Tag: Women

Joanna Maria's Judaica > Blog > Women
Honoring Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: May Her Memory Be a Revolution!

Honoring Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: May Her Memory Be a Revolution!

On the first night of Rosh Hashanah, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has passed away.

Whenever a Jewish person passes, we remember them by saying “may their memory be a blessing”. We should use the same phrase in relation to Justice Ginsburg to honor her Jewish identity. But I, as do many more, feel that “blessing” just won’t cut it. It’s too soft, too mild. To truly celebrate the legacy of Justice Ginsburg, we need to do more – in her name.

Team Imahot! Who Are the Jewish Foremothers?

Team Imahot! Who Are the Jewish Foremothers?

In Jewish tradition, the first three generations of Abraham’s family are extremely important. Abraham was the first to hear the voice of God calling him to go to the Land of Canaan. God’s promise of making a huge nation of him was what started the Jewish nation. In a way, Abraham and Sarah were the first Jewish people.

Forefathers (Avot) and foremothers (Imahot) play a significant role in religious Jewish life. They aren’t limited to their stories in the Torah, but rather are evoked in many prayers, teachings, and blessings. Their lives serve as a source of wisdom and learning opportunities.

Hamsa: a Unique Jewish Talisman

Hamsa: a Unique Jewish Talisman

Hamsa (חַמְסָה) is a symbol, or an amulet in the shape of a hand. It is recognized as a symbol of God’s protection against the evil eye (ayin ha-rah) – hence there is often a shape of an eye in the middle of it. It’s a popular amulet across the Middle East and the Maghreb and can be seen used in decorations and jewelry. It also sometimes called the Hand of Fatima, the Hand of Mary or the Hand of Miriam.

Eshet Chayil: Woman of Valor

Eshet Chayil: Woman of Valor

Eshet Chayil is the much-beloved hymn to a Woman of Valor sung by King Salomon (Proverbs 31). This song is traditionally sung on Shabbat but is also considered the perfect poem to praise the perfect woman in your life. I’ve prepared designs with full texts of the hymn and quotes take out of it. Each item is the perfect design for decorating one’s home or to present as a gift – for your Shabbat hosts, for a bride, your Mom, a teacher, or a bat mitzvah.