In this section discover items of significance in Jewish life:
Mezuzah
The Mezuzah box shows the Hebrew letter 'Shin' (ש) signifying Almighty God, and speaking of God's kindness, faithfulness and provision. Inside is a scroll containing the words of the ‘Shema’ prayer from the book of Deuteronomy. The Mezuzah reminds us of God every time we enter the door.
Shabbat (Sabbath) Candle sticks
Shabbat candles are lit in Jewish homes by the wife / mother on Friday evenings to welcome in the light and peace of the Sabbath. These ones were from a gift from a mother to her daughter in 1939.
The greeting Shabbat Shalom (Hebrew) or Gud Shabbos (Yiddish) is shared.
Kiddush Cups
These silver wine cups are used for celebrating the arrival of the Sabbath, These ones, made in Birmingham in 1908, were given to a bride and groom at their Wedding. Wine symbolises life and joy. The greeting L'khayim - To Life - is shared
Challah
Blessings are given over the candles, the wine and then the sweet platted challah bread.
Kippah (Hebrew) / Yarmulke (Yiddish) Skull Cap
The kippah is worn as a sign of respect during prayers. Some devout Jews will wear a Kippah at all times as a sign of their devotion.
Tallit (Hebrew) / Tallis (Yiddish) Prayer Shawl
The tallit, with it's Tzitzit fringes is worn during prayer. It speaks of us placing ourselves under God's covering. We wear the tzitzit fringes as reminders of God's presence as instructed in the Book of Numbers 15:37-41
Menorah 7-Branched Candlestick
The seven-branch candlestick is a reminder of the golden candlestick which once stood in the Temple in Jerusalem. It is a symbol of Judaism.
Menorah on the Arch of Titus in Rome
The menorah taken from Jerusalem by the Roman soldiers of Titus in the year 70 is shown on the honorary arch constructed in Rome in the year 81 of the Common Era.
Chanukah - The Festival of Lights and of Dedication
Chanukah celebrates the rededication of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem after overcoming the Greek Empire which had occupied the land and desecrated the Temple. The festival is celebrated for 8 days remembering the miracle of deliverance
Chanukiah 9-Branched Candlestick
This Hanukkiah 9-branch candlestick is made from Jerusalem stone in honour of Jewish people rededicating the temple. There is one candle for each day of the festival, plus one Shamash (servant) candle which is used to light them.
Dreidel Spinning Game
The dreidel game is played at Chanukah, often with chocolate counters
Shofar Ram's horn trumpet
Used to call the people to God and to announce Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year