Jewish Traditions

Seven pillars to Judaism

Mezuzah:

The parchment

Is a piece of parchment (often contained in a decorative case) inscribed with specified Hebrew verses from the Torah.A mezuzah is affixed to the doorframe in Jewish homes to fulfill the mitzvah (Biblical commandment) to inscribe the words of the Shema "on the doorposts of your house". Some interpret Jewish law to require a mezuzah on every doorway in the home apart from bathrooms, and closets too small to qualify as rooms. The parchment is prepared by a qualified scribe (a "sofer stam") who has undergone many years of meticulous training, and the verses are written in blackindelible ink with a special quill pen. The parchment is then rolled up and placed inside the case.

Tefillin:

Tefillin

Are a set of small black leather boxes containing scrolls of parchment inscribed with verses from the Torah, which are worn by observant Jews during weekday morning prayers.  Jewish men are required to place one box on their head and tie the other one on their arm each weekday morning.

Shofar

Shofar:

The shofar dates back to ancient times when making loud noises on the New Year was thought to scare off demons and ensure a happy start to the coming year. It was used to announce the start of holidays, in processions and even to mark the start of a war.the sound of the shofar on Rosh HaShanah is meant to wake up soul and turn its attention to the important task of repentance.

Hanukkah:

Hanukiah

Is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar.The festival is observed by the kindling of the lights of a unique candelabrum, the nine-branched Menorah or Hanukiah, one additional light on each night of the holiday, progressing to eight on the final night. 

Kosher:

Means approved and represents the dietetic laws that are find in the Bible. There are some rules to follow. Is forbidden to eat meat taken from an animal. Is forbidden to drink blood. The meat must be sliced with different knifes from vegetables.

Tzedakah:

It refers to the religious obligation to do what is right and just, which Judaism emphasises are important parts of living a spiritual life. most Jews carry out tzedakah by donating a portion of their income to charitable institutions, or to needy people that they may encounter; the perception among many modern day Jews is that if donation of this form is not possible, the obligation of tzedakah still requires that something be given. Traditional Jews commonly practice "ma'aser kesafim," tithing 10% of their income to support those in need.

Sabbath:

 Is generally a weekly day of rest or time of worship observed in Abrahamic religions and other practices.It means day of rest,also came to mean simply a "se'nnight" or seven-day week, the interval between two weekly Sabbaths.

Founts:

wikipedia.com

jewishvirtuallibrary.org

judaism.about.com