Kiddush (Hebrew: קידוש, literally, "sanctification")
is a blessing recited over wine or grape juice to
sanctify the Shabbat or a Jewish holiday. The Torah
refers to two requirements concerning Shabbat - to
"keep it" and to "remember it" (shamor and zakhor).
Jewish law therefore requires that Shabbat be
observed in two respects. One must "keep it" by
refraining from thirty-nine forbidden activities,
and one must "remember it" by making special
arrangements for the day, and specifically through
the kiddush ceremony. Reciting kiddush before the
meal on the eve of Shabbat and Jewish holidays is
thus regarded as a commandment from the Torah (as it
is explained by the Oral Torah).
Reciting kiddush
before the morning meal on Shabbat and holidays,
however, is a requirement of rabbinic origin.
Kiddush is not usually recited at the third meal on
Shabbat, although Maimonides was of the opinion that
wine should be drunk at this meal as well.
Mile
Chai We support Israel. We are
your online resource for Kiddush Cups, Jewish
gifts and Judaica, and music and more. Passover
Seder Plates, Matzah Covers, and much more www.milechai.com
Aharon's Jewish
Books and Judaica
600 South Holly Street Suite 103
Denver, Colorado 80246
303-322-7345
800-830-8660
Judaic Online
store that provides a wide selection of all
types of Judaica, Jewish gifts, Jewish books,
Jewish ritual items and more www.judaic.com