Wholly Jewish: Noa: The Beauty of Taking Up Space
Why do we bless our children on Shabbat?
It is a Jewish custom for parents to bless their children on Shabbat.
Why do we say a blessing over the challah?
Jewish tradition calls for a b’rachah (blessing) expressing thanks to God before eating any food. It represents a recognition that people owe a measure of gratitude to God for providing food for all living things
Why is it traditional to use two challot on Shabbat?
Tradition holds that two whole challot should be used on Shabbat as a remembrance of the double portion of manna that fell in the desert so that no Jew should have to gather food on Shabbat (Exodus 16:22-32).
I have a chai pendant that I love because it was a bat mitzvah gift. But what does “chai” mean and why is it such a popular Jewish symbol?
What does chai mean, and why is it such an important Jewish symbol?
Why do some Jews say “l'chayim” when making a toast? What does the word actually mean?
“L'chayim,” means “to life,” and is a classic Jewish toast.
Why do Jews give gifts and charitable donations in multiples of 18?
What is the significance of the number 18 in Judaism?
What is a Hamsa? Is it a Jewish Symbol, a Middle Eastern Symbol, or Something Else?
The hamsa is a palm-shaped symbol historically used by both Jews and Muslims in Arab countries as an amulet to ward off evil forces, particularly the “evil eye.”
How Are Hebrew Names Formatted?
We talk about the customary format for Jewish or Hebrew names, plus options for individuals who do not use gendered designations.
What is an appropriate honorarium for the rabbi or cantor who performs our wedding?
Wedding honoraria vary widely by geography and circumstance, so it’s not possible to give a definitive answer.