R

Rabbi - Title given to an individual ordained as an authority of Jewish Law. In the Reform Movement women may be ordained as Rabbis.

Reconstructionism - A movement within Judaism dating from the 1930s.
(See also Judaism)

Reform Judaism - Movement begun in 19th century Germany.
(See also Judaism)

S

Seder - The Passover meal when families gather to read the Haggadah, which tells the story of the Jews' exodus from Egypt. Tradition dictates that no one should be left alone without a seder to attend, therefore it is customary to invite outsiders to partake in your seder ceremony.

Sephardic - In reference to Jews of Portuguese or Spanish descent.
(see also Judaism)

Shabbat - The weekly observation of a day of rest. Celebrated from Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown. It is customary to attend synagogue to hear the reading of the week's Torah portion on Shabbat.

Shalom - Hebrew word meaning peace, hello, and goodbye.

Shamash - The master light on a Hanukiah, used to kindle the other lights for Chanukah.

Shema - One of the most important Jewish prayers which speaks to the Jewish people and tells them what they have to do.

Shivah - Seven day period (or three days in Reform Judaism) of formal mourning when a family gathers to grieve for a loved one who has died.

Shofar - Ram's horn sounded during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services.

Siddur - Term for daily prayer book.

Skullcap - see Yarmulke

Spice Boxes - Used during Havdalah services, Spice Boxes hold sweet smelling spices which console one for Shabbat's passing.

Star of David - see Magen David

Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom

Synagogue - Jewish place of worship.

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