Kippah's and headscarves available in the welcome center for those who
feel led to wear them.
(Not Required)



ABOUT US



Welcome to Beit Shofarot Messianic Synagogue in Kannapolis, NC. Beit Shofarot, which means in Hebrew, House of Shofars (or trumpets), has a passion and commitment to our Jewish Messiah as well as our Jewish heritage combining both to see a community filled and touched by the presence of Adonai.

At Beit Shofarot we realize that there is only one you and that one you deserves something more than just being a number on a tally sheet to show how much we have grown. The reality is that we believe that while each person is intrinsically placed on this earth for a purpose that that purpose is best fulfilled within the framework of a faith community. We strive to be that community where Jewish and Non-Jewish peoples come together to honor the GREAT I AM!

Beit Shofarot therefore is not just a Worship Center, and not only a house of prayer, but a house of gathering. We are dedicated to helping people return to Scripture based on Torah-truths and to a personal (redemption) and satisfying relationship with the Creator of the universe, first to the Jew and then the non-Jew in need of a place and information on how to be righteous according to the teachings of the Torah and King Messiah.


WHAT ARE SERVICES ARE LIKE



Many who come to Beit Shofarot would tell you that you never come to just visit Beit Shofarot, but to experience Beit Shofarot. We are not your normal “Sunday Go To Meeting House” nor are we a traditional Synagogue. In fact…in comparison to many Messianic Jewish Houses of Worship we differ as well. We like to think of ourselves as unique and Spirit led.


Obviously there are going to be nuances of some of the traditional Synagogues and there may even be some things that will seem familiar to the Church, but we believe that the overall effect of our services will take you on a journey to the Father’s House.


It is not our desire to have you come in and be blessed necessarily. What we do desire is for you to attend and see that we are a house that blesses the only ONE that is worthy of blessing…our Lord and Redeemer! An old Church adage says that “it’s not about us, it is about HIM!” At Beit Shofarot we truly believe in that concept and work towards giving HIM all the glory!


Our services start with the sounds of the shofar. From that point forward we begin a journey to understanding the ways of our L-RD and what HIS desire is for us as HIS people. As we embark on this journey we remember the faithfulness of our Father through praise and prayers.


Among the oldest hymns known to man is Michamocha (Who is like You) which was one of the songs sung as the b’nai (children) of Israel crossed over the Reed Sea. It is with this song that we turn our thoughts towards giving praise and worship to the ONE TRUE G-D of Israel and the world. Our Cantorial Staff provides a road map to the ancient ways while our live Praise and Worship Team leads us into the path of celebration and honoring of the Father. Our Dance Team (Shevakh La’el) guide our footsteps closer to the covenantal joy that we share in knowing our Redeemer. Our services are in Hebrew and Aramaic and is translated to the English so that all can participate in the joy of serving our L-RD. As the ARK is opened the Word of G-d is revealed and we are transported by His Holy Word into the very heart of our Father.



DRESS CODE



You’re not required to wear dressy or expensive clothes, simply modest and clean clothing. You’re supposed to dress in a way that is pure and not distracting. Some men wear a kippah to remind them that G-d is above them (We have some to borrow at the Congregation). Some women wear snoods, scarves* etc. Devarim (Deuteronomy) 22:5 Vayikra (Leviticus) 10:6 Shemot (Exodus) 28:2. *However none of these are required at Beit Shofarot.*


RULES OF THE HOUSE



When the congregation stands, please stand.If at all possible, do not leave or enter the sanctuary when the Ark is open.Participate in whichever prayers you are comfortable reciting.Never put the books on the floor they are holy books.Set your phones to vibrate if you need to be contacted otherwise, please set cell phones to silent or cut them completely off.


DESIRE TO SERVE HIS COMMUNITY



  • To provide a welcoming place for prayer and worship in the Messianic Jewish tradition (Beit Tefillah).
  • To educate our members in the principles and ideals of Messianic Judaism (Beit Midrash).
  • To provide a gathering place for life cycle events, holy days, festivals, and the celebration of Jewish culture (Beit Knesset).
  • To act responsibly as a member of the community at large and improve the welfare of others (Tikkun Olam).
  • Reveal first to the people of Israel, and also to the world, the true identity of Yeshua the Messiah.
  • Call the brothers and sisters in the Body of Messiah to the proper understanding of G-d’s covenant promises to Israel and their restoration.
  • Support Israel and the Jewish people in opposing all acts of hatred against them.


A BIT OF HISTORY



In the words found in the 24th chapter of Sh’mot (Exodus), “Na’aseh Venishmah” which means “let us do and let us understand” in regard to building a place where G-d would dwell, we seek to grow as He leads us. In 2009 Beit Shofarot was founded as a twice a month Jewish Roots group meeting in Salisbury, NC. Then, in April of 2010 (5770) it was decided that we should become a full time congregation meeting on Shabbat (Saturday) mornings. Since that time we have grown from a struggling congregation to a stable synagogue that has a great vision towards doing the work that HaShem has placed before us. You will find at Beit Shofarot, a desire to know the things of G-d and then to put them into practice.



MISSION STATEMENT



We seek to be a congregational home for both Jewish and non-Jewish believers in Messiah Yeshua who are called into covenant community with one another, seeking to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of Heaven locally, in Israel and to the nations, within the framework of Messianic Judaism.

Jeremiah 31:31-37 Acts 2:42-47
Matthew 26:26-29 Acts 4:32-37
Matthew 28:19-20 Acts 21:20
Mark 1:14-15 Romans 11:11-36
Luke 4:42-44
Ephesians 2:11-37 We Exist…

* To worship and serve the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to proclaim Yeshua (Jesus of Nazareth) as the Messiah of Israel and the whole earth.

* To foster spiritual growth, develop strong and mature believers in Yeshua, and develop a caring community in Yeshua who will serve one another in love and reflect the love of God for all people.

* To identify as natural and adopted members with the community of Jewish people throughout the earth and to assist in worthwhile Jewish causes through practical participation.

* To maintain, cultivate and pass on a Messianic Jewish calling and expression of our faith in Yeshua by observing the Sabbath, keeping the Feasts, and embracing the covenantal responsibility of Jewish life and identity that is rooted in Torah, expressed in tradition, and renewed and applied in the context of the New Covenant.

* To share our faith in Yeshua by word and deed, to our Jewish people as well as all peoples.

*To identify with the overall Body of Messiah, to share a vision with and to train churches in the Jewish roots of our faith as well as to our calling and responsibility to love, pray for, support and witness to the Jewish people and Israel.

* To be part of the end times restoration movement of the nation of Israel culminating in the final return of Yeshua and to support through prayer, finances and other resources, ministries that are committed to this end.

* To impact our local and regional communities for good through charitable giving, involvement in community programs, and practical activities that promote biblically sound principles for a healthy society.


FAQS



1. What is Beit Shofarot?
Beit Shofarot is a Messianic Jewish synagogue. Beit Shofarot literally means “House of Shofars (or Trumpets).” 1. (a) Is Beit Shofarot a Two House, House of Ephraim or House of Israel Congregation? No. Beit Shofarot is not a part of any of these organizations, but is in very many ways much like the congregations associated with the IAMCS (International Association of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues)..”

2. What is a Messianic Jewish synagogue? A Messianic Jewish synagogue is a community of Jewish and non-Jewish believers in the Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) where the expression of that faith and worship is distinctly Jewish.

3. What is Messianic Judaism? Messianic Judaism is a resurrection of the first century expression of faith in Messiah Yeshua. Since the New Covenant was given in a Jewish context, it is best understood in that context. Beit Shofarot has congregants from a number of different religious backgrounds in addition to the main branches of Judaism.

4. What exactly is a Messianic Jew? A Messianic Jew is a physical descendant of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who is joined by faith to Yeshua, the Messiah of Israel.

5. Does Beit Shofarot try to make everyone a Jew? No. Believing that people should remain as they are, we do not practice ritual conversion. However, it is also understood that, given the calling of God upon Beit Shofarot to a distinctly Jewish expression, those committed to this congregation should have a desire to live out their lives in a manner keeping with that calling.

6. Is it only for Jewish people? Are Non- Jewish believers in the Messiah Yeshua welcome? Beit Shofarot is a house of worship for Jewish and non-Jewish people alike. Jewish and non-Jewish people are equally in need of God’s one provision of atonement in the Messiah Yeshua. In the Messiah, both are equally a part of the Body of Messiah and are beloved of God. All are welcome.

7. Since Jewish and non-Jewish believers are equal before God, why then have a distinctly Jewish-oriented congregation? It is a historical reality that people assemble with others of like culture, language and tradition. Rather than assimilating into the Non-Jewish dominated churches the Jewish believer can worship God and practice his Messiah-centered faith in a context that respects Jewish life and tradition. Unlike in the Non-Jewish Church our congregants can bar/bat mitzvah their children, observe the Jewish life-cycle events and biblical holy days, follow the weekly Torah readings, etc. Maintaining one’s Jewish heritage is a distinct calling not to be cast off when becoming a follower of Yeshua. Messiah does not ask us to stop being male or female, black or white, Jewish or Non-Jewish, etc. The New Covenant refers to Messianic Jews as a “remnant” within Israel who are “chosen by grace” (Rom. 11:5). As such we must maintain that Jewish identity.

8. Why would a non-Jewish believer want to be involved with a Messianic Jewish synagogue? Non-Jewish followers of Messiah join for various reasons, including: To stand with Israel, to embrace the Jewish roots of the New Covenant, and to show their love for Israel and the Jewish people. Some join because they have a “Ruth calling” in which they feel that God wants them to live as Jews, while some simply find great fulfillment and personal enrichment by observing things such as Sabbath and Biblical holidays.

9. Why do you have services on Saturday? The seventh-day Sabbath was given to Israel as a perpetual observance in the Mosaic Covenant (Ex. 31:16-17).

10. What are the worship services like? Traditional liturgies, heartfelt messages, and a contemporary Messianic worship service, presents a balanced blend of past and present that encapsulates the needs of today’s believers. Following the morning (Shacharit) services there is an oneg (a time of fellowship and a meal) and the opportunity for visitors to ask any questions that they may be curious about from our congregational leader and others in the body. (We also offer a variety of classes for all ages both in the morning before services and in the afternoon).

11. What is Oneg Shabbat & Kiddush? Oneg Shabbat means “delight of the Sabbath.” At Beit Shofarot it is a special time of food and fellowship. Visitors are welcome to participate in this “pot-bless” time of meeting new people and being encouraged in your faith by other believers. The food for the Oneg must be kosher (clean) by Biblical standards therefore, pork products, shellfish and anything containing animal fat or lard are not allowed.

12. How is Beit Shofarot governed? Beit Shofarot is primarily a theocratic congregation governed by its Rabbi with the assistance of the Board of Z’keinim and Shamashim (Elders and Deacons). The Congregational Leader, or Rabbi, carries the primary responsibility for teaching and daily ministry needs. The Board shares in responsibility as overseers of the congregation’s finances, general spiritual life, and administrative affairs. The Leadership Board, Budget Committee, office staff, ministry leaders and others share in carrying out the work of ministry as is delegated to them. In matters affecting the community as a whole, congregational meetings will be held (at least twice a year) to give financial reports, current state of affairs, and address any issues as needed.

13. Apart from the Jewish elements, what are some of the goals and objectives of Beit Shofarot? We seek to be a congregational home(s) for both Jewish and non-Jewish believers in Messiah Yeshua who are called into covenant community with one another, seeking to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of Heaven locally, in Israel and to the nations, within the framework of Messianic Judaism (Ephesians 2:11-3:7 Acts 2:42-47 4:32-37 Matthew 26:26-29 Jeremiah 31:31-37 Romans 11:11-36 Acts 21:20 Luke 4:42-44 Mark 1:14-15 Matthew 28:19-20). We also believe in promoting biblical worship, prayer, covenant relationships, and personal holiness. We desire to create a school and Yeshivah for higher learning.

14. Why do the men wear head-coverings and prayer-shawls? These are traditional items of Jewish life, history and worship. The shawl is called a “tallit” and the small round cap is called a “kippah” (Hebrew for “covering”) or “yarmulke” (Yiddish for “reverence the king”). All males worshipping with Beit Shofarot are encouraged to wear one or both of these items, but the conscience of each individual is respected in this matter. Women, likewise, may use or not use appropriate head-coverings as their conscience allows.

15. Is Beit Shofarot a Jewish mission or Para church ministry like “Jews for Jesus”? No. Jews for Jesus is an evangelistic organization based in California. Unfortunately, the term “Jews for Jesus” is considered a derogatory term within the Jewish community much like others use the terms “Jesus freak” or “holy roller.” Beit Shofarot and Messianic Judaism are more like a Messiah-centered branch of Judaism with its own rabbis, centers of learning, materials, congregational confederations, etc.

16. Does Beit Shofarot practice water baptism and the Lord’s Supper? Yes. Immersion in water is practiced as a sign of one’s beginning a new life of devotion to Messiah, and the Lord’s Supper is observed during Pesach where Messiah said, “As often as you do this do it in remembrance of Me.”(I Cr. 11:25) Water Baptism (t’villah) has its roots in the Jewish rite of the “mikveh” (ceremonial washing) and the Lord’s Supper (shulchan Adonai) has its roots in the Jewish rite of Passover.

17. What distinctly Jewish elements are incorporated into congregational life and worship? Just to mention a few: Shabbat observance, kashrut (keeping Mosaic dietary laws), identification with Israel as the Jewish homeland, Jewish liturgical worship, Jewish dance, use of the Hebrew language, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, traditional dress (kippot and tallitot), and observing the Jewish holy days.

18. Do you pass a collection plate? Money is rarely stressed during services and no “collection plate” is regularly passed. An offering box is located in the back of the sanctuary for the reception of tithes and offerings similar to the days of the Second Temple. Occasionally an offering basket may be passed for special offerings or guest speakers.

19. What is Beit Shofarot’s attitude toward other congregations or churches? “There is one Lord, one faith, one immersion” and “one body” (Eph 4:4,5). Beit Shofarot cooperates with other congregations who share faith in the Messiah Yeshua. We seek to build bridges between churches and the Jewish people, fostering love for Israel, repudiating anti-Semitism, educating churches about the Jewish roots of the Christian faith and being a resource to that end.

20. Other than Shabbat services, what are some of the other services/gatherings that Beit Shofarot has? 1) Corporate prayer gatherings 2) Bible studies 3) Praise services 4) Men’s meetings are held monthly. 5) Women’s meetings are held monthly. 6) Topical studies 7) Hebrew classes 8) Special services are held for both Biblical and traditional Jewish holidays, e.g. Passover, Shavuot (Pentecost), Rosh Hashanah (Feast of Trumpets), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), Hanukkah (Feast of Dedication) and Purim (Feast of Esther) as well as Jewish holidays such as Yom Hashua (Holocaust Remembrance). 9) Torah study 10) Shabbat School

21. What does Beit Shofarot offer for children? Beit Shofarot believes that the children are the foundation of our future. Bearing that in mind, we currently offer classes for children after Oneg. Afternoon classes encapsulate an understanding of the Hebrew language with a hope that our children will grow up bi-lingual and will be prepared for the eventuality of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

22. Does Beit Shofarot offer Bar/Bat Mitzvah for the children? Yes. Bar and Bat Mitzvah (Son of/Daughter of the Commandment) is available. This ceremony recognizes the time of life when a boy (age 13) or girl (age 12) becomes responsible to follow God and obey the commandments. Children begin to prepare approximately one year prior to their respective birthdays. Training is centered on learning God’s Word as it pertains to a personal relationship with Him through the Messiah Yeshua. Also included is training in Hebrew language, liturgy, and chants for Scripture portions as well as various aspects of Jewish history and tradition.

23. How does one learn the special dances of the Shabbat service? Davidic worship dance classes are offered bi-weekly. We also offer a dance practice at 9:30 on Shabbat mornings. Those wishing to participate should contact us at beitshofarot@gmail.com.

24. Does Beit Shofarot offer Hebrew classes? Yes. Hebrew classes are offered periodically and Hebrew training is available to anyone who wishes, both children and adults.

25. How does one become a member of Beit Shofarot? Beit Shofarot does not keep actual membership roles. However to participate as an active part of the congregation, the following requirements are expected…
A. Must profess and acknowledge that Yeshua is his or her personal Redeemer and that He is indeed the Messiah of Israel and is Deity.
B. Must be willing to submit him or herself to the L-rd, to the Eldership of the Congregation, and to the other members of the Congregation respectively.
C. Must be willing to support Beit Shofarot with his or her prayers, tithes and offerings, and other resources as Adonai leads and he/she is able.
D. Must be willing to present him or herself for the believer’s immersion (mikvah/t’villah) as a sign of obedience to God. (This applies only to new believers or those who have not been baptized.)
E. Must successfully complete whatever course of instruction the board may elect to require in order to be able to serve in the Congregation. (A transfer congregant shall also provide a letter of reference from the leadership of his or her past congregation unless released from this obligation by a specific decision of the Rabbi and/or Board).
F. Must be at least 18 years of age or have a written consent from a parent or guardian and must agree with our Purpose, Vision and Faith Statements. If the applicant is married but his/her believing spouse is not participating, that spouse must be in agreement and supportive of the congregants’ decision. It is the desire of the Rabbi and the Board that there be no division within the family. The Congregation shall not discriminate against race, national origin or gender in the acceptance of new congregants.

26. How long has Beit Shofarot and Messianic Judaism been around? For hundreds of years after Messiah came, there were many Jewish Christians, called Nazarenes, but the movement slowly diminished and disappeared. In the late 19th century there again arose a small number of these believers, who were called Hebrew Christians during that era. In the late 1960’s and 70’s the movement exploded, leading to the formation of congregations and institutions. In May of 2008 Beit Shofarot was launched as a small Bible Study teaching on the foundations of the Jewish roots in the Christian faith. Not until February of 2009 was Beit Shofarot formally established as an Associate Congregation leading to the April, 2010 status of Congregation.

27. What should I wear to Shabbat services? Beit Shofarot has no direct requirements except that one should dress modestly. Our congregants dress in a variety of styles including suits/ties/dresses/etc as well as casual to business casual. Others opt to wear jeans and such. We do request that you remember that this is a House of Worship and that you refrain from wearing mini dresses/skirts or apparel that reveal too much cleavage. Also, for Shabbat services we request that jeans, trousers or skirts/dresses be worn in lieu of shorts. We appreciate your willingness to honor the House of Adonai.


TERMINOLOGY



Aliyah (uh-LEE-uh ah-lee-AH) Lit. ascension.
Reading from the Torah or reciting a blessing over the reading during services,. Also, immigrating to Israel.

Amidah (ah-MEE-duh) Lit. standing. A prayer recited while standing, facing East toward Jerusalem. Also known as the Shemoneh Esrei.

ArkThe holy chest, also known as the Aron Chodesh, where the Torah scrolls are kept.

Bar Mitzvah (BAHR MITS-vuh) Lit. son of the commandment. A boy who has achieved the age of 13, and a ceremony marking the fact that a boy has achieved this age. Bat Mitzvah (BAHT MITS-vuh) Lit. daughter of the commandment. A girl who has achieved the age of 12 and a ceremony marking the fact that a girl has achieved this age.

Brit Milah (BRIT MEE-lah) Lit. covenant of circumcision. The ritual circumcision of a male Jewish child on the 8th day of his life. Also known as a bris.

Chag Sameach (KHAHG sah-MEHY-ahkh) Lit. joyous festival. A greeting for any holiday, but especially Sukkot (Tabernacles), Shavu’ot (Pentecost) and Pesach (Passover).

Chametz (KHUH-mitz) Lit. leaven. Leavened grain products, which may not be consumed during Passover a metaphor for sin.

Chuppah (KHU-puh) Lit. canopy or covering. The wedding canopy, symbolic of the groom’s home.

Counting of the Omer Lit. Omer-one tenth of an ephah. The counting of the days between Pesach (Passover) and Shavu’ot (Pentecost).

Days of Awe Ten days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, a time for introspection and teshuvah from the sin.

Diaspora Any place outside of the land of Israel where Jews live today, but historically, a reference to Jewish exile from Israel.

Dreidel A top-like toy used to play a traditional Hanukkah game.

Erev Lit. evening. The evening part of a day. A “day” on the Jewish calendar starts at sunset.

Etrog (ET-rohg) A citrus fruit grown in Israel and other parts of the Mediterranean, used during Sukkot.

G-d A way of avoiding writing a name of G-d, to avoid the risk of the sin of erasing or defacing the Name. The same principle leads us to write L-RD.

Haftarah (hahf-TOH-ruh) Lit. conclusion. A reading from the Prophets, read along with the weekly Torah portion.

Haggadah (huh-GAH-duh) The book read during the Passover Seder, telling the story of the holiday.

Ha-Shem (hah SHEM) Lit. The Name. The Name of G-d, which is not pronounced. The phrase “ha-Shem” is often used as a substitute for G-d’s Name.

Ha-Tikvah Lit. The Hope. The anthem of the Zionist movement and the state of Israel.

Havdalah (Hahv-DAH-luh) Lit. separation, division. A ritual marking the end of Shabbat or a holiday. Jewish Star The six-pointed star emblem commonly associated with Judaism, also known as the Magen David, the Shield of David or the Star of David.

Kaddish (KAH-dish) Aramaic: holy. A prayer in Aramaic praising G-d, commonly associated with mourning.

Ketubah (k’TOO-buh) Lit. writing. The Jewish marriage contract. Kippah (KEE-puh) The skullcap head covering worn by Jews during services, and by some Jews at all times, more commonly known as a yarmulke. Kittel

(KIT-‘l) The white robes in which the dead are buried, worn by some during Yom Kippur services. Kol Nidre

(KOHL NID-ray) Lit. all vows. The evening service of Yom Kippur, or the prayer that begins that service. L’Chayim

(l’-KHAHY-eem) Lit. to life. A common Jewish toast.

L’Shanah Tovah (li-SHAH-nuh TOH-vuh) Lit. for a good year. A common greeting during Rosh Hashanah and Days of Awe.

Lulav (LOO-lahv) Lit. palm branch. A collection of palm, myrtle and willow branches, used during Sukkot.

Machzor (MAHKH-zawr) A special prayer book for the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Mashiach (mah-SHEE-ahkh) Lit. anointed. Messiah. Mazel Tov (MAHZ-z’l TAWV) Lit. good luck. A way of expressing congratulations.

Megillah (m’-GILL-uh) Lit. scroll. One of five books of the Bible (Esther, Ruth, Song of Songs, Lamentations, and Ecclesiastes).

Menorah (m’-NAW-ruh) The seven-branched candelabrum used in the Temple.

Mezuzah (m’-ZOO-zuh) Lit. doorpost. A case attached to the doorposts of houses, containing a scroll with passages of scripture written on it. The procedure and prayers for affixing the mezuzah is available. Name of G-d Judaism has a wide variety of names for the Creator however, these names are not casually written down because of the risk that someone might destroy the writing, an act of disrespect for G-d and His Name.

Nikkud (pl. N’kkudim) A system of dots and dashes used to indicate vowels and other pronunciation in Hebrew.

Omer (OH-mayr) A unit of measure, often translated as “sheaf.” The period between Passover and Shavu’ot is known as the Omer period, because we count the days from the time that the first omer of barley was brought to the Temple.

Parshah (PAHR-shah) A weekly Torah portion read in synagogue.

Pesach (PEH-sahkh) Lit. exemption. One of the Shalosh R’galim (three pilgrimage festivals), or Moadim (appointed times) a holiday commemorating the Exodus from Egypt, known in English as Passover.

Purim (PAWR-im) Lit. lots (as in “lottery”). A holiday based on Esther’s account, celebrating the rescue of the Jews from extermination at the hands of Haman, the chief minister to the King of Persia.

Rebbetzin (REB-i-tsin) The wife of a rabbi.

Rosh Chodesh (ROHSH CHOH-desh) Lit. head of the month. The first day of a month, on which the first sliver of the new moon appears.

Rosh Hashanah (ROHSH hah SHAH-nuh) Lit. first of the year. The new year for the purpose of counting years.

Shabbat (shah-BAHT) Lit. end, cease, rest. The Jewish Sabbath, a day of rest and spiritual enrichment. Shabbat

Shalom (shah-BAHT shah-LOHM) Lit. sabbath peace or peaceful sabbath. A general, all-purpose Shabbat greeting. Shalom Aleikhem (shah-LOHM ah-ley-KHEM) Peace upon you. A traditional greeting. Shammus

(SHAH-mis) Lit. servant. 1) The candle that is used to light other Chanukkah candles

Siddur (SID-r) Lit. order. Prayer book

Sukkot (soo-KOHT)Lit. booths. One of the Shalosh R’galim (three pilgrimage festivals), or Moadim (appointed times).

The Feast of Tabernacles or the Festival of Ingathering.

Tallit (TAH-lit)A shawl-like garment worn during morning services, with tzitzit (long fringes) attached to the corners as a reminder of the commandments. Sometimes called a prayer shawl.

Tanakh (tuhn-AHKH)Acronym of Torah (Law), Nevi’im (Prophets) and Ketuvim (Writings).

Teshuvah (t’-SHOO-vuh) Lit. return. repentance.

Torah (TOH-ruh) The first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, sometimes called the Pentateuch or the Five Books of Moses.

Tzitzit (TZIT-sit) Fringes attached to the corners of garments as a reminder of the commandments. Yarmulke (YAH-mi-kuh) The skullcap head covering worn by men during services, and by some Jews at all times.

Yom Ha-Shoah (YOHM hah shoh-AH)Holocaust Remembrance Day. Yom Kippur (YOHM ki-PAWR) Lit. Day of Atonement.