque area of the city. Those...

If you are looking for a European tourist destination, consider the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. It may be the only region of Italy named for a road, one constructed by the Ancient Romans almost 2200 years ago. This article describes the Emilia subregion, a bit of its history, its many tourist attractions, local food, and local wine. A companion article presents Romagna, the eastern "half" of the region. Our tour of Emilia starts at Piacenza, an Etruscan city proud of its baroque statues, a Thirteenth Century Palace, Palazzo del Comune, and a Cathedral with a very interesting bell tower. Art museums display both Etruscan and Nineteenth and Twentieth Century Italian art. Opera lovers...

Sporting Events Over the next few months or so, the capital is going to play host to a number of national and international events. Between Rugby, World Cup Qualifiers, and Gaelic Games, it sure is going to be a very busy time at Croke Park stadium (affectionately known as Croker to the locals!). Also on offer in Dublin is the Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta, The Fáilte Ireland Horse Show and if you are looking for something different, you could look in on some big muscly men throwing their weight around at the Wrestlemania Revenge Tour. Shopping Avid shoppers have died and gone to heaven here. Grafton Street and Henry Street, both pedestrianised streets are the main areas that shoppers tend to...

Czech Republic is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. The capital of Czech Republic is Prague which is also the biggest city of Czech Republic and a popular tourist destination. Czech Republic became a member of European Union in May, 2004. About the county Czech Republic is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. The capital of Czech Republic is Prague which is also the biggest city of Czech Republic and a popular tourist destination. Czech Republic became a member of...

Introduction Manchester is a city in the north-west of England, situated in a bowlshaped land area. The city centre is located on the River Irwell. Planning for a vacation in Manchester is a great idea. Manchester isone of the largest cities of England and contains a rich cultural andtraditional values, worth to see and feel. Great places to see, enjoyand stay make Manchester a city for tourists? place of interest. History The Manchester area was settled in Roman times: General Agricola calleda fort he set up there Mamucium, meaning 'breast-shaped hill.' Afacsimile of a Roman fort exists in Castlefield, in the city centre. Manchester remained a small market town until the Industrial Revolution...

1. The Royal Castle - One of the most popular Budapest attractions is the Royal Palace. Built in the thirteen hundreds, this massive structure has a history that goes back quite a ways, and the castle includes a number of different building styles and architectural influences. Hungary travel information for the castle is widely available because of the high popularity it enjoys for visitors. 2. Matthias Church - Mathias Church, formally known as the Church of Our Lady, is one of the most visited and well known Budapest attractions. More than seven hundred years have passed since this church was first constructed, and it is still used for Mass and other events today. The unique and elaborate...

Budapest is one of the beautiful places of the world. It is rich in natural beauty. From historical point of view, Budapest is an important place. Some of the great buildings and monuments of the world are constructed in this part of the world. This place has a hedonistic and sophisticated side. From opulent hotels to countryside pubs, Budapest offers everything to make your trip really interesting and exciting. This Hungarian city is becoming a design scene with a monthly market that features furniture, chic clothing and beautiful accessories and hip boutiques. Apart from its stylish accessories and dresses, Budapest also offers delicious cuisines and beverages. Tokaji wine and paprika-accented...

Hungary is located in central Europe and is a great place to visit. Indeed it is frequently mentioned as one of the top 20 countries that any traveler must visit. Its capital Budapest is considered to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in th.. Hungary is located in central Europe and is a great place to visit. Indeed it is frequently mentioned as one of the top 20 countries that any traveler must visit. Its capital Budapest is considered to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. Being centrally located in Europe, it shares its borders with Ukraine, Romania, Slovakia, Croatia, Austria, Slovenia and Serbia. Temperatures in Hungary top 40 degrees...

The Hungarian Capital is your destination, if you are looking to have some really nice time enjoying very vibrant nightlife, scenic beauty, mesmeric islands, charming churches, magnificent museums, sizzling spas, etc. Often known as "Paris of the East" and "Pearl of the Danube," Budapest is one of the most beautiful and coveted destinations of the central Europe. Located on the banks of the Danube River in north-central Hungary, Budapest is the chief political, administrative, artistic, educational, business, industrial, and transportation hub of the Hungary. The 'Queen of the Danube,' Budapest is one of the most attractive capitals in the world. Your Budapest is engrossed fully in olden times...

If you are looking for fine German wine and food, consider the Rheinhessen region of southwestern Germany. You may find a bargain, and I hope that you'll have fun on this fact-filled wine education tour in which we review a local white Liebfraumilch. Rheinhessen is a relatively small area, sometimes called the land of the thousand hills, nestled between the Rhine and the Nahe Rivers. When Charlemagne was ruling the roost Rheinhessen wines were already well known. Of all thirteen German wine regions Rheinhessen has the largest area planted in wine grapes and the highest wine production. In fact it is responsible for more than one quarter of the German wine acreage and wine production. Rheinhessen...

The Jewish or Hebrew ghetto of Venice was the first ghetto for Jews in Europe and was the place where the word first originated. This shameful part of Venice's history is little publicized. A once run down and remote area of Venice Italy in the Cannaregio Sestiere (suburb) was where Venice's Jewish population were forced to live from the 16th century until the late 18th century when Napoleon lifted the restrictions on their movements. The ghetto was guarded, living conditions were cramped and uncomfortable, and yet despite this the Jewish population grew to a peak of around 7000 before declining to only 500 after World War II and the Holocaust. Now enjoying something of a revival, the Jewish Venice...

Who doesn't remember that sight every week, when his mother stood glowing, lighting the Shabbat candles in the gorgeous family silver candle holders? The candle holders, like the Kiddush cups, are a symbol which is highly recognized with Judaism; always bring back sweet memories of warmth, light, happiness and family. Why Do We Light Them? The Jewish tradition states that in every household, candles should be lit at the beginning of every Shabbat and Jewish holiday. Although it has long become the custom that the women light the candles, when there are only men, they can light the candles as well. One of the main reasons for lighting the candles is to add light and piece to the home. Although the...

Many people who adhere to the religious Jewish customs are keen to buy tefillin and there are several considerations to think about before buying tefillin as well. The tefillin is a holy object, which Jewish men will wear when they offer their prayers during the morning. In some of the liberal Jewish communities, the women also wear the tefillin. What are they? Tefillin refer to leather boxes, which get strapped over the head and on one of the hands. The boxes comprise holy scrolls used in prayers. Once you have been able to find a particular place where to buy tefillin you need to understand, which tefillin types you require or, which ones are suited to you. Sephardi or Ashkenazi The first...

The connection between Judaism and Israel has long, deep, historic roots. The holy Torah clearly shows, that the land of Israel belongs to the Jewish people, and that the great fathers of the Jewish nation - Avraham, Yitzhak and Yaakov - lived in "Kenaan" land (which is Israel of nowadays). The modern claim of Arab leaders, that Israel (or, as they call it, "Palestine") belongs historically to the Palestinians, is absolutely false and historians specializing in the Middle east proves that the Jewish people lived in that area much earlier. Further than that, the Muslim religion was founded only 1400 years ago, while historic evidences shows that Judaism was rooted in the land of Israel much earlier...

What is a Mezuzah? The Mezuzah (Me-zu-zah' - accent on last syllable - plural Mezuzot ) is a small case containing a small hand written parchment scroll (called a klaf). The scroll contains the words of the "Shema Yisrael" prayer from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Deuteronomy 11:13. Shema Yisrael means "Hear O Israel." The first sentence declares, "Hear O Israel, the Lord is they God, the Lord is one." It is the Jewish confession of faith. The parchment of the Mezuzah is hand lettered. It is prepared by a specially trained scribe and must be perfect. It should be examined periodically to ensure that it is in order. A Translation of the Text in the Mezuzah "Hear O Israel, G-d our Lord is G-d the Only One You...

Shofars, the Biblical musical instruments plays an important role in Judaism. The Jewish devotees blow this wind instrument for making wonderful musical sounds during the holy celebration of Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashana. Many Jews buy shofars for learning to blow it. But for the lay man purchasing a good one can be pretty interesting and challenging job indeed. Ram's horns are found in many shapes, sizes and designs. The Kudu or Yemenite-shofar and the Ram's Horn are highly popular among people who want to buy these instruments for their Biblical significance. While the longer Yemenite instrument looks really impressive with its shiny and twisted body the smaller Ram's Horn instrument is preferred...