The word "kiddush" is a Hebrew term used in Jewish religious services to sanctify the Sabbath or other holy days. It is pronounced "ki-DOOSH" and spelled with two D's because the second syllable contains a stressed vowel. The first syllable is pronounced with a "k" sound, represented by the IPA symbol [k]. The second syllable begins with a "d" sound, represented by the IPA symbol [d]. The final syllable is pronounced with a "sh" sound, represented by the IPA symbol [ʃ].
Kiddush is a Hebrew term that is primarily associated with Jewish religious observance. It is a noun that refers to a specific Jewish ritual performed during religious meals, particularly on Shabbat and holidays. The word "kiddush" itself means "sanctification" or "holiness" in Hebrew, signifying the act of setting apart or consecrating something as sacred.
In practice, kiddush refers to a special blessing, recited over a cup of wine or grape juice, to sanctify and commemorate the holy day. This ritual is typically performed before the festive meal, serving as a symbolic reminder of the sacred nature of the occasion and marking its beginning. The kiddush prayer includes recitations and blessings, often led by a religious leader or head of the household, emphasizing the sanctity of the day and expressing gratitude to God for the gift of the Sabbath or holiday.
Beyond its religious significance, kiddush also holds cultural and social importance for Jewish communities. It serves as a means of bringing families and friends together, fostering a sense of communal unity and spiritual connection. The kiddush cup, often passed around to be shared by participants, symbolizes the shared joy and unity of the occasion.
Overall, kiddush is a Hebrew term that encompasses the religious blessing, recited over wine, which initiates and sanctifies a Jewish meal, emphasizing its sacredness and communal aspect.
The word "kiddush" is of Hebrew origin and is derived from the Hebrew root "קדש" (pronounced "kadesh"). In Hebrew, "קדש" means "to sanctify" or "to make holy". "Kiddush" is a noun form of the root and is commonly used to refer to the Jewish ritual of sanctifying the Sabbath or a holiday, typically done by reciting a blessing over wine or grape juice. The word has been borrowed into various languages and is widely recognized in Jewish communities around the world.