by Aviva Blumstein | Blog
— The wedding contract — A ketubah is a special legal document, the marriage contract, which is an integral part of a Jewish wedding ceremony. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of the groom in relation to the bride. It was set up in ancient...
by Aviva Blumstein | Blog
Only 1-of-10 Jewish families ever meet all the conditions for Pidyon Ha’Ben. If you were eligible for a Pidyon Ha’Ben, but did not have one, then you still can and should have one. Speak to your rabbi to arrange the ceremony! Some people have the custom to...
by Aviva Blumstein | Blog
1) Find a Kohen who will be happy to partake in this special ceremony. If you are unsure who to choose confer with your local rabbi who will be able to help you. 2) You will need five silver coins, containing approximately 110 grams of silver. Five U.S. silver dollars...
by Aviva Blumstein | Blog
Pidyon Ha’Ben, literally means the “redemption of the first born son.” The Pidyon HaBen takes place when the first born who is male, is at least 31 days old. The ceremony involves “buying him back” from a Kohen/Priest in order to release him from...
by Aviva Blumstein | Blog, Brit/Simchat Bat/Pidyon
Composed by Shelley List and Yael Penkower. English:Master of the creation: You have made me your partner in creating a new life on this great and wonderful day. My heart is filled with joy! Let my husband and family stand with me and praise Your mercy. For You did...
by Aviva Blumstein | Blog
After dinner on the first Friday night after a baby boy is born, it is customary to invite friends and family to a “Sholom Zochor/ Shalom Zachar”. This is loosely translated as “a time for wishing peace to the male child.” The Sholom Zochor is...
