🍷 Kiddush

Kiddush is the Jewish blessing said over a cup of wine on Shabbat and holidays. The word “kiddush” means “sanctification”: it sanctifies the day of rest. The blessing is said before the meal, usually on Friday evening and on Saturday daytime.

The person leading the kiddush takes a cup of wine, says the blessing over the wine and the blessing for the day. Then he drinks, and often others take a sip too. Wine is here a symbol of joy and celebration. Red or white wine is used for kiddush, and sometimes grape juice.

The wine for kiddush is usually kosher, meaning made under special rules of Judaism. It must be produced and handled by observant Jews, and permitted materials are used in processing. Kosher wine is made in many countries.

Kiddush is part of Jewish culture and tradition, in which wine plays an important role. It is an example of how wine is tied to ritual and community. Alcohol is for adults, and in the rite the meaning and the blessing matter, not the amount.