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GUIDE TO JEWISH RELIGIOUS PRACTICES AT LIONS GATE Rabbi Lewis John Eron, Ph.D. Director of Religious Services 856-679-2207 June 14, 2007 PRESERVING DIGNITY Many elders have a sense of worthlessness and low self-esteem—lost dignity—when they can’t function as well as before and must depend on caregivers. Every bit of advice in this book is written with your long-living person’s dignity in mind. (See Chapters 6, 13, and 23 for information on how to maintain dignity in the face of particular situations, such as being spoon-fed, being incontinent, or dying.) You can help maintain your elder’s dignity with the following strategies: *Squat down or pull up a chair so that you’re on the same eye level, especially if he’s in a wheelchair (to avoid being in a “one-up” position). *Always try to sit at a good conversational distance. *Invite your elder to help with chores (for example, folding laundry, watering plants, bringing in the mail). *Show appreciation for her possessions, opinions, and preferences. *Encourage him to make choices and offer input into his own care. *Never insist on helping; only offer to help. *Sit or stand within three (3) feet and face the person. Never yell from another room. *Make sure that your face is in the light. By doing so, you’ll facilitate lip reading. *Understand that some words are more difficult to hear than other words. For example, it’s hard to distinguish between, c, d, e, t, and v. *Enunciate as clearly as possible. Expressions like “didjaeat” or “halzitgoin” are difficult to understand. *Appreciate that some letters and numbers are move problematic than others. For example, if letters and numbers seem to cause a problem in situations like taking down phone numbers, say “M as in Mary, B as in boy”. Say each number separately. Instead of “56, say five six”. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 2 INTRODUCTION Shalom - - Welcome to Lions Gate. It is always exciting and, sometimes, overwhelming to start a new job. There is so much to learn and, it seems, so little time to learn it. You will be meeting many new people - - co-workers, supervisors, residents, residents’ family members, and learning how to become part of the Lions Gate community. Lions Gate is part of the greater family of agencies that make up the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. Although we welcome residents from all backgrounds, our roots are in the Jewish community of Southern New Jersey. Jewish traditions are important to us. Jewish holidays, customs, and practices are part of the Lions Gate atmosphere. You may not be familiar with Jewish tradition and practices. This pamphlet is to provide a very basic introduction to Judaism in general as well as general guidelines on Jewish practice at Lions Gate. It is based on the materials we used at the Jewish Geriatric Home.* They have been combined and modified to meet the expected needs here at our new continuing care retirement community, Lions Gate. It is my hope that this pamphlet will be helpful to you. Please contact me for additional information on Judaism and Jewish practice. If you have any specific questions pertaining to Jewish practice and your position and function at Lions Gate, please speak with your supervisor. Rabbi Lewis John Eron, Ph.D. Director of Religious Services Lions Gate 856-679-2207 *Rabbi Mel Glatt, “Religious Policies and Procedures for the Jewish Geriatric Home” and The Philadelphia Board of Rabbis, “Jewish Practices and Procedures for Nursing Homes and Long Term Care Facilities” (1998) Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 3 ABOUT THE JEWISH RELIGION The religion of the Jewish people is called “Judaism”. It is an ancient faith tracing its beginnings to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah. These great spiritual personalities and their descendants were called Hebrews. At one point in their early history the Hebrews were enslaved in Egypt. They were liberated by Moses who led them for forty (40) years through the wilderness of Sinai. The Hebrews eventually came to the Promised Land of Canaan. There they settled and lived for hundreds of years. The Hebrews were the ancestors of the Jews. Judaism believes in the existence of one (1) God who created the universe and who is the source of all life. The Jewish Bible consists of twenty-four (24) books. Although it is sometimes known as the “Old Testament”, Jews most often refer to it either as “The Bible” (in English) or as the “Tanach” (in Hebrew). In addition to its Bible, the Jewish religion has a vast literature of commentary and interpretation that has developed through its long history. Ethical and moral behavior lie at the heart of Judaism. The spiritual and religious traditions of the Jewish people stress that followers of Judaism and all people must behave ethically and be responsible for their actions. Judaism teaches that everyone is accountable both to other people and to God. A major principle of the Jewish religion is the sacredness of the human being. Every person is a child of God. Every person is endowed with worth and dignity by God. God loves every individual. No person is to be looked upon by us with disdain. No one is to be mistreated, abused, or dealt with in a dishonest manner. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 4 Judaism further teaches that the human body, like the soul, is the handiwork of God. God made our bodies and gave us the responsibility of caring for our bodies during the time that we are alive. It is forbidden, therefore, to do anything which we know will harm, injure, or lead to the destruction of our bodies. Good health habits and proper hygiene are mandated by the Jewish religion. The Jewish religion regulates the daily life of its followers. There are things which the Jewish person is either to do or not to do. This pattern of Jewish living includes everything from prayers to food to relationships with other people. Judaism is a religion of norms, standards, and ideals. In our own lives we are to be trustworthy, forthright, and people of the utmost integrity. We are obligated to make an honest living, support our families, assist those less fortunate than ourselves, and endeavor to make good contributions to society. In regard to the future of humanity, Judaism urges that we never lose our faith that someday this world can be a better and happier place for all in which to live. If others and we will it, war can be abolished forever, prejudice eradicated, and evils like poverty totally ended. A special point must be made here insofar as the Jewish religion and health care. While Judaism has many rituals which are mandatory for its adherents, none of these are to be observed at the expense of a person’s health or well-being. This is to be borne in mind at all times when working at a facility such as Lions Gate. This point will be emphasized several times again in this pamphlet. (adapted from Rabbi Mel Glatt, Religious Policies and Procedures for the Jewish Geriatric Home) Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 5 WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SPECIAL CONCERNS AND SENSITIVITIES OF THE JEWISH COMMUNITY? A) The State of Israel is the homeland of the Jewish people, and, as such, American Jews are concerned with her security and well-being. B) Jews of all backgrounds, because of a history of persecution, are very sensitive to manifestations of anti-Semitism or racism. C) The Jewish community concerns itself with the welfare of Jews throughout the world. D) The Jewish community cares for the well-being of its members and, for their benefit, maintains a variety of social, educational and cultural agencies. JEWISH HOLIDAYS The Jewish Year The Jewish people have their own special calendar. The Jewish calendar is lunar, and has approximately 354 days a year. An extra month, thirty (30) days long, is added every two (2) to three (3) years. The following are the names of the months in the Jewish calendar. Note the approximate month to which they correspond in the regular calendar. JEWISH MONTH SECULAR MONTH (1) Tishri September - October (2) Cheshvan October - November (3) Kislev November - December (4) Tevet December - January (5) Shevat January - February (6) Adar February - March (7) Nisan March - April (8) Iyar April - May Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 6 JEWISH MONTH SECULAR MONTH (9) Sivan May - June (10) Tammuz June - July (11) Av July - August (12) Elul August - September In a Jewish leap year a second Adar is added to the calendar. Within the Jewish calendar there is a series of Holy Days, Festivals, and Minor observances. The following is a brief description of these occasions. What Are The Jewish Holidays And When Do They Occur? THE SABBATH, called SHABBOS, or SHABBAT, is a day markedly different from the other six (6) days of the week. The Sabbath is observed from sundown on Friday afternoon to nightfall on Saturday. In traditional Jewish homes candles are lit every Friday evening, just before the Sabbath begins, as symbol of peace, freedom and the light. Observant Jews refrain from work and businesses and will not travel in a vehicle on the Sabbath. It is important to note that Orthodox Jews (in communities where special rabbinic arrangements have not been made) do not carry anything on their person during the Sabbath, and, therefore may not have any identification in their pockets. Furthermore, since the observant Jew is prohibited from using a mechanical or electrical device on the Sabbath (except in extreme life or death situations) a veritable communications blackout occurs, as far as travel or electronic contact is concerned. *ROSH HASHANAH is the Jewish New Year, which occurs in the fall. The Hebrew words Rosh HaShanah literally mean “the beginning of the year”. Rosh HaShanah is also known as the Day of Remembrance and the Day of Judgement. This two-day festival is celebrated on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which usually falls in September. This holiday also commemorates the birthday of the world. Most Jews celebrate this holiday by attending synagogues. Most Jewish owned shops and businesses are closed. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 7 *YOM KIPPUR, the Day of Atonement, occurs on the tenth (10th) day of Tishrei (September-October), and is the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar. Most Jews spend the entire day in the synagogue fasting and praying, and, as on Rosh HaShanah, their shops and businesses close for the day. Jews seek God’s forgiveness for transgressions committed during the past year. SUKKOT, meaning tabernacles or booths, and considered the festival of Thanksgiving, is celebrated from the 15th to the 23rd day of Tishrei (October). Sukkot is named for the sukkot, the temporary dwelling places erected by the Jewish people during their forty years of wandering in the desert following the exodus from Egypt. It also refers to the temporary huts farmers build in their fields during the busy harvest time. This is a nine-day holiday, during which Jews eat their meals in sukkot (plural of sukkah) constructed on porches, terraces, roofs, or in their backyards. The concluding day of this holiday is known as Simchat Torah. SIMCHAT TORAH, means “rejoicing in the Torah”. On this day, usually in October, Jews celebrate the completion of the annual cycle of the weekly Torah reading and the beginning of a new cycle. Synagogue services include great festivity, much singing and dancing, and in may communities, the gathering of large crowds to observe and participate in the celebration. CHANUKAH (Hanukah) observed for eight (8) days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev (December). Chanukah commemorates the victory of Jews, 2,000 years ago, over the Syrian-Greek regime that had imposed strict restrictions against Jewish religious practices and values. Fought by a small band for three (3) long years against a mighty army, Chanukah was a triumph for religious freedom. A menorah or candelabra is lit every evening in the home to remind us of the great menorah in the Temple of Jerusalem, and the miracles that God made for us at that time. TU BESHEVAT Occurs on the 15th day of the month of Shevat. It is the “New Year of the Trees” and in Israel is associated with reforestation and land reclamation. PURIM, the Feast of Lots, a one-day celebration observed on the 14th of Adar (March), commemorating the rescue of the Jewish communities of Persia in 450 B.C.E. from a planned massacre. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 8 The Purim story is read aloud in synagogues on that day from the biblical Book of Esther. It is a joyous holiday where people dress up in costumes, twirl noisemakers, drink liquor and eat special three-cornered cookies called hamentaschen. *PESACH or PASSOVER is known as the Festival of Freedom, commemorating the exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt, and also as the Holiday of Spring, because of the season. Passover/ Pesach begins on the 15th of Nisan (April), and lasts for eight (8) days (seven (7) for Reform Jews). It is also known as the Festival of Matzah because of the special form of unleavened bread that is eaten during this period. Observant Jews do not eat bread or any products containing leaven or yeast during the eight (8)-day holidays. YOM HASHOAH This is a Jewish calendar occasion, which came into being after World War II. It reminds us of the millions of Jews and other people who were brutally killed by Hitler and the Nazis. It is observed in the month of Nisan. The English name for “Yom HaShoah” is “Holocaust Remembrance Day”. YOM HA-ATZMAUT, Israeli Independence Day, the 5th of Iyar (late April or early May). Jews all over the world gather to celebrate the State of Israel, a county to call their own after 2,000 years. *SHAVUOT, the Festival of Weeks, occurs seven (7) weeks after the first day of Pesach on the sixth and seventh of Sivan (May-June). This is a two-day holiday (one day for Reform Jews). Shavuot is called the holiday of the giving of the Torah in commemoration of the day that Moses received the tablets of the Torah, The Ten Commandments, from God on Mount Sinai. TISHA B’AV, the ninth day of Av (August), commemorates the destruction of the first Temple by the Babylonians in 586 B.C.E. and the burning of the second Temple by the Romans in 70 C.E. Many Jews fast on this solemn day. The Torah itself mandates most of the major holidays. Those marked by an asterisk * have work prohibition similar to the Sabbath. Jewish businesses will be closed and observant Jews will not work. Contact the Board of Rabbis for a calendar of major holidays. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 9 JEWISH DIETARY REGULATIONS Lions Gate maintains a completely Kosher Food Service Program. Kosher means suitable for eating from a Jewish religious standpoint. Kashrut is the name of the Jewish dietary laws. Staff are expected to cooperate completely to help maintain this important part of the Jewish tradition. Briefly, Kosher Dietary Laws include the following requirements: 1) Only beef, veal, lamb and poultry that has been ritually kosher slaughtered and properly koshered may be eaten. 2) Milk, butter, cheese, or any other products made with milk may not be combined with, served with, eaten together with, or cooked (with) in the same utensils as beef, veal, lamb, or poultry. 3) Raw fish, fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee and cereals (grains) are considered neutral (parve) until they are incorporated either into meat or dairy meals. Some cereals (grains) have milk as an added ingredient and may only be served at dairy meals. All products used must have a kosher symbol which further identifies its acceptability. 4) Only fish which have scales and fins are considered Kosher and may be eaten, e.g. flounder, cod, bluefish, tuna, salmon. 5) Meals served at Lions Gate will either be meat or dairy meals. Separate cooking utensils, dishes, silverware, etc. must be maintained for each. Dairy utensils, dishes and silverware are to be used only for dairy; and meat utensils, dishes and silverware only for meat. These may not be mixed. Our kitchen has two (2) completely separate cooking, preparation, and dish washing areas - - one for dairy and one for meat. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 10 Pattern Coded - - Dairy and Meat There are pattern coded place settings for the serving of meat and dairy meals. You will be advised of the correct pattern settings by the Food Service Director, the Executive Chef, or your Department Director, who can also answer any questions regarding these items. No food, dishes, or meal trays are to be left anywhere on the units from one meal serving to another. They must be returned to Dining Service after each meal. No outside foods or beverages can be brought into the various dining rooms, placed on the meal trays, or sent back to Dining Services for disposal. Employee meals are served on disposables in the staff cafeteria. Please be careful to protect the kosher food practices at Lions Gate. If not certain, please ask someone more experienced to advise you. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 11 DIETARY REGULATION FOR LIONS GATE STAFF Everyone who works at Lions Gate is to observe the following rules so that the kosher aspect of the kitchen is maintained. 1) Meals and/or snacks must be eaten only in the staff cafeteria and in no other part of the building 2) If you secure your meal from the Lions Gate Dining Services take it immediately to the staff cafeteria and eat it there. 3) You may bring in your own mean and/or snack from home or from any store but it must be eaten only in the staff cafeteria. 4) The microwave in the staff cafeteria is for your use. 5) Use only the tray, paper and Styrofoam goods, and plastic utensils given to you or available in the staff cafeteria. Do not use any plates or silverware from the Lions Gate kitchen or from the resident’s dining rooms. 6) Utensils used for preparing and serving non-kosher food may not be used for kosher food or vegetables unless cleansed in a specific prescribed manner. Our kitchen has two (2) completely separate cooking, preparation, and dishwashing areas - - one for dairy and one for meat. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 12 Color Coded - - Dairy and Meat There are color and/or pattern coded place settings for the serving of meat and dairy meals. You will be advised of the correct color and/or pattern settings by your Supervisor, who can also answer any questions regarding this item. • No food, dishes, or meal trays are to be left anywhere on the units from one meal serving to another. They must be returned to Dining Services after each meal. No outside foods or beverages can be brought into the various dining rooms, placed on the meal trays, or sent back to Dining Services for disposal. Meals are served on disposables in the staff cafeteria. • Meals served to staff, visitor or guests that leave the Dining Room, must be placed on disposables. Please be careful to protect the kosher food practices of Lions Gate. If not certain, please ask someone more experienced to advise you. EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA Lions Gate has provided an area in which staff will take their rest periods and meal breaks. This area is provided so that employees may take time away from their work to eat, socialize and rest. Lions Gate will not tolerate the disregard of any employee to maintain this area CLEAN and RESPECTABLE. Employees are expected to clean up after themselves prior to leaving the area. This includes: after using the microwave oven, removing unwanted food/beverages from the refrigerator, properly disposing of trash in the receptacles that re provided, cleaning up spills, keeping the sink area clean, keeping the tables clear from crumbs and spills, etc. Employees may purchase meals from Dining Services or bring in their own food. There will be no food eaten anywhere in the building except in the employee cafeteria. Non-Kosher foods are strictly prohibited outside of the cafeteria area. Lions Gate will not permit employees ordering from local food establishments for delivery to the facility. * * Reference to “employee(s)” would include all contracted staff. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 13 SPECIAL CONCERNS FOR PESACH/PASSOVER During the eight (8) days of Passover, leavened products are not eaten. All foods containing flour or grain, which have been allowed to ferment, are considered leaven. These include breads, beer, cake, cookies, cereals, macaroni, spaghetti, noodles, foods containing starch, and beverages containing grain alcohol, etc. Separate sets of utensils are used for food preparation during Passover; disposable paper and plastic ware is acceptable for use during this week. Special kosher for Passover frozen dinners are also available, and, except for breads, many of the above-mentioned products have kosher for Passover counterparts. SHABBAT (Sabbath) and HOLIDAY GUIDELINES FOR LIONS GATE At Lions Gate we wish to maintain the sanctity and the religious spirit of Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, as well as all of the Jewish festivals and commemorations. In order to do this, every department must be fully acquainted with responsibilities and regulations connected with this weekly observance. Note below the special tasks of your department related to the Sabbath as well as those things which are not to be done on the Sabbath under normal circumstances. Keep in mind that in any instance where human life, health or well-being is at stake, any and all Jewish Sabbath rituals and religious prohibitions may be superseded. These guidelines provide a general understanding of how we try to draw on the customs and practices of the Jewish faith to root the Lions Gate community in the Jewish tradition. Specific policies and practices will be determined by the management of Lions Gate. • • • OFFICE The office is to be closed and no business transacted during the Sabbath. No monetary matters are to be handled on behalf of residents. The person in charge of the front desk is not to use any office equipment, i.e., typewriters, duplicating machines, etc. Incoming telephone calls may be answered by the person at the front desk and referred to the appropriate area. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 14 NURSING • Residents who are able to attend Friday and Saturday Sabbath services are to be made ready by nursing for these spiritual times. Nursing is to provide assistants to be present when Sabbath services are held. • Baths are not to be given routinely on the Sabbath. However, if a resident is incontinent or if there is a specific medical reason for giving a bath, it should be done. • Male residents are not to be shaved. • All medications are to be given as usual. • No television, radios, or tape music are to be played on the lounges during that special time when Shabbat services are being held. MEDICAL • Clinics are closed. • No physical therapy is given on the Sabbath, unless deemed necessary for medical reasons and approved by management. • Physicians may and should be contacted when it is believed that a condition exists needing immediate attention. BEAUTY SHOP • The beauty shop is to be closed on the Sabbath. ACTIVITIES • Activities personnel are to assist residents getting to and from Sabbath/Shabbat services. • In conjunction with the Dietary Department, the Activities Department is to assist at Friday afternoon teas and at Saturday morning kiddushes when served. VOLUNTEERS • Volunteers are to provide auxiliary assistance at Sabbath/ Shabbat services. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 15 MAINTENANCE • Only Tasks that are basic or of an emergency nature may be performed on the Sabbath. • No special service companies are to be scheduled for this time except to resolve an emergency situation. • There are to be no deliveries unless deemed necessary by the management. • No painting or carpentry may take place inside or outside the building unless deemed necessary by the management. • There is to be no lawn cutting or trimming of trees or shrubs unless deemed necessary by the management. • During the winter season snow and ice are to be removed from walks and driveways because this constitutes a potential emergency situation. • There is to be no heavy cleaning of residents’ rooms or of other areas in the building, i.e., floor stripping or floor finishing. • The maintenance department is to arrange for the set up of the chapel area for Sabbath services on Fridays and Saturdays. SOCIAL SERVICE • Social Service is not to schedule any meetings with families of current or potential residents on the Sabbath, unless it is deemed that an emergency situation exists and must be resolved. DIETARY • Dietary is to provide tea and cake/cookies on Friday afternoons when requested by the Activities Department. • A traditional Sabbath meal is to be provided for the residents at dinner on Friday nights and at lunch on Saturdays. • Foods are not to be cooked past sundown on Friday nights. • During the Sabbath foods may be reheated. • Reheating is not considered to be actual cooking. • No deliveries are to be received during the entire Sabbath period unless when deemed necessary by the management. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 16 RULES FOR THE OTHER HOLY DAYS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • YOM KIPPUR Traditionally Yom Kippur is a day of fasting and Jews abstain from food and drink. If a resident chooses to fast anytime during the Yom Kippur period, it must be with the permission of his/her physician and strictly monitored by nursing. Business Office is closed. No scheduled activities for residents. Beauty shop is closed. No deliveries (unless deemed necessary by management). Foods are not cooked only warmed and reheated. Residents are not bathed (unless deemed necessary by nursing and medical staff). Male residents are not shaved. Clinics are closed. Medications are given. Maintenance follows same regulations as for the Sabbath. ROSH HASHANAH, PESACH, SHAVUOT, SUKKOT (including Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah) Business office is closed Quiet activities for residents. Beauty shop is closed. No deliveries (unless deemed necessary by the management). Foods may be cooked on these days except when they coincide with the Sabbath. The bathing of residents on these religious occasions is to be reviewed by nursing on an individual basis. The same procedure is to be followed in connection with the shaving of male residents. Clinics are closed. Medications are given. Maintenance follows same regulations as for the Sabbath. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 17 • • • • • CHANUKKAH AND PURIM All regular and normal functions and activities of the home may take place on these days except when any such days coincide with the Sabbath. TISHA BEAV Only dairy meals are to be served to the residents on this occasion. Quiet activities appropriate for a solemn fast day. Appropriate religious programming. Beauty shop is closed. THE REMAINING CALENDAR OCCASIONS • The occasions of “Tu BeShevat”, “Israel Independence Day”, and “Yom Ha-Shoah” or “Holocaust Day”, do not carry with them any restrictions. All regular functions and activities of the home may be carried on as usual. Note on Laundry The laundry department operates continuously throughout the year. This is based on the rationale that clean linens, towels, and garments are absolutely essential to health and wellbeing. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 18 JEWISH GLOSSARY BAR/BAT MITZVAH (Hebrew meaning son/daughter of the commandment) - Special religious ceremony for a boy reaching the age of 13, or a girl at age 12 or 13. The ceremony celebrates reaching the age of religious obligation. CHALLAH - A loaf of braided egg-bread traditionally eaten on Friday night at the start of the Sabbath meal. A motzi or blessing is recited over the challah before it is cut or broken. DAY SCHOOL - Jewish parochial school, grades K-8. Also called yeshiva. HASIDIM (CHASIDM-Hebrew, meaning pious, holy person) - The followers of the Hassidic movement, a religious folk movement., began in the 18th century. The men generally wear beards, long sideline (payes) and black hats and clothing. The women dress modestly in dresses with long sleeves and always have their hair covered. These customs vary from extreme to moderate depending upon the town of origin of their sect. Some dress in current fashion a indistinguishable from the general population. Hasidim follow Orthodox Jewish Practices. HEBREW - The ancient and modern language of the Jewish people. Hebrew is the language of the Jewish Bible (Tanak or “Old Testament”), the Jewish prayerbook (the Siddur), and has served as the literary and scholarly language of the Jewish people over the centuries. Hebrew is also the language of the modern State of Israel. KADDISH (Hebrew, meaning sanctification) - A prayer said by a person in mourning and recited daily at morning and evening services for eleven (11) months following the death of a parent. KIDDUSH - Sanctification of the Sabbath. Every Friday night, prayers are chanted in the home recalling the Creation and the Exodus from Egypt. Blessings of thanks are said over wine and challah. KIPAH - The skull cap worn by most men and some women during religious services, and by most Orthodox Jewish men when not wearing hats. Also called a yarmulke. KOSHER - Food prepared according to Jewish dietary laws. See section on Jewish dietary regulations. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 19 MAGEN DAVID (Hebrew, meaning Shield of David) - A six (6) pointed star, historically identified as the Jewish emblem MATZAH - Unleavened bread, square or round in shape, much like a cracker. Matzah is eaten instead of leavened bread, for the eight (8) days of Passover, to commemorate the Exodus of the Jewish people from Egypt. MEZUZAH (Hebrew, meaning doorpost) - A metal of wooden container affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes. In it is a small parchment scroll in which is handwritten a section from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:4-10). MIKVAH (Hebrew, meaning collection of water) - A ritual bath required for religious purification. Used monthly by Orthodox women and for purposes of conversion. MITZVAH (Hebrew, meaning commandment) - A Jewish obligation such as comforting the sick and giving to the poor. Often translated as a good deed. RABBI (Hebrew, meaning teacher) - The religious head of the community. A rabbi is often the officiant at religious and ritual events. Today, Conservative Reform and Reconstructionist seminaries ordain women rabbis along with men. SHIVA (from Hebrew, meaning seven (7)) - Following the funeral of a family member, mourners return home for a weeklong period of mourning, called Shiva. It is proper to visit the mourners but not to exchange gifts or greetings with them. It is customary to bring food so the mourners will not need to make preparations themselves. SHUL - Yiddish for synagogue. TALLIT TORAH - Hebrew, meaning the study of Torah. Also, a Hebrew school. TEFILLIN (Hebrew, meaning phylacteries) - Tefillin are two (2) small black boxes containing small scrolls of parchment upon which are written four (4) biblical passages. Men and some non-orthodox women wear them during weekday morning non-holiday prayers. Tefillin come with leather straps of which one binds to the forehead and the other to the arm. TORAH (Hebrew, meaning teaching) - The Hebrew Bible, encompassing the Five Books of Moses. TZITZIT - Hebrew, for fringes on the four (4) corners of the payer shawl. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 20 TZEDEKAH - Money given to charity. YAHRZEIT (Yiddish) - The anniversary of the death of a close family member. It is marked by lighting special memorial candle at home, which burns for twenty-four (24) hours. YESHIVA (Hebrew) - A Jewish day school, parochial high school or rabbinical seminary. YIDDISH - A language spoken by European Jews from the Middle Ages to present. It is based mostly on Middle High German with a sprinkling of Hebrew and other languages, and is written in Hebrew characters. ZIONISM - Zionism is the expression and fulfillment of the perennial yearning of the Jewish people to return to their biblical homeland, Israel. That desire was met in 1948, when Israel became an independent state. Most Jews, Zionist or not, identify with Israel as their historic homeland while remaining loyal citizens of the country of birth or choice. MEDICAL PROCEDURES; BEGINNING AND END OF LIFE As a general principle, life-saving measures take precedence over other serious requirements, even for the most Orthodox. SHABBAT AND HOLIDAYS - Medical, surgical and nursing procedures which can readily be postponed should not be performed on Saturdays and Jewish Holy Days. The Jewish Shabbat extends from sunset on Friday to after sunset on Saturdays. CIRCUMCISION (Also called bris or brit milah) - Circumcision is a ritual symbolizing the affirmation of the covenant between God and Abraham. It is transmitted from generation to generation. All male Jewish children are required to be circumcised on the eighth day following their birth; even on the Sabbath or holidays. Circumcision is a religious rite and should be performed by a model, who is medically and religiously trained to perform this ritual. The Board of Rabbis maintains lists of approved mohalim. A quorum, or minyan of ten (10) Jews should, when possible, be present during circumcision. Circumcision by an attending physician, Jewish or not, does not meet religious requirements. Note: circumcision may be postponed in cases where the baby is ill. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 21 POSTMORTEM or AUTOPSY EXAMINATION - Whenever the problem of postmortem arises, it is advisable to contact the Jewish chaplain or the local rabbi and discuss the matter with him or her. Jewish tradition is opposed to most autopsies. DEATH - Judaism does not have any formal sacramental last rites. There are, however, appropriate prayers that may be recited by the chaplain, the patient or the family. When a Jewish patient dies, the Jewish chaplain, a local rabbi, or the local Jewish congregation should be noticed so arrangements can be made for ritual preparation of the body for burial in a Jewish cemetery. FUNERAL AND MOURNING - Central to Jewish tradition is showing respect for the deceased person and comforting mourners. Most Jewish funerals are held soon after death, often within forty-eight (48) hours. They stress simplicity and require the use of a plain, doted, woods coffin. The deceased is not embalmed but washed by members of the Herva Kaddisha (holy burial society), and dressed in a white linen shroud. Condolence calls are made to the family only after the funeral, during the week of SHIVAH (see glossary). Flowers are discouraged; a gift to a favorite charity in the name of the deceased is the preferred way to honor someone’s memory. Most Jewish funerals are held in funeral homes and proceed to a cemetery. Some families choose to have a graveside service only. Occasionally, as a special honor, a funeral service is held in a synagogue. ABORTION - Judaism allows for an abortion in cases where the mother’s life or health is endangered because of pregnancy. The mother’s life has priority over that of the fetus. Common practice is to bury the abortus or a stillborn. AMPUTATION - The emphasis of Judaism on reverence for the body requires that amputated limbs be buried, not destroyed. The Jewish chaplain or a local rabbi should be advised of amputations in sufficient time to make the necessary arrangements for such burials. ORGAN DONATIONS - Many Jewish groups encourage organ donation, especially when it is known that there will be an organ recipient. A rabbi should be consulted if there are concerns. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 22 SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY This list includes books from a variety of Jewish perspectives. WEB SITES JewishVirtualLibrary.org (general information) URJ.org (for Reform Judaism) JRF.org (for Reconstructionist Judaism) USCJ.org (for Conservative Judaism) OU.org (for Orthodox Judaism) GENERAL INTRODUCTIONS TO JUDAISM Bank, Richard D., The Everything Judaism Book, Adams Media, Avon, MA Bank, Richard D. and Gutlin, Julia, The Everything Jewish History and Heritage Book, Adams Media, Avon, MA Bard, Mitchell G., Myths and Facts: A Guide to the Arab-Israeli Conflict, American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise (AICE), Chevy Chase, MD. 2001, www.JewishVirtualLibrary.org Dowin, Hayim, To Be a Jew: A Guide to Jews Observance in Contemporary Life (Basic Books, New York. 1972). Popular guide from an Orthodox, Jewish perspective. Elber, Mark, The Everything Kabbalah Book, Adams Media, Avon, MA. 2006 Frankel, Ellen, and Betsy Platkin Teutsch, The Encyclopedia of Jewish Symbols (Jason Aronson, Northvale, NJ. 1992). Brief articles, frequently illustrated, on ancient and modern symbols, objects and holidays. Kertzer, Morris, What is a Jew (revised ed. Jewish Lights Publishing, Woodstock, VT. 1993). Basic information in question and answer format. (Phone 802-457-4000) Steinberg, Milton. Basic Judaism (NY Harcourt, Brace. 1927), Outline of basic values of Judaism. Telushin, Joseph, Jewish Literacy (Wm. Morrow & Co., Inc. NY. 1991). Short articles on Jewish history, holidays, observances, values and personalities. A very helpful reference. Trepp, Leo, The Complete Book of Jewish Observance (Behrman House, Inc./ Summit Books, NY. 1980), Overview of Jewish life with descriptions of holidays, life cycle events, and home observances with notes on variations among movements. LIFECYLE Lamm, Maurice, The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning (Jonathan David Publishers, NY. 1969) Classic guide by Orthodox rabbi. Guide to Jewish Religious Practices at Lions Gate Page 23 Orenstein, Debra (ed.) Lifecycles I: Jewish Women on Life Passages and Personal Milestones (Jewish Lights. 1994). Award-winning anthology by women of many backgrounds, covers birth to death. Reimer, Jack (ed.) Wrestling with the Angel: Jewish Insights on Death and Mourning, (Schoken Books, New York. 1995). Excellent anthology (all movements) covering illness, death, mourning, stillbirth, euthanasia, afterlife, and many other issues. Paperback title differs slightly. Wolfson, Ron, A Time to Comfort, A Time to Mourn: A Guide to Jewish Bereavement and Comfort (Jewish Lights. 1993). An excellent guide with interviews with real families along with factual material. The conservative author covers a wide range of opinion. PASTORAL AND MEDICAL ETHICS SOURCES Feldman, David. Health in the Jewish Tradition: L’Hayyim - - To Life (Crossroad, NY. 1986). Brief introduction to religious values that affect medical ethics. Meir, Levy (ed.) Jewish Values in Bioethics (Human Sciences Press, NY. 1986). Selected essays. Ozarawski, Joseph, To Walk in God’s Ways: Jewish Perspectives on Illness and Bereavement (Jason Aronson. 1995). A helpful introduction by an Orthodox rabbi who studies pastoral care at a Christian seminary. Rosner, Fred and J. David Bleich, Jewish Bioethics, (New York, Sanhedrin Press. 1979) Schur, Tzvi, Illness and Crisis: Coping the Jewish Way (National Conference of Synagogue Youth, New York. 1987). A short overview by an Orthodox chaplain with much for people from any movement. Soncino, Rifat and Daniel B. Syme, What Happens After I Die? Jewish Views of Life After Death (Jason Aronson. 1990, 1994). Reform rabbis summarize many of the different ideas in this subject in a readable format. Swirsky, Michael, At the Threshold: Jewish Meditations on Death (Jason Aronson. 1996). A book of readings and meditations for people facing their own death. Weintraub, Simcha (ed.) Healing of Soul, Healing of Body: Spiritual Leaders Unfold the Strength and Solace in Psalms (Jewish Lights and National Center for Jewish Healing. 1994). A dozen rabbis from all movements share medications on favorite psalms.