A Kiddush cup is a central ritual object for any Jewish holiday, from weekly Shabbat celebrations to Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and more. With the help of a Kiddush cup, Jewish people honor God and sanctify holidays. After reciting the Kiddush and drinking from the Kiddush cup, holidays officially begin.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about Kiddush cups, including what Kiddush is, how Kiddush cups are used, and how to choose the perfect Kiddush cup for your home.
What is Kiddush?
In order to understand what a Kiddush cup is, it’s important to first understand the Jewish practice of Kiddush. Kiddush, Hebrew for “sanctification,” is one of the primary rituals in Judaism. It has two purposes: to thank God and sanctify the time that follows.
Depending on the holiday, Kiddush can happen slightly differently, but generally it follows the same process. First, a cup is filled with wine or grape juice. This cup is known as the Kiddush cup. Next, the Kiddush prayer is recited. Finally, the Kiddush cup is passed around so everyone can take a sip. After this ritual is recited, everyone has officially entered holy time.
Origins of Kiddush
The origins of the practice of Kiddush stretch back to sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE. Like today, it was common at the time to drink wine with a celebratory meal. The rabbis introduced Kiddush as a way to designate a holy meal from a simply celebratory meal.
Until the Middle Ages, Kiddush was largely reserved for meals in private spaces and was not recited in synagogues. As traveling away from home became more common, rabbis began to say Kiddush in synagogue so that travelers could still hear the blessings. Thus began today’s practice of Kiddush.
When is a Kiddush Cup Used?
Kiddush cups are used any time the Kiddush prayer is said. This may include any Jewish holiday, from the weekly Shabbat holiday to high holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Passover, and more. Read on to learn the differences between Kiddush on each of these holidays.
Shabbat Evening Kiddush
On Shabbat evening, three prayers are recited before drinking from the Kiddush cup. First, Torah verses about the holiness of Shabbat are recited. Then, a blessing is said over the wine in the Kiddush cup. Finally, a blessing is said to thank God for the gift of Shabbat.
Shabbat Morning Kiddush
Before the Shabbat daytime meal, commonly known as Kiddush or oneg, the Kiddush cup is filled once again. A blessing is said over the wine, then the meal is enjoyed.
High Holidays Kiddush
On high holidays like Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Kiddush cup is used again and slightly different prayers are said. The Kiddush said on high holidays is specific to the holiness and significance of each holiday. A prayer called the Shehecheyanu, which thanks God for special occasions, is also said.
What Makes a Cup a Kiddush Cup?
According to Jewish law, in order for a cup to be a Kiddush cup, it must meet the following standards:
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Size: A Kiddush cup must hold at least 3.8 fl. oz. of liquid.
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Condition: A Kiddush cup must not have cracks or holes.
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Cleanliness: A Kiddush cup must be clean.
According to these standards, there are no specific requirements regarding the material your cup is made from. While silver and ceramic kiddush cups are the most common, a glass or even a disposable cup is acceptable in a pinch.
Common Types of Kiddush Cups
While nearly any cup can be a Kiddush cup, some are more common than others. You may find the following when shopping for one:
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Silver Kiddush cup: Traditionally, many Kiddush cups are sterling silver. They’re long-lasting and can be passed down through the generations, but they have some requirements in terms of maintenance, like regular polishing.
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Ceramic Kiddush cups: Ceramic Kiddush cups are a modern alternative that fit with nearly any design style. Like silver Kiddush cups, they’re long lasting, but they don’t have the same requirements in terms of maintenance.
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Keepsake Kiddush cups: Kiddush cups are a common gift for bar mitzvahs, weddings, and other special occasions. These cups may feature engraved messages or special motifs that commemorate the occasion.
How to Choose the Right Kiddush Cup for Your Home
A Kiddush cup is a staple in any Jewish home. Not only does it get frequent use, but many Jewish families display their Kiddush cups as part of their home decor. If you plan to do so, it’s wise to choose a cup that blends with your home decor. Whether you have a traditional home or more modern, there’s a Kiddush cup that’s perfect for you.
Explore Kiddush Cups and Ritual Objects from Oneg Home
Whether you’re in the market for a Kiddush cup or any other Jewish ritual object, meet Oneg Home. Our selection of handmade ritual objects in contemporary designs bring your celebrations into modern day. Make celebrating Jewish holidays accessible and meaningful with Oneg Home.
Kiddush Cups: FAQs
What is a Kiddush cup?
A Kiddush cup is a Jewish ritual object that’s used while saying the Kiddush, a sanctification prayer. While any cup can be a Kiddush cup, it’s typically a special cup made from sterling silver or ceramic and reserved just for holidays.
What is a Kiddush cup used for?
A Kiddush cup is used to sanctify Jewish holidays. First, the cup is filled with grape juice or wine. Then, the Kiddush is recited. Finally, everyone takes a sip from the Kiddush cup. The time that follows this ritual is considered to be holy.
What does the Kiddush cup symbolize?
The practice of using the Kiddush cup stretches back to ancient times. It was used by rabbis to differentiate celebratory festivities from holy festivities. For celebrations, wine was consumed from a standard cup. For holy occasions, wine was consumed from a Kiddush cup.
Who drinks from the Kiddush cup?
Everyone drinks from the Kiddush cup, though typically adults and children drink from different Kiddush cups. The adults’ Kiddush cup is filled with wine, while the children’s is filled with grape juice.
How big should a Kiddush cup be?
According to Jewish law, a Kiddush cup should hold at least 3.8 fluid ounces of liquid.
Can you make Kiddush on a disposable cup?
Yes, you can make Kiddush on a disposable cup, as long as it’s not cracked or broken. Jewish law also allows Kiddush to be made on wine while it’s still in the bottle, if a cup isn’t available.
