This is one of those pages you should check often.  Some times it goes a long time with out a change then there are times when it changes weekly or monthly.  So, Come back often.  New words will be added to the bottom under the title NEW for a while ( a month or two) before being placed in order.

Abib : First month of the Messianic Hebrew calendar as commanded by Yahuah

Adam : (Hebrew for "human, man") Name given to the first created male (with Eve as female) in the creation story in the Hebrew scriptures (Genesis (Bereshit ) 1). Has been interpreted over the centuries both literally (as an actual historical person) and symbolically (as generic humankind).

Aggada (h) : Hebrew term for non-halakic (nonlegal) matter, especially in Talmud and Midrash; includes folklore, legend, theology/theosophy, scriptural interpretations, biography, etc.; also spelled haggada (h), not to be confused, however, with the Passover Manual called "the Haggada (h)."

Agunah : An abandoned woman who has not been given a divorce from her husband. She cannot initiate divorce proceedings and is at the mercy of her community and her own resourcefulness.

Ahava : love. It's not the only thing but the best thing.

Akedah : The Hebrew biblical account of Yahuah command to Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice (Genesis (Bereshit ) 22).

Aliyah : Term used when a Person is called to say a blessing before and after the Torah is read. It is also a term used for emigrating to Israel. Literal meaning is "going up" or ascension; in that light, emigrating to Israel is seen as a spiritual ascension.

Am haaretz : A term used in Hebrew scriptures for citizens, or some particular class of citizens; in rabbinic literature, for persons or groups that dissented from or were uninstructed in rabbinic halaka and rigorous purity and tithing norms. It sometimes signifies the unlearned, sometimes is used condescendingly (boor). It was also used of the broad mass of Jewish people of the 1st century CE, who cannot be categorized into any of the subgroups of the time.

Am Yahisrael : The people of Israel.

Amidah : The silent prayer recited morning, afternoon and evening that contain eighteen blessings.

Archaic Hebrew : Archaic Hebrew is the purest language and the first spoken by man! Remember, Archaic and not the modern, current Hebrew language, Archaic Hebrew is the original Hebrew.

Aron Hakodesh : Aron Hakodesh (ah-rone'ha-koe-desh) is the Hebrew term for the Holy Ark. Some Congregations have more than one Torah in their Aron Hakodesh, therefore, it is good to know that the plural for Torah is Sifrei Torah (seef-ray).

Ashkenazi : The term now used for Jews who derive from northern Europe and who generally follow the customs originating in medieval German Judaism, in contradistinction to Sephardic Judaism, which has its distinctive roots in Spain and the Mediterranean. Originally the designation Ashkenazi referred to a people and country bordering on Armenia and the upper Euphrates; in medieval times, it came to refer to the Jewish area of settlement in northwest Europe (northern France and western Germany). By extension, it now refers to Jews of northern and eastern European background (including Russia) with their distinctive liturgical practices or religious and social customs.

Atonement : In Hebrewism, atonement (Hebrew: kaparah) or reconciliation between Yahuah and humanity, is achieved by the process of teshuvah -repentance, seeking forgiveness and making amends with our fellow human beings.

Avraham : Abraham, the 1st of the three Patriarchs.

B'nai Yahisrael : The Children of Israel.

Bamidbar : Literally, "in the desert," however, it usually relates to the fourth book of the Torah, the Book of Numbers ( Bemidbar ).

Bar Mitzvah : (Jewish) Bar is an Aramaic word meaning "son, while Bat is the Hebrew word for "daughter." The plural of Bar is B'nai, while the plural of Bat is B'not. When a Bar and Bat are referred to, the masculine plural is used. Mitzvah is Hebrew for "commandment." (B'nai or B'not Mitzvah is the plural.)

Bat Mitzvah : A rite of passage for Hebrew girls, usually at the age of 12 for girls. At this age a young lady is considered to be responsible for carrying out Yahuah commandments. At this time a girl is called to read from the Torah in Hebrew in front of the congregation after which they can be counted as an adult member of the congregation. Literal meaning: daughter of the commandment.

Bavli : Jewish shorthand term for the Babylonian Talmud.

Beit Midrash : In Hebrewism and Judaism, a place (beit = "house") of study, discussion, and prayer; in ancient times a school of higher learning. Similarly, bet am ("house of people"), bet kneset ("house of assembly") and bet tefilla ("house of prayer") are designations for locations/functions that came to be included in the general term synagogue.

Ben : Ben is a Hebrew word meaning "son".

Ben Mitzvah : A rite of passage for Hebrew boys, usually at the age of 13. At this age a young man is considered to be responsible for carrying out Yahuah commandments. At this time a boy is called to read from the Torah in Hebrew in front of the congregation after which they can be counted as an adult member of the congregation. Literal meaning: son of the commandment.

Bereshit : The Book of Genesis.

Bimah : Location in a synagogue from which worship is led.

Birkat Hamazon : Grace after meals.

Brachah : Brachah means blessing. The plural is Berachot.

Brit : Also Bris (Brit Milah). Circumcision of the male Hebrew child is one of the most important religious rituals in the life of a Hebrew boy. Brit means covenant and refers to the covenant made between Yahuah and Abraham. The covenant was entered into and sealed by the act of circumcision. It is performed on the eighth day in a religious ceremony by a mohel. The child is usually given his Hebrew name during the ceremony.

B'tulah : virgin in Hebrew The consonants are Beit Tav Vav Lamed Heh.

Cantor : The individual who chants the prayers (usually in Hebrew) during the service in the synagogue, also song leader.

Chai : Hebrew word for life. Numerically it represents the number 18.

Chanukah : Eight Day Festival of Lights. This Hebrew holiday represents the successful Maccabean revolt against Antiochus IV in 164 BCE. (25th day of Kislev) The candles of the Chanukah (Menorah) are lit each night, beginning with one candle the first night, adding an additional candle each subsequent night until there are eight candles representing the eight days of Chanukah plus the shamas candle (the tallest candle used to light the others.) Chanukah gelt (money) is often given to children during Chanukah, and the game of dreidle (spinning top) is played. Chanukah is not a "religious" holiday (as is Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur), and is actually a minor holiday on the Jewish calendar. It is only its close proximity to Christmas that has (very recently) elevated its importance.

Chanukah Menorah : Menorah used on Chanukah, a nine branched candelabra.

Chaveirim : friend.

Chok : A statute, a law that defies logic and understanding. Plural Chukim.

Chosen People : According to the Torah, All of Israel's children were chosen by Yahuah to receive the Torah and given the special responsibility (or duty) to be "A Light Unto The Nations", thereby, spreading the word of Yahuah.

Christian Bible : Composed of two main parts: Old Testament and New Testament.

Church House : Building where Christians go to worship.

Church : Christian Believers, also Messianic Believers.

Chuppah : Wedding canopy under which the wedding ceremony is performed in a Hebrew wedding. Symbolizes the future home of the bride and groom.

Circumcision : See Brit

Commandments : See also Mitzvah. According to rabbinic Jewish tradition, there are 613 religious commandments referred to in the Torah (and elaborated upon by the rabbinic sages). Of these, 248 are positive commandments and 365 are negative. The numbers respectively symbolize the fact that divine service must be expressed through all one's bodily parts during all the days of the year. In general, a mitzvah refers to any act of religious duty or obligation; more colloquially, a mitzvah refers to a "good deed."

Confirmation : A ceremony found in both the Christian religion and in some branches of the Jewish religion. A sacrament of the Catholic Church, it marks the admission of the person to full membership in the church (takes place between ages 7-14). A rite of passage in Judaism, confirmation usually marks the end of formal religious school training (age 15-16), and traditionally occurs around the time of Shavuot. In Hebrewism it is a time when a person makes the decision to turn away from the ways of the secular world and to follow the teachings of the Torah. May be announced at any Sabbath gathering.

Conservative Judaism : Came into being to create a new synthesis in Jewish life. Conservative Judaism is the creative force through which modernity and tradition inform and reshape each other.

Conservative Hebrewism : Follows closely to the Conservitive Judaism in practice and ways. They also accept the part commonly called the New Testament in a Conservative way.

Day : ( Hebrew & Jewish ) A period of time from sunset until sunset.

Daven : Yiddish word indicating prayer, i.e., "I daven at the synagogue."

Devarim : The Book of Deuteronomy.

Diaspora : The dispersion of Jews throughout the world after the fall of the second Temple (70 CE). Refers to all Hebrews living outside of Israel. Also known as the "exile" (in Hebrew: galut).

Ein sof : Literally, "without limit." In Jewish kabbalism, a designation for the divine -- "the unlimited one."

Eliyahu Hanavi : Elijah the Prophet

Elohim : Hebrew, Jewish general term for deity.

Eretz Yahisrael : The Land of Israel.

Erev : Erev (eh'rev) means "evening" - usually the evening before a holiday, e.g., Erev Shabbat is Friday evening, Erev Rosh Hashanah is the evening before the day of Rosh Hashanah.

Etrog : A citron; "the fruit of goodly trees" Leviticus ( Vayyiqra ) 23.40 carried in procession in the synagogue with the lulav during the festival of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles).

Exodus ( Shemot ) : Refers to the event of the Israelites leaving Egypt and to the biblical book that tells of that event.

Ezra : Name of a person in the Hebrew Bible with whom the reestablishment of Judaism in Jerusalem in the 5th century BCE is associated. The events are recorded in a biblical book known by his name, and he is also associated with apocryphal books and traditions.

Galut : The term refers to the various expulsions of Jews from the ancestral homeland. Over time, it came to express the broader notion of Jewish as well as Hebrew homelessness and state of being aliens. Thus, colloquially, "to be in galut" means to live in the diaspora and also to be in a state of physical and even spiritual alienation.

Gamar Chatimah Tovah : "May you be sealed (in the Book of Life) for (a) good (year)."

Gemara : Popularly applied to the Jewish Talmud as a whole, to discussions by rabbinic teachers on Mishnah, and to decisions reached in these discussions. In a more restricted sense, the work of the generations of the amoraim in "completing" Mishnah to produce the Talmuds.

Gematria : An interpretative device in rabbinic Judaism which focuses on the numerical value of each word.

Genizah : A hiding place or storeroom, usually connected with a Jewish and Hebrew synagogue, for worn-out holy books. The most famous is the Cairo Genizah, which contained books and documents that provide source material for Jewish communities living under Islamic rule from about the 9th through the 12th centuries. It was discovered at the end of the 19th century.

God : The word God or god is a word used to describe that which you put first and foremost in your life.. The word God, GOD, or G-d means the Creator of the Universe.

god : The word 'god' means that which you put first in your life and is not the Creator of the Universe

Goy : Hebrew word for nation or people ("goy kadosh" -a Holy People/ Nation). It is also a Yiddish word for non-Jew. The word is most often seen as a pejorative, and has a negative meaning derived from the context used to slander anyone who tries to live a Godly lifestyle and is not of Jewish blood line through their mother. Seeing that the word is first and foremost a Hebrew word meaning "a Holy People or Nation" those of us who were as well as those who were not born Jew are proud to be "Goy".

Hacham : A Jewish title given to pre-70 CE proto -rabbinic sages / scholars and post-70 CE rabbinic scholars.

Haftarah : Haftarah (haf-tah-rah') is a reading from the non-Torah books of the Bible. There is a specific reading associated with each Sedra of the Torah.

Haftorah : A portion from the books of the Prophets that corresponds to a theme found in the Parsha. During Israel's long history, some of our hosts were not liberal in their view of Torah. A number of times the reading or study of Torah was forbidden. The sages devised a method of reading a related subject from the prophets, so that Torah study could continue. The Haftorah was one such device. Once it became an established method, it was never rescinded, even though Torah study was again permitted.

Hag Sameach : Hebrew for "happy holiday."

Haggadah : The book used during the Seder that recounts the story of the Exodus (Shemot ).

Halacha : Hebrew law. Rabbis can interpret the laws differently; however, all interpretations must be rooted in the Torah.

Halitzah : A ceremony related to the Hebrew Levitate law of marriage, which frees the widow to marry someone other than her husband's brother. In this ceremony the widow removes a shoe from her brother-in- law's foot, which is symbolic of removing his possessive right over her.

Hasbara : Gospels

Hashem : Modern Jewish word Literally meaning, "The Name." Used so as not to take the Lord's Name in vain.

Hasidim: A sect of Orthodox Jews, founded in the second half of the 18th century in Poland-Lithuania, whose beliefs are rooted in the Kabbalah, populism, charismatic leadership and ecstacism.

Haskalah : Jewish rationalistic "enlightenment" in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe.

Havdalah : The Hebrew ceremony using wine, spices, and candles at the conclusion of the Sabbath. Smelling the spices signifies the hope for a fragrant week; the light signifies the hope for a week of brightness and joy.

Heaven : There is a heaven in Hebrew teaching, but the focus of life is on the here and now on earth as well as that which we must do to please Yahuah.

Hebrew : Holy language of The Hebrew People. Most holy books were originally written in Archaic Hebrew the purest language or Aramaic, a closely related language. Today the some Scriptures have been changed and written in modern Hebrew. It is also the language of the people living in Israel.

Hebrew Bible : Composed of four main parts: Torah (Five Books of Moses called Pentateuch), Tadiran ( [detailed instructions] First five books of the New Testament), Neviim (Prophets), Ketuvim (Holy Writings).

Hebrew Naming Ceremony : For a boy, a Hebrew name is given during the Brit. For a girl, the Hebrew naming occurs during a special ceremony at a synagogue service or in the home, usually within the first month. The Hebrew name links the Jewish child to past generations.

Hebrew Rosh Hashanah : Hebrew New Year that occurs in the spring. First day of Abib.

Hebrews : All decedents of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

High Sabbaths : Days commanded by Yahuah to be kept from year to year at a set time of year until the end of time.

Hillel : Often called by the title "the Elder. " Probably a Babylonian, Hillel was an important sage of the early Jewish period in Palestine around the turn of the era. His teachings convey the Pharisaic ideal, through many epigrams on humility and peace (found in Sayings of the Fathers 1-2); and were fundamental in shaping the Pharisaic traditions and modes of interpretation. In rabbinic lore, Hillel is famous for a negative formulation of the "golden rule" (recited to a non- Jew): "What is hateful to you do not do to your fellow man. That is the whole Torah, the rest is commentary. Go and learn it." His style of legal reasoning is continued by his disciples, known as Beit Hillel ("House / School of Hillel"), and is typically contrasted with that of Shammai (a contemporary) and his school.

Holocaust : Refers to the systematic destruction of 6,000,000 European Jews as well as just over 6,000,000 non-Jews, (blacks, retarded, and crippled) during World War II under the direction of Hitler and the Nazis.

Human Nature : Hebrewism teaches that humans are born good, but have free will, and the inclination to do evil or good. The Torah is the guide to good behavior.

Israel : Homeland of the Hebrew people. Also used in literature as a synonym for the Hebrew people. Israel is the decedants of Jacob ( Israel).

Jew : Any one who can trace his or her blood line as being a Jew.

Jewish : A person who lives the lifestyle of a Jew.

Jewish Bible : Composed of three main parts: Torah (Five Books of Moses called Pentateuch), Neviim (Prophets), Ketuvim (Holy Writings).

Jewish Rosh Hashanah : Jewish New Year that occurs in the fall. First day of Tishri. Beginning of the Days of Awe, a unique 10 day period of prayer, self-examination and repentance.

Kabbalah : Name of the genre for Jewish mystical studies.

Kaddish : In Hebrewism and Judasim, a traditional prayer is said when someone dies and on the anniversary of his or her death. This prayer reaffirms the natural order of life and nature, and does not mention death at all. (note: The prayer is for the living, not the dead.)

Kashrut : Hebrew and Jewish dietary laws.

Kavanah : A mystical instrument of the Jewish kabbalists; a meditation which accompanies a ritual act.

Kehilla : Hebrews' sense of community, in a particular sense, within the larger kneset Israel.

Keneset Yahisrael : "Assembly of Israel," or the Hebrew people as a whole.

Ketuba : The classical Hebrew and Jewish religious marriage certificate.

Ketuvim : ( Hebrew ) The third and last division of the classical Jewish and Hebrew Bible, including large poetic and epigrammatic works such as Psalms and Proverbs and Job as well as a miscellany of other writings (Song of Songs, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra-Nehemiah, Chronicles). In the case of the Hebrew Bible, these other writings ( Hebrew, Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Philemon, Timothy, Titus, James, Peter, John, Jude).

Kibbutz : A communal settlement in modern Israel.

Kiddush : The blessing recited over wine on the Sabbath and Festivals. The root is from the Hebrew word, Kaddosh, which means holy. The wine is sanctified by saying a blessing. Kiddish is also a light meal/repast following a Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

Kippah : Kippah (Hebrew) or Yarmulke (Yiddish) is the skullcap worn during the worship service. Many liberal Hebrew and Jews wear a kippah during times of Jewish study. It is customary for an Orthodox Hebrew and Jew to wear one at all times.

Kohen : A member of a certain sect or part of the tribal priest out of the Levits.

Kol Nidre : The Yom Kippur Eve service is referred to as Kol Nidre. That hymn is sung during the service.

Kosher (Jewish) : "Proper" or "ritually correct"; kashrut refers to ritually correct Jewish dietary practices. Traditional Jewish dietary laws are based on biblical and Rabbinic legislation. Only land animals that chew the cud and have split hooves (sheep, beef; not pigs, camels) are permitted and must be slaughtered in a special way. Further, meat products may not be eaten with milk products or immediately thereafter. Of sea creatures, only those (fish) having fins and scales are permitted. Fowl is considered a meat food and also has to be slaughtered in a special manner.

Kosher (Hebrew) : Torah correct dietary laws are based on biblical legislation. Only land animals that chew the cud and have split hooves (sheep, beef, deer; not pigs, horses, camels) are permitted and must be slaughtered in a way to cause the least amount of suffering to the animal. Further, meat products may not be eaten with milk products from the same species unless one knows for certain that the milk is not from the mother of the animal being eaten. Of sea creatures, only those (fish) having fins and scales are permitted. Fowl is a meat food, However Fowls do not nurse their young and therefore milk products may be eaten with Fowl. Fowl must be slaughtered in a manner that caused the least amount of suffering to the bird.

L'Chaim : Literally means "To Life." Used as a toast.

L'hitraot : Hebrew... good bye w/out saying goodbye.

L'shanah Tovah Tikateivu : "May you be written (in the Book of Life) for a good year."

Lashon Hara : Literally, evil language, encompasses all forms of forbidden speech (gossip, slander, lying, etc.).

Lavan : The father-in-law and uncle of Ya'acov.

Lulav : The palm branch used with other plants in the Hebrew Sukkot (Tabernacles) celebration.

Maariv : Hebrew and Jewish synagogue evening prayer or service.

Machzor : The High Holy Day prayer book (as distinct from the Siddur, the Shabbat and daily prayer book). In Reform synagogues, the Machzor used is called Gates of Repentance.

Magen David : Star of David formed by two equal-sided triangles placed opposite each other with a common center creating a six pointed star.

Maggid : A kabalistic notion of how the holy spirit is mediated to the mystic; later meant a preacher among the eighteenth-century Hasidim.

Maimonides : Moses ben Maimon, a major medieval rabbi, physician, scientist, and philosopher (1135-1204), known by the acronym RaMBaM (Rabbi Moses ben Maimon). Born in Spain, Maimonides fled from persecution to Morocco and finally settled in Egypt. His Major works include a legal commentary on the Mishnah, a law code called Mishnah Torah, and the preeminent work of medieval Jewish rational philosophy, The Guide of the Perplexed.

Makkot : A tractate of Talmud.

Marranos : An old Spanish term meaning "swine," used to execrate medieval Spanish Jews who converted to Christianity but secretly kept their Judaism.

Mashiach : ( Jewish ) Literally, the anointed one. Refers to the Messiah of the tribe of King David who will establish the Commonwealth of Israel to the glory Hashem intended it to be.

Maskilim : Literally, "the enlightened ones." Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Jews who engaged in secular rationalistic studies and facilitated the acculturation of Jews to Western society; members of the haskalah.

Matan Torah : The giving of the Torah on Mt. Sinai.

Matzah : Unleavened bread eaten during the week of Passover in memory of the Exodus ( Shemot ) from Egypt.

Mazel Tov : Means congratulations and good luck in Hebrew.

Megillah : The scroll read on Purim that relates the story of Esther saving the Hebrew from being exterminated by Haman.

Menorah : Seven branch candelabra as used in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and in synagogues or the nine branch candelabra (including the shamas) used during Chanukah.

Mensch : A special person with worth and dignity. One who can be respected.

Messiah : Jews believe the Messiah is yet to come while the Messianic Hebrews are awaiting his return.  The Messiah's name is Yahshua.

Messianic Hebrew : All Jews who believe that the Messiah has came and shall return again someday. Also, Those who Believe that the Messiah has came and shall return someday and Keep Torah Observant and count themselves among the lost tribes of Israel.

Messianic Hebrew Rosh Hashanah : Messianic Hebrew New Year that occurs in the spring on the first day of Abib as commanded by Yahuah.

Messianic Congregation : A group of People who keeps Yahuah's Law and believe that The Messiah has came once and shall come again.

Messianic Synagogue : A building where Messianic /Nazarene believers go to worship.

Mezuzah : ( Hebrew/Jewish) A parchment scroll with selected Torah verses (Deuteronomy 6.4-9; 11.13-21) placed in a container and affixed to the exterior door posts (at the right side of the entrance) of observant Hebrew homes (see Deuteronomy 6.1-4), and sometimes also to interior door posts of rooms. The word Shaddai usually is inscribed on the back of the container.

Midrash : From Hebrew darash, "to inquire," whence it comes to mean "exposition" (of scripture). Refers to the "commentary" literature developed in classical Judaism that attempts to interpret Jewish scriptures in a thorough manner. Literary Midrash may focus either on halaka, directing the Jew to specific patterns of religious practice, or on (haggada, dealing with theological ideas, ethical teachings, popular philosophy, imaginative exposition, legend, allegory, animal fables, etc. -- that is, whatever is not halaka. An integral part of the Oral Tradition.

Mikvah : A Hebrew communal bath (like baptism) for washing away ritual impurity by immersion.  The plural is Mikvoa'ot.

Mincha : Afternoon prayers in Hebrew and Jewish synagogue.

Minyan : Ten adult Jews. (In Orthodox Judaism, ten adult men.) The number necessary to conduct a prayer service or read from the Torah. In a Messianic Hebrew synagogue a Minyan is not required. Only a Rabbi / Teacher / Leader and one other is required to hold a service of almost any kind.

Miracles : In the biblical sense, an event which occurs in a way which contradicts the natural order of things as we understand and commonly experience it. Miracles occur as a result of the power of Yahuah.

Mishna : The digest of the recommended Jewish oral halaka as it existed at the end of the 2nd century and was collated, edited, and revised by Rabbi Judah the Prince. The code is divided into six major units and sixty-three minor ones. The work is the authoritative legal tradition of the early sages and is the basis of the legal discussions of the Talmud.

Mishpat : An ordinance, a law that can be understood universally. Plural Mishpatim.

Mitnaged : Traditionalist and rationalistic Jewish opponents of eighteenth-century Jewish Hasidism.

Mitzvah : A commandment of the Torah. Often used to mean a good deed.  The plural is Mitzvohs.

Mohel : A specialist who performs a circumcision at a Brit.

Monthly Sabbath : The first day of the New Month. Called Rosh Chodesh. Some months observed for two day.

Moses : The great biblical personality (c. thirteenth century BCE) who is credited with leading the people of Israel out of Egyptian bondage and teaching them the divine laws at Sinai. He is also described as first of the Hebrew prophets. Throughout Hebrew history he is the exalted man of faith and leadership without peer.

Motzi : The blessing over bread recited before eating.

Navi : A "prophet" in ancient Israel. "Nevi'im" (or Nebiim) became a designation for a section of the Hebrew and Jewish scriptures.

Nazarene Hebrew : Same as Orthodox Messianic Hebrew.

Ner Tamid : Eternal light that hangs in front of the Ark (the ark contains the Torah) in a synagogue.

Non-believers : People who believe that the Messiah has not came yet, or does not believe in Yahuah.

Olam haBa : the World to Come

Omer : In Hebrewism, the sheaf of grain offering brought to the temple during Passover, on Abib 16; thus also the name of the seven-week period between Passover (Pesach) and Shavuot also known as the Sephirah.

Oral Law : In traditional Jewish pharisaic/rabbinic thought, Yahuah reveals instructions for living through both the written scriptures and through a parallel process of orally transmitted traditions. Critics of this approach within Judaism include Sadducees and Karaites. Also not fully accepted by the Messianic Hebrews.

Orthodox : Most traditional of the major branches of Hebrewism and Judaism. The Orthodox believe the Torah is the revealed word of Yahuah. The Orthodox Jews believe the Talmud is the legitimate Oral Law. Orthodox Jews feel they are bound by the traditional Rabbinic Halacha (law) as a way of closeness to Yahuah. The Orthodox Messianic Hebrew Keep Torah Observant however not Rabbinic Observant.

Parochet : Parochet (pah-roe'-chet) is the curtain (as opposed to the doors) in front of the Aron Hakodesh.

Parsha : The weekly Torah portion.

Passover : (Pesach) : Passover is a major festival / holiday prescribed in the Bible. Passover symbolizes the ideal of freedom with the recounting of the story of the Exodus (Shemot). On the Eve of the first day a Seder is held. In the Diaspora, a second Seder is often held. Passover lasts for 7 days in Israel (and for Reform Jews and Messianic Hebrews) and 8 days outside of Israel.

Pentateuch : Torah, Five Books of Moses.

Pilpul : Dialectical rational method of studying Jewish oral law as codified in the Talmud(s).

Pirke Avot : A Tractate of Mishna that deals with ethical and moral behavior.

Piyyutim : Medieval Jewish synagogue hymns and poems added to standard prayers of the talmudic liturgy.

Pogrom : From the Russian word for "devastation"; an unprovoked attack or series of attacks upon a Jewish community.

Purim : Joyous Hebrew festival (holiday) reflecting the story of the Book of Esther. Commemorates the victory of the Jews over Haman and his anti-Semitic following, between the two Temple periods. Celebrated with games, costumes & the reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther).

Qumran : The site near the northwest corner of the Dead Sea in modern Israel (west bank) where the main bulk of the Jewish "Dead Sea Scrolls" were discovered abound 1946. The "Qumran community" that apparently produced the scrolls seems to have flourished from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE, and is usually identified with the Jewish Essenes, or a group like them.

Rabbi : Literally means teacher. A recognized person knowledgeable of Jewish and Hebrew law. Usually ordained at a seminary and empowered to conduct services, preside at weddings and burials.

Ramban : Rabbi Moshe ben Nachman, also known as Nachmanides, 1194-1270.

Rashi : Acronym for Rabbi Solomon (= Sholomo) ben Isaac (1040-1105), a great medieval sage of Troyes, France. He is the author of fundamental commentaries on the Talmud , and one of the most beloved and influential commentaries on the Bible. Characterized by great lucidity and pedagogy, his comments emphasized the plain, straightforward sense of a text.

Reconstructionist Judaism : A movement founded by Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan that defines Judaism as an "evolving religious civilization," both cultural and spiritual with the traditions existing for the people and not vice versa.

Reform Judaism : Seeks to reconcile basic Jewish beliefs with life in the modern world. The concept of prophetic Judaism motivating social action is a primary focus of Reform Judaism. Prayers began to be offered in the vernacular as well as in Hebrew, and the service was shortened. The essential principal of Reform is that religion is organic and dynamic.

Reform Messianic Hebrew : Seeks to reconcile basic Hebrew beliefs with life in the modern world. The concept of prophetic Judaism motivating social action is a primary focus of Reform Judaism and is followed by the Messianic Hebrew. The essential principal of Reform is that religion is organic and dynamic.

Rosh HaYeshiva : A dean of a Talmudic academy.

Rosh Chodesh : Literally, "beginning of a lunar month." The New Month Festival.

Sabbath : The seventh day of the week, recalling the completion of the creation and the Exodus ( Shemot ) from Egypt. It is a day symbolic of new beginnings and one dedicated to Yahuah, a most holy day of rest. The commandment of rest is found in the Bible and has been elaborated by the rabbis. It is a special duty to study Torah on the Sabbath and to be joyful. Sabbaths near major festivals are known by special names. Sabbath is a period of time from sun set until sun set on days that Yahuah law says we must keep Holy, worship, and do no work for personal gain.

Sadducees : An early Jewish subgroup whose origins and ideas are uncertain. It probably arose early in the 2nd century BCE and ceased to exist when the Temple was destroyed in 70 CE although there seems to be a remnant of them today. Sadducees supported priestly authority and rejected traditions not directly grounded in the Pentateuch, such as the concept of personal, individual life after death. They are often depicted as in conflict with the Pharisees.

Samaritans : Another of the numerous subgroups in early Judaism and residents of the district of Samaria north of Jerusalem and Judah in what is now Israel. They are said to have recognized only the Pentateuch as scripture and Mt. Gerizim as the sacred center rather than Jerusalem. There was ongoing hostility between Samaritans and Judahites. Samaritan communities exist to the present.

Sanhedrin : The highest court of Israel. Comprised of 71 Rabbis, it produced a highly sophisticated system of jurisprudence that is still in effect today. The Sanhedrin sat in the Temple area and could only be convened while the offerings and rituals of the Temple were in play. Today with no Temple, a Sanhedrin cannot be convened.

Seder : Literally, the order. The Passover (Pesach) service and meal held on the eve of the beginning of the week of Passover during which the story of the Exodus ( Shemot ) is recounted.

Sedra : Sedra (plural, Sidrot) is a section of the Torah read during a particular week. The particular passages of a Sedra being read are referred to as the Parashah (pah-rah-shah').

Sefer Chayim : The Book of Life. Jewish tradition says that during these Days of Awe, our names are written down by Yahuah in one of several books, and our fate for the coming year is sealed. This image shakes the soul even if it is seen as a metaphor. All of us hope that the book in which our names are written is the Book of Life.

Sefira : In Jewish kabala, the sefirot are the primary emanations or manifistations of deity that together make up the fullness of the godhead.

Selichot : The word "Selicha" means "forgiveness," "selichot" is simply the plural. It is a reference to the prayers for forgiveness we say during this season, and the special service of penitence held at midnight on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah.

Semichah : Rabbinic ordination.

Sephardim : The designation Sepharad in biblical times refers to a colony of exiles from Jerusalem (Obadiah 20), possibly in or near Sardis; in the medieval period, Sephardi(c) Jews are those descended from those who lived in Spain and Portugal (the Iberian peninsula) before the expulsion of 1492. As a cultural designation, the term refers to the complex associated with Jews of this region and its related diaspora in the Balkans and Middle East (especially in Islamic countries). The term is used in contradistinction to Ashkenazi, but it does not refer, thereby, to all Jews of non-Ashkenazi origin.

Shabbat Shalom : A greeting given on Shabbat Eve and Shabbat meaning, [may you have] the peace of the Sabbath.

Shavuot : The festival on the 6th of the Hebrew month of Sivan, when the Torah was given on Mt. Sinai.

Shekinah : Jewish term for the divine presence; the Holy Spirit. In Kabalism it sometimes took on the aspect of the feminine element in deity.

Shema : Hebrew word that is the first word of the verse, "Hear, O Israel, Yahuah our Lord is One. This verse is part of every religious service. It is included in the mezuzah.

Shemini Atzeret : The Eighth Day of Assembly. An eight-day festival that immediately follows the seven-day festival of Sukkot (Tabernacles).

Shemoneh Esreh : The main section of Jewish prayers recited in a standing position and containing 19 "benedictions": praise to (1) Yahuah of the fathers/patriarchs, (2) Yahuah power and (3) holiness; prayers for (4) knowledge, (5) repentance, (6) forgiveness, (7) redemption, (8) healing sick persons, (9) agricultural pro sperity, (10) ingathering the diaspora, (11) righteous judgment, (12) punishment of wicked and heretics (birka t haminim, (13) reward of pious, (14) rebuilding Jerusalem, (15) restoration of royal house of David, (16) acceptance of prayers, (17) thanks to Yahuah, (18) restoration of Temple worship, and (19) peace.

Shemot : The book of Exodus.

Sheol : Place of departed dead in (some) ancient Israel thought, without reference to punishments and rewards.

Shiksa : Derogatory Yiddish slang word for non-Jewish woman.

Shir Hashirim : The Song of Songs, written by King Solomon.

Shiva : Seven days of mourning after the burial of a close relative (as in, "to sit shiva"). Also the number seven.

Shloshim : An intermediate stage of 30 days of less severe mourning, including shiva.

Shofar : Ram's horn blown during the Jewish High Holy Days (Rosh Hashanah, Feast of Trumpets and Yom Kippur).

Shul : Yiddish word for synagogue.

Shulhan Aruch : Literally, "prepared table." A code of Jewish law attributed to Joseph Karo in 1565 CE, which became authoritative for classical Judaism.

Siddur : Hebrew and Jewish prayer book used for all days except special holidays.

Simcha : Simcha is the Hebrew and Yiddish word for joy. A joyous occasion is, therefore, a simcha which brings Nachas (palpable pride) to a qvelling (proud and delighted) family.

Simhat Torah : Literally, "rejoicing with the Torah." A festival which celebrates the conclusion of the annual reading cycle of the Torah.

Sofer : Used as a general designation for scholars and copyists in both talmudic and later literature; a "scholastic," a learned researcher whose vocation was the study and teaching of the tradition. In early times the sopher was the scholar. By the 1st century he was no longer a real scholar but a functionary and teacher of children.

Soul : The real spiritual substance created by Yahuah which, united to the body constitutes a person.

Sukkot : Seven-day Hebrew / Jewish fall festival beginning on Tishrei 15 commemorating the sukkot where Israel lived in the wilderness after the Exodus ( Shemot ); also known as hag haasiph, the Festival of Ingathering (of the harvest).

Synagogue : House of Messianic Hebrew and Jewish Worship.

Tallit : A fringed prayer shawl worn during morning worship service. The fringes are reminders of the 613 mitzvót in the Torah. It is customary, though not required, for a boy to wear a tallit at his Bar Mitzvah. Girls do not customarily wear a tallit, but there is no statute against their doing so.

Talmud : The collection of writings constituting the Jewish civil and religious law. It consists of two parts, the Misnah (text) and the Gemara (commentary). A major part of the Oral Tradition, that encompasses the legal aspects of Jewish life.

Tanakh : A relatively modern acronym for the Jewish Bible, made up of the names of the three parts Torah (Pentateuch or Law), Nevi 'im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings) thus TNK pronounced TaNaK.

Tanna : A Jewish sage from the period of Hillel (around the turn of the era) to the compilation of the Mishnah (200 CE), distinguished from later amoraim. Tannaim were primarily scholars and teachers. The Mishnah, Tosefta, and halakic Midrashim were among their literary achievements.

Targum : Literally, "translation, interpretation." Generally used to designate Aramaic translations of the Jewish scriptures.

Tashlich : The Hebrew word means "to send, to cast out." This is the special ceremony on Rosh Hashanah afternoon in which Jews symbolically cast their sins (in the form of bread crumbs) into a body of flowing water. Messianic Hebrew submerge themselves in a body of living water such as a Stream, River, Pond (with fish in it) Lake, Ocean or Mikvah, before performing the fore minion ceremony.

Tefillin : Usually translated as "phylacteries." Box-like appurtenances that accompany prayer, worn by Jewish adult males at the weekday morning services. The boxes have leather thongs attached and contain scriptural excerpts. One box (with four sections) is placed on the head, the other (with one section) is placed (customarily) on the left arm, near the heart. The biblical passages emphasize the unity of Yahuah and the duty to love Yahuah and be mindful of him with "all one's heart and mind" (e.g. Exodus ( Shemot ). 13.1-10, 11-16; Deuteronomy 6.4-9; 11.13-21).

Temple : In the ancient world, temples were the centers of outward religious life, places at which public religious observances were normally conducted by the priestly professionals. In traditional Judaism, the only legitimate Temple was the one in Jerusalem, built first by king Solomon around 950 BCE, destroyed by Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar around 587/6 BCE, and rebuilt about 70 years later. It was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The site of the ancient Jewish Temple is, though to be, now occupied, in part, by the golden domed "Dome of the Rock" Mosque. In recent times, "temple" has come to be used synonymously with synagogue in some Jewish usage.

Teshuvah : The Hebrew word for "repentance," which literally means "turning" away from sin, towards the good. It is the central goal of the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Theology : The study of Yahuah and the relations between Yahuah and the universe.

Tisha B'Av : The ninth of the Hebrew month Av. A 25 hour fast day that commemorates the destruction of both 1st and 2nd Temples.

Torah : The five Books of Moses, which encompasses both the oral and written traditions of the Jewish people. Torahs are stored in the Ark. The Torah is divided into 54 sidrot and read in the synagogue in the course of one Hebrew year.

Tosefa : Tannaitic supplements to the Mishnah. Called beraita (extraneous material) in the Talmud. Plural Tosafot.

Tu B'Av : The fifteenth of the Hebrew month Av. A day that is traditionally associated with the engagements of young men and women.

Tzaddik : Literally, "righteous one." A general term for a righteous person in Jewish tradition. More specifically, the spiritual leader of the modern Hasidim, popularly known as Rabbe or Rebbe.

Tzedakah : Literally, "righteousness." Term in Judaism usually applied to deeds of charity and philanthropy.

Tzelem Elokim : Literally, in the Image of Hashem. ( Not proper to use this word.)

Weekly Sabbath : A period of time from sun set Friday to sun set Saturday.

Ya'acov : Jacob, the 3rd of the three Patriarchs.

Yahrtzeit : Anniversary of a person's death. A prayer is said, then a candle is lit in memory of the departed one that burns for 24 hours (From sunset to sunset).

Yamim Nor'aim : Days of Awe. The Hebrew name for the High Holy Days.

Yeshiva : A Talmudic academy.

Yetzer : A technical Hebrew term for human "inclination" to do good (yetzer ha-tov) or to do evil (yetzer ha-ra).

Yiddish : Uses the same alphabet as Hebrew but is a blend of Hebrew and several European languages, primarily German. Yiddish was the vernacular of East European and Russian Jews. Once considered "dead," there has been a mini revival over the last two decades.

Yigdal : A hymn/chant/poem from 11th century or earlier, frequently found at the beginning or end of the Jewish or Messianic Hebrew prayer book (Siddur).

Yirah : Awe.

Yahisrael : Israel, also a term that denotes Jacob (Abraham and Isaac both had other son's that did not carry the traditions of their fathers. Jacob's 12 son's and their descendants carry with them the teachings of Jacob/Israel. Hence, the children of Israel). Can be used to mean the nation of Israel, or the land of Israel.

Yizkor : "Remembrance." It is the name of the Memorial Service on Yom Kippur, and a prayer in that service in which we specify those whom we are remembering.

Yom Kippur : Day of Atonement. Falls on the 10th of Tishrei and is observed by fasting and prayer, emphasizing repentance. The last day of the High Holy Days (Days of Awe) that is considered the holiest day of the year after Shabbat. Yom Kippur falls ten days after Rosh Hashanah. The day is spent reflecting on your actions of the past year and asking forgiveness for your sins.

Zion: Another name for Israel.

Zionism : The movement supporting the Jewish national state of Israel. Considered by Jews as the National Liberation Movement of the Jewish people.

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