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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.

The Sabbath is considered holy or set apart from the rest of the days of the week. The Bible states "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy." Kiddush then is a ceremony and prayer in which the holiness of the Sabbath or of a holiday is proclaimed. According to the Talmud this means that its holiness must be recognized in speech during the day.

Reciting it is considered a positive commandment. Men and women are obligated to recite it. While the recitation is the most important element, a custom dating from the early rabbinic period sees the Sabbath as being sanctified over a glass of wine before the evening meal. The drinking of wine, in addition to the recitation of some additional paragraphs makes up 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 Challah are laid on the table in memory of the double portion of manna that was gathered on Friday. For most communities, Kiddush can only be recited at the place where the meal is to be eaten. Some communities to pronounce Kiddush at the end of the evening service in the synagogue.

Although the Talmud states that strong drink other than wine is improper for the Kiddush, they often out of necessity, took the place of wine in many northeastern European Jewish communities. It is regarded as more appropriate to recite the Kiddush over the bread than to substitute beer or brandy if wine is not accessible.

It is customary to recite the Biblical passage of Genesis. 2: 1-3, which details the act of creation, before reciting Kiddush. This is in keeping with the Talmudic dictum that one who recites it makes himself, in a sense, a partner with God in the act 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 history, foreign cultures, and Judaism. For Silver Shabbat Kiddush Cups or other Jewish symbols related to the Shabbat, visit http://www.judaicaquest.com

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