Making Ceremonial Objects Beautiful

In Judaism this is the concept of Hiddur Mitzvah. It is common knowledge that beautiful things contribute to human enjoyment. By adding the aesthetic dimension to ceremonial objects and traditions, "Hiddur Mitzvah," we add depth and meaning to the religious requests and make it more than just a command but an act of love and understanding.

It is not in the objects or projects themselves that the holiness resides, but rather in the opportunity to focus our attention, our prayers, our offerings the essence of creating holy space. "If you make me a holy space I will dwell among you, within you" Terumah (Exodus 25:8). It is our care, our intention, our devotion, our blessings to carry out mitzvot that make these beautiful, artistically designed ceremonial objects valuable and important.

The first Challah cover I created was commissioned by and features a poem by, Norman J. Pressman, one of our clients.

I designed these Judaica Shabbat Challah Covers, painted the art and produced them by printing them on cotton silk. They have a Batiste backing and are machine washable. You can find them by going to www.givingquilts.com/challah.php