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by: JacobLumbroso
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The Kiddush cup is a common symbol of Shabbat (i.e. the Jewish Sabbath). The purpose of it is connected to the recitation of Kiddush. The Hebrew word Kiddush is derived from the Hebrew word Kedushah, which means holiness, separation, or distinction. The recitation of Kiddush marks the special nature of the Sabbath.

In traditional Judaism, the Sabbath is considered to be set apart from the rest of the days of the week. The Torah commands "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy." Kiddush is a ceremony which marks the holiness of the Sabbath. The Talmud understands this to means that the holiness of the Sabbath must be stated verbally.

Reciting or singing it is considered a positive commandment or mitzvah. Men and women are obligated to recite it, though in a married household, the husband will recite it. While reciting it is the most important element, a custom from the early rabbinic period sees the act of sanctification as being tied to saying blessing for a glass of wine before the evening meal. The drinking of wine, in addition to some additional paragraphs makes up what is known as the Friday evening Kiddush.

According to the Talmud, Kiddush can be traced back to the time of the Great Assembly. The existence of discussions dating from the first century of the Common Era on the subject of Kiddush make it clear that the ritual is ancient.

On Friday evening, two loaves of bread are laid on the table in memory of the double portion of manna that was gathered on Friday. For most communities, there is no true Kiddush except at the place where the meal is eaten. Some communities to pronounce Kiddush at the end of the evening service in the synagogue.

Although the Talmud states that strong alcoholic drinks other than wine are not "ideal"for the recitation of the Kiddush , such drinks, out of necessity, once took the place of wine in some northeastern European Jewish communities. For most communities it is better if wine is not available, to pronounce the Kiddush over the Challah bread than to substitute beer or other alcoholic drink.

It is customary to recite Genesis. 2: 1-3, the account of the Sabbath of Creation, before reciting Kiddush in keeping the Talmudic dictum that one who recites it makes himself, in a sense, a partner with God in the work of creation.

A Kiddush cup is used in a variety of other ceremonies where drinking wine is appropriate. These includes Havdalah (the ceremony demarcating the end of the Sabbath from the new week), as well as at weddings ceremonies.

About the Author

Jacob Lumbroso writes articles on Jewish History, foreign cultures, and Judaism. For Silver Shabbat Kiddush Cups or other Jewish rituals related to the Sabbath, visit http://www.judaicaquest.com

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