Glossary

One’s personal intention or direction of the heart when praying or performing mitzvot; the intentions and devotions individuals bring to their own prayer; often juxtaposed with keva.

"Against the evil eye; without the evil eye" (Yiddish); an interjection often uttered after mention of a positive; for example, "My grandson grew three inches over the summer, Ken Ayin Hara.

"Rend;" The traditional act of tearing a garment as an expression of grief; Many contemporary Jews wear a torn black ribbon during mourning to sympolize the torn garment.

Traditional Jewish marriage contract; plural: ketubot

Fixed prayer; the set structure of Jewish liturgy; often juxtaposed with kavanah.

Literally, “honoring father and mother;” one of the Ten Commandments; understood to refer to the obligation to show honor to and care for one’s parents and grandparents

"Sanctification;" blessing recited or chanted over wine (or grape juice), emphasizing the holiness of Shabbat and festivals.

Cup used for blessing wine on Shabbat, festivals and other events, i.e., weddings.

"Sanctification of the womb's opening;" modern ceremony celebrating the birth of a first child.