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2.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A JEWISH HOUSEHOLD July 01
It would be possible to spend a fortune on Judaica items to
enrich your life: wine cups, candleholders, books, Seder plates, artwork,
etc. All of these types of
items seem to indicate that this is a Jewish household, or Jewish people
live here. Through the ages,
famous artists have invested their talents in creating masterpieces of
Judaica, objects of Jewish art and treasures.
I believe that the most basic household symbol in Judaism is the mezuzah.
The mezuzah itself can be costly and ornate, or simple and
quite affordable. It can be
made of sterling silver with delicate carvings or it can be made out of
hand painted ceramic. Regardless,
the mezuzah is placed on the outside doorpost of the home.
It distinguishes a Jewish home and is a visible sign to all who
enter that a sense of Jewish identity and commitment exist there.
The mezuzah is to be a “witness” that this is a Jewish
household. Inside the casing
is a scroll with Scriptures from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Deuteronomy
11:13-21, this is the “testimony” of those who live in this home (It
is what is on the inside that counts!).
Upon affixing the mezuzah, prayers are recited and blessings
are proclaimed over the household, the occupants and all who enter.
Whenever we leave or re-enter our home, we are reminded Who really
lives here. For me, it is a
good reminder to keep my thoughts on the L-rd and my attitude right!
I am a “calendar person.”
I use my calendar to keep track of dates, upcoming events,
appointments, thoughts for the day and even journal entries.
I like to know where everyone is and where everyone is supposed to
be. During the month of July,
I usually evaluate last year’s events and plan for the coming year.
As a family, our “world” revolves around the calendar.
This is a good thing because one of the characteristics of a Jewish
household/community is that we have our own special calendar.
If you would like to order your new Jewish calendar, you can
contact Kar-Ben Copies 1-800-4KARBEN (they have a wide selection of
children’s books too). Also,
LEDERER 1-800-410-7367 has a Jewish calendar that includes the Torah
readings, which I use for my weekly devotions (They have many other
Judaica items and books as well).
Beginning now, we are in the planning stages for our High Holy
Day season. We are preparing
for our services and other events that will help to make the upcoming
Feasts more meaningful. You
can check out the Events section of our web site to find out more details.
Throughout this month I will be seeking the Scriptures and
studying reference materials relating to the Fall Feasts of the L-rd.
Each year, I learn something new and am excited by what G-d reveals
to me. Over the next few
months I hope to share with you some of my insights.
Love and blessings,
Shari
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