Unique Jewish Gifts & Judaica

More than two thousand years ago the Jewish nation was largely expelled from the land of Israel. Since then, Jewish people have been scattered around the world, forced to create their own communities in exile. Throughout history, Diaspora Jews have lived mainly in Europe, some Arab countries, and, after the 20 th century immigration wave, also America. Many European Jews came back to the land of Israel after World War Two and established the state of Israel as a home for all Jews.

Jewish communities around the world have been influenced by the diverse cultures to which they were exposed. Inevitably, certain elements have integrated into the Jewish culture. At the same time, common narrative and symbols have preserved the unity of the Jewish people. In recent years, Judaica was developed as a popular way to express Jewish identity through art.

The Jewish narrative tells the history of a people that has always felt and expressed a deep nostalgia to the Jewish homeland and a strong connection to the Jewish heritage. In many places around the world, Jews were prosecuted because of their religious faith and lifestyle. Nonetheless, Jewish people all around the world stuck to their collective identity. Such Jewish motifs as the menorah or the Tallit (Jewish prayer shawl) have played a major role in preserving the religious, cultural and national identities of the Jewish Diaspora.

Supported by local and global interest and demand, today's Judaica artists embrace these elements in their work. Contemporary Judaica artists turn traditional religious articles, such as Shabbat candlesticks, into an artistic expression of faith. Judaica artists recreate ancient Jewish objects through a contemporary process, giving it a modern perspective. Unlike in previous eras, current Judaica artists offer bold and sometime even controversial interpretations of religious symbols. How about a mezuzah case that looks like a spaceship?

Through their artworks, Judaica designers seem to claim that even in our secular modern society, Judaism is still relevant and dynamic. These Judaica artworks cross the boundaries of the traditional assumptions about religious objects as simple and grave. Todays' Judaica artists make people think outside the box. Indeed, it is the sign of true art if people cannot remain indifferent to it.

In addition to causing this de-familiarization, the designers often choose to treat the ancient tradition with humor by using bright and cheery colors in their works. Such designs help the artwork stand out and delight the eye. In addition to owning the pieces for personal enjoyment, people love to give Judaica art as gifts that are original, decorative but also practical. For example, such gifts as designed Tallits, Hanukah menorahs, Torah pointers or candlesticks for a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah mark important moments in the lives of the receivers and symbolize transition into more active roles in religious life.

The combination of elements might explain the growing popularity of Judaica art in the last few years. Many Judaica items clearly reflect the ongoing changes in the modern Jewish society. Today, it is more common to find handmade Tallits that are designed for women. Another new ritualistic item is the Miriam's Cup. The Cup is p laced on the Seder table beside the traditional Cup of Elijah. Miriam's Cup reflects the significance of women in the story of Exodus. The water that fills the cup symbolizes Miriam's Well – a miraculous source of water that saved the Israelites in the desert. These new rituals are a reflection of a larger trend in many religious societies across the world today – a gradual evolution from patriarchy and embrace of modern and socially-conscious values, especially among the reforms.

Judaica art is not limited to religious articles. The Star of David that decorates the Tallit, also appears on the national flag of the state of Israel. Many Judaica designs incorporate this famous Jewish symbol. The Star of David has become a popular motif in Jewish jewelry making as so many people enjoy expressing their strong connection to the state of Israel.

In Israel, Judaica art provides a much needed space for diverse cultural influences. Esther Shahaf, an Israeli designer, is a great example of how different and sometimes conflicting elements intertwine harmoniously. In Shahaf's works, oriental influences such as the Semitic designs gracefully complement the Western motifs. Israeli artists also draw their inspiration from the everyday surroundings such as the landscape of Jerusalem. Among Israeli Judaica designs you can find mezuzah cases and other objects directly inspired by The Western Wall, a prominent motif that describes the mourning of the second temple that was destroyed more than two thousand years ago.

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