Judaica

After God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, he took them on a journey through the wilderness to Canaan, Promised Land. However, before they entered Canaan, God established a Covenant with them, and the Ten Commandments are the terms of this Covenant.

According to scripture, the Ark of the Covenant is an ornate chest - made from acacia wood and covered in gold, with a lid cover, that housed the two tables of the Law given to Moses by God at Mount Sinai.

Biblical Feasts were given to the Israelites as a series of reminders of their redemption from Egypt but also as a foreshadowing of the plan of redemption and Jesus’ significant role in our salvation. As outlined in Leviticus, these are the seven Biblical Feasts:

A shofar is an ancient musical instrument used as a trumpet that is usually derived from the horns of different animals such as rams and sheep. These instruments were used to sound the battle cry, indicate alarm, and have multiple purposes on special days and special occasions.

God used the Tzitzit as a sign of sanctification for ancient Israel. It was his way of setting them apart from the other nations. It was a continuous sign to them and to the world that God had called them to be different.

Trumpets in the Bible were generally used for grand pronouncements and pre-empted great news. As we read the story of the fall of Jericho, we see that those marching around the walls daily blew trumpets, which pre-empted the fall.

Prayer shawls or Tallits are very symbolic of Jewish worship and are special garments that are worn when participating in the service of God and in prayers. These shawls are intended to inspire awe and reverence for God and are not just everyday wear.

When one attends a wedding, bar mitzvah or a family engagement, one usually brings whatever pleases him or her or what he or she thinks is appropriate for the person. There are certain traditional gifts that are commonly given in Israel or that family members usually give to the guest and that have special significance.

The Jewish population of Israel holds a wide diversity of attitudes toward the traditions and religious observance. Israeli's today vary greatly in their lifestyles and religious practices, something that is affirmed in Jewish ceremonial objects. These objects, as well as some gifts, have a very special meaning for Christians also.