Kiddush (
Hebrew ??????, literally, "sanctification") is a blessing recited over
wine or
grape juice to sanctify the
Shabbat,
Jewish holiday or a Bat/Barmitzvah. The Torah refers to two requirements concerning Shabbat - to "keep it" and to "remember it" (
shamor and
zakhor).
Jewish law therefore requires that Shabbat be observed in two respects. One must "keep it" by refraining from
thirty-nine forbidden activities, and one must "remember it" by making special arrangements for the day, and specifically through the
kiddush ceremony.
Reciting kiddush before the meal on the eve of Shabbat and Jewish holidays is thus regarded as a commandment from the Torah (as it is explained by the Oral Torah). Reciting kiddush before the morning meal on Shabbat and holidays, however, is a requirement of rabbinic origin. Kiddush is not usually recited at the third meal on Shabbat, although Maimonides was of the opinion that wine should be drunk at this meal as well.
The term kiddush is also used to refer to a ceremonial meal served at a synagogue following the recitation of kiddush at the conclusion of services, in which refreshments are served. Traditionally, this often includes cake, crackers, and fish.
To honor the mitzvah of reciting kiddush, a silver goblet is often used, although any cup can suffice. The cup must hold a revi'it of liquid (about 76.5 milliters,[citation needed] although some try to use double this amount). After the person reciting the kiddush drinks from the wine, the rest of it is passed around the table or poured out into small cups for the other participants. Alternatively, wine is poured for each of the participants before kiddush.
