CHEDER Meaning and
Definition
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Cheder, also spelled heder or kheder, is a Hebrew term that refers to a traditional Jewish elementary school where young children typically learn the Hebrew alphabet and gain a basic knowledge of the Hebrew language, as well as study Jewish texts such as the Torah. The word "cheder" literally translates to "room" in Hebrew, reflecting the typical small, intimate physical setting of these schools.
Hederim (the plural form of cheder) have a long history dating back to ancient times and continue to play a significant role in the Jewish educational system. Historically, chederim were primarily attended by boys, while girls often received education at home. However, contemporary chederim are coeducational and cater to both boys and girls.
Cheder provides an early foundation for Jewish education and offers a space where children can engage in religious, cultural, and linguistic learning. Students are introduced to Jewish customs and traditions, learn to recite prayers, and develop skills in reading sacred texts. Nowadays, cheder also incorporates secular subjects such as math, science, and language arts, allowing students to acquire a well-rounded education.
Cheder serves as an essential institution for the transmission of Jewish cultural and religious heritage from one generation to the next. It reinforces communal identity and fosters a deep connection to Jewish traditions and values. The cheder experience often forms the basis for further religious education, such as attending yeshivas (higher learning institutions) or engaging in advanced Jewish studies.
Common Misspellings for CHEDER
- xheder
- vheder
- fheder
- dheder
- cgeder
- cbeder
- cneder
- cjeder
- cueder
- cyeder
- chwder
- chsder
- chdder
- chrder
- ch4der
- ch3der
- cheser
- chexer
- checer
- chefer
Etymology of CHEDER
The word "cheder" (also spelled "cheder" or "chedar") originates from Yiddish and Hebrew. It first emerged in Yiddish, a language spoken by Ashkenazi Jews, and later entered Hebrew.
In Yiddish, the word "cheder" (טשעדער) means "room" or "chamber". It refers to the traditional Jewish primary school for young boys, where they were taught religious texts and basic subjects. The Yiddish word likely derived from the Old High German word "zedar", which means "room" or "cellar".
The Hebrew word "cheder" (חֶדֶר) is related to the Yiddish term and means "room" or "chamber" as well. In modern Hebrew, it is used to refer to a small room or any enclosed space.
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