The Sabbath is the day of rest, so that means we need to prepare ahead of time to make our Sabbath experience all it can be. One easy way to add some positive new energy to the Sabbath experience is through the variety of Judaica items which are an integral part of the day, from the beginning to the end. From classic traditional to artistic, modern styles, everyone has their own taste. Here are a few suggestions to help get you get in touch with yours:
• Candlesticks: The ceremonial lighting of the candles signals the beginning of the Sabbath and for centuries, Jewish artisans all over the world have been creating decorative Shabbat candlesticks to help families bring the joyous light of the Sabbath into their homes. While traditional candlesticks are made in sterling silver, more modern styles include aluminum, brass, glass, wood, and more.
• Kiddush Cups: One of the most iconic pieces of Judaica, Kiddush cups some in a wide array of designs. Along with more traditional silver designs, today you have at your fingertips historical replicas from the Israel Museum, stunning enameled pewter cups, as well as a wide selection of exquisite modern Kiddush cup designs form Israel’s most prominent artists, such as Yair Emanuel, Lily Shohat and Avner Agayof.
• Netilat Yedayim: After Kiddush is the ceremonial washing of the hands using a washing vessel, a process called “netilat yedayim.” Choose from a beautiful gallery of washing vessels, including modern metallic designs, decorative hand painted wood, silver with Jerusalem motifs, enameled and jeweled pewter and much more. Purify in style!
• Challah Boards: Time to eat! A challah board or tray is one of the centerpieces of every Sabbath table. Stunning traditional and contemporary designs and styles include silver plated or hand painted wood with Jerusalem motif, stainless steel with glass or Swarovski stones, Jerusalem stone a well as painted glass, which are some of the most beautiful challah boards anywhere in the world. Don’t forget a stylish challah cover too!
• Salt Holders: On the Sabbath it is customary to dip the bread in salt, so why not turn it into an opportunity to add some more stylish beauty to the table. Yair Emanuel has a special line of exquisite ceramic salt and pepper holders hand painted with colorful designs and Jewish motifs, while Dorit Judaica also has a gorgeous collection of unique salt and pepper shakers as well as salt dishes for easy dipping!
• Havdalah: A great way to beautify the ceremony marking the end of the Sabbath with a host of exquisite Havdalah sets, which include the cup with a candle and spice holder. Also, check out our gorgeous Yair Emanuel spice boxes. The classic havdalah candles and spices themselves are available here as well.
By beautifying and enhancing these moments through any of these special items, we arouse in ourselves the necessary emotional channels to help us connect to the powerful holiness inherent in this day. Your Sabbath will never be the same.
