General Jewish Facts

Question 1

Menora

Answer 1

A Menora is a seven branched candle holder used in Jewish households. During Hanukkah a nine branched candelabra is used. It is a traditional symbol of Judaism and the word Menorah means light or lamp.

Question 2

Shabbat

Answer 2

Shabbat is celebrated on the Friday night to Saturday - specifically it ends when the first star appears on Saturday night or is starts 18mins before sundown on Friday evening and ends 18 mins before sundown on Saturday evening. It is Judaism’ day of rest at the end of the week. They remember the story of the creation of heaven and earth. During this time you cannot work or play, you are meant to rest as God did. The traditional food is Challah bread, and a Shabbat Feast.

Question 3

What is Challah bread?

Answer 3

Challah bread is a special braided bread eaten on Shabbat. It is typically eaten in the evening and on Jewish holidays on but not on The Passover.

Question 4

Shabbat Candles

Answer 4

Shabbat candles are lit before sunset on Friday to welcome in Shabbat. It is traditionally done by the oldest woman of the household. In Yiddish, the lighting of the candles is known as licht bentschen meaning light blessing.

Question 5

Kiddush

Answer 5

Kiddh is one of the central blessings of Shabbat. It is a blessings said over a cup of wine every Friday night and Saturday morning before the Traditional Shabbat meals. In English Kiddush means ‘an act of sanctification.’

Question 6

Havadalah

Answer 6

Havdalah is a Jewish religious ceremony that welcomes in the week. The ritual involves lighting a special candle, blessing a cup of wine, and smelling sweet spices.

Question 7

What are the 5 books of Moses?

Answer 7

The five books in the Torah are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy

Question 8

Why do Jewish families bless children during Shabbat?

Answer 8

This blessing asks God to bless, protect, and comfort the children and so they know how to carry on those traditions.