Would kosher and other food restrictions be considered as contributions by Judaism?
A question from a reader: I need to double-check for a project on Judaism. Thanks!
Teddy Bear with judaism, patriotism, international t-shirt
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7 inch tall soft teddy bear with personalized white t-shirt…. More >>
What happens if a Palestinian decides they want to convert to Judaism?
A question from a reader: If a Palestinain in Israel/or Palestinian territories decides for some reason they want to convert to Judaism and be an Israeli what happens? Are they accepted at all or turned down because of their background?
The Importance Of The Menorah To Jewish Faith
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 in our lives. With seven different branches, one for each day of the week, the menorah represents a continuing connection with God throughout the entire week.
The Hanukkah Menorah
Despite the importance of the standard menorah in Jewish culture, more widely known in the United States is the Hanukkah menorah, also known as a Hanukiah. This version of the menorah features a total of nine arms, four on each side with an elevated arm in the center. The elevated center branch is known as the Shamash, and it is used to light the other branches.
The Hanukiah represents the miracle of the burning oil following the successful Jewish uprising against Antiochus, led by the Maccabees. With only enough scared oil to light the holy menorah for one day, they feared the menorah would burn out. However, the oil miraculously lasted for eight days, which is the length of time required to make new, pure, ritual olive oil. Therefore the menorah never went out, and the occasion is permanently remembered with the celebration of the eight day long festival of Hanukkah.
Why Wear a Menorah Pendant?
As a result of the strong connection between Jewish culture and faith and the menorah, menorah pendants are very popular. Menorah jewelry most commonly features the standard, seven-armed menorah, however Hanukiahs are also featured in some jewelry pieces.
Outside of the Star of David, there isn’t any symbol that is more intertwined with Judaism than the menorah. Wearing a necklace with a menorah pendant is therefore an excellent way to showcase your connection with Judaism and your relationship with God. If the standard menorah represents the every day presence of God in our lives, there is hardly a better way to take that to heart than to wear a menorah everywhere you go.
By wearing a pendant with a nine-branched Hanukiah you would be showcasing the fighting spirit and the long, storied and turbulent history of the Jewish people. The successful uprising of the Maccabees against Antiochus is yet another time in history when the Jewish people had their backs against the wall and were forced to fight and scrap for their survival. A Hanukiah pendant is an excellent way to remember that occasion and honor the obstacles that Judaism has had to overcome.
92Y-Alan Dershowitz vs. Dennis Prager: The Left, the Right and Judaism in America
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Two of the nation’s most provocative voices on issues surrounding Judaism and the Middle East conflict come together. Alan Dershowitz is the Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School. His recent books include Rights From Wrong, The Case for Israel and The Case for Peace. Dennis Prager is one of America’s most influential radio talk show hosts, columnists and speakers and the author of, most recently, The Nine Questions People Ask about Judaism. Moderated by D… More >>
92Y-Alan Dershowitz vs. Dennis Prager: The Left, the Right and Judaism in America
Torah Portions
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Devoted to helping people make meaningful connections to Shabbat and Judaism by bribing the stomach with food before filling the brain with ideas.Kindle blogs are fully downloaded onto your Kindle so you can read them even when you’re not wirelessly connected. And unlike RSS readers which often only provide headlines, blogs on Kindle give you full text content and images, and are updated wirelessly throughout the day…. More >>
What is the position of Judaism on spiritual warfare?
A question from a reader: Christianity teaches that there is spiritual warfare unseen around us. Does Judaism believe in spiritual warfare? I really think that with terrible events like the Holocaust; there is an unseen battle raging between God and his angels and Satan and his demons. Thoughts?
What is the Jewish Commandment to educate young people in Judaism?
A question from a reader: Is there a specific Jewish Commandment (one of the 613) that says that Jews shall educate their young in the ways of Judaism. If so what is the number and text?
Children’s Judaica — Get Your Kids Excited About Judaism!
When most people think of Judaica, they picture sterling silver menorahs, Kiddush cups, Seder plates, and books, books, books. Of course, all of these items fall under the Judaica umbrella, but it’s important to remember the Judaica products designed specifically for children! From toys to books and media to decorated Yarmulkes, children’s Judaica can be a great way to get young people excited about their religion.
Young children can beef up on their knowledge of Jewish traditions with simple and fun toys designed just for them. For example, Aleph-Bet’s magnetic board and letters are colorful, easy tools created to familiarize children with the Jewish alphabet. Additionally, Kidkraft produces plastic holiday dinners themed around typical Passover, Rosh Hashana, and Shabbat meals – allowing children to learn about Jewish traditions while indulging in their love to imitate the “grown ups.”
Books, DVDs, and music are likewise fantastic resources to connect children with their faith. Some books are primarily informative, such as the Rabbi Mordecai Plaut’s text “6 Constant Mitzvos – A Young Child’s Guide to Faith and Belief,” as well as “A First Book of Jewish Bible Stories” by Julie Downing. These will help your child understand what it means to be Jewish, in both past and present contexts. For some lighter reading, consider Rebecca Klempner’s “A Dozen Daises for Raizy – A Shavous Story” and Yael Mermelstein’s “A Car That Goes Far.” Both of these books provide whimsical stories that encourage sharing and generosity.
Music is another outstanding aspect of children’s Judaica, whether you plan to enjoy it as a family gathered around the stereo, or simply in the background as you drive your children to a soccer meet. For more than 30 years, the popular 613 Torah Avenue series has enchanted children and adults alike. Each volume follows the main character, Chaim, in a different environment, telling the story through alternating sketches and songs. 613 Torah Avenue features melodies from traditional Jewish tunes, in addition to drawing from folk and modern music – sounds like the perfect recipe for a diverse, educational experience in song!
As for DVDs, children of all ages love the Agent Emes series, which explores fundamental Jewish concepts as encountered by the lovable title character. The first video, for example, follows Agent Emes as he tries to save Rosh Hashana from the evil Dr. Lo Tov, who has attempted to tarnish the ram’s horns. Children are on the edge of their seats as this compelling mystery unravels, all the while learning about shofar, kosher habits, and one of our religion’s most important holidays.
Another way to get children enthusiastic about their Jewish heritage is through their wardrobe. It’s easy to find a Judaica store stocked with hand-painted products featuring some of popular culture’s most beloved characters. For example, children can attend temple wearing suede or velvet yarmulkes decorated with images of Bob the Builder, Batman, Scooby Doo, Star Wars characters, and more. Or for something less commercial, children’s kippahs are also available with paintings of dinosaurs, trains, and even the flag of Israel. Similarly, you can make wearing Tzitzits fun by selecting garments featuring the same whimsical adornments.
So, next time you’re shopping a Judaica store for a new Kiddush cup, take a moment to remember the little ones at home.