Explore the rich world of Judaica, from ritual objects to meaningful gifts. Learn about the history, symbolism, and use of traditional items that bring Jewish practice, heritage, and beauty into everyday life and special occasions.
You’re probably familiar with the 9-branched menorah used on Hanukkah, which has historically been made using various shapes and materials, but did you know there is another, even older and more traditional type of Jewish candleholder? That would be the 7-branched menorah – inspired by the iconic candelabra that was described in the Hebrew Bible […]
Since the October 7th massacre in southern Israel, the entire country has been mobilized to defeat Hamas, free the hostages, and defend our homeland. One unique way that civilians have been helping the war effort has been by hand-tying tzitzit – intricate, Jewish prayer fringes – onto military undershirts for tens of thousands of enlisted […]
There are many rituals that help us bring in Shabbat on a Friday night: lighting candles, singing during Kabbalat Shabbat services, drinking wine and eating challah, and enjoying a festive meal with family and friends. Many of us are familiar with these traditions and incorporate them into our weekend. But where do these rituals come from? When did […]
It’s hard to think of something more iconic and more uniquely Jewish than lighting Shabbat candles to welcome in the Day of Rest. Historically, ornate Shabbat candlesticks have been among the most popular and traditional gifts for a young woman as she reached the age of Bat Mitzvah or on the occasion of her wedding. And […]
Many people are familiar with the image of Jew praying in the mornings wearing a tallit, but this is only one type of tallit. What that type of prayer shawl, the tallit gadol (large tallit), looks like may be more classic or iconic, but is only one part of the picture. The tallit katan is […]
Did you know Israel has its own iconic stone, used by Jews in the Jerusalem area for thousands of years till this day? You might have heard of “Jerusalem Stone” or seen Judaica items made out of it – read on to learn its long history and significance in the Land of Israel! What is Jerusalem […]
Shabbat Kiddush is one of the most recognizable and beloved mitzvot among Jews of all ages and backgrounds. With a rich history and colorful traditions, new and old, there are unending ways to enrich the Kiddush experience. Learn more about the origins and practices!
The type of Jewish prayer that may stand out the most is tefilla, also commonly discussed with the Yiddish word ‘daven’, is the sort of prayer one does in a synagogue, three times daily. This is laid out in a siddur (prayer book) with each time of day Shacharit, Mincha, and Maariv / Aravit, or […]
Questions to Inspire Discussion at the Seder Table Some people find that going through the Haggadah leaves all the talking to the leader. Print this out and get your friends, children, and relatives talking about Torah with these questions. None of these have only one answer. Some answers have been provided at the end. 8 […]
What to Eat, and Not to Eat, on the Seder Plate Anyone who has been at the Passover Seder knows that the food items—for the most part—are not only symbolic, but also to be ingested. This means that the significance of each item is both stated during the Seder, as well as tasted. The […]
What makes a kiddush cup? Does it have to be a specific material? Can any cup be used as a kiddush cup? Read on for everything you need to know! What makes a Kiddush Cup A kiddush cup is used for the kiddush ritual: sanctification prayers that are said over wine or grape juice at the start of shabbat and
Are you prepared for the Passover Seder? Give yourself time to find the perfect Pesach Seders items. The holiday will be here before you know it. You may also be looking for the best in kosher for Passover wines, and Israeli treats. Keep checking back at our ever-expanding repertoire before the holiday!
