How to buy a Kiddush Cup

Observant Jews say a blessing (Kiddush) over the wine that opens festive meals each Sabbath and on holidays. The Kiddush is also recited at the closing of the Sabbath in the Havdalah ceremony. This blessing may be said using any cup that holds at least a revi'it (about 76 ml) or according to other authorities, 150 ml. However, it is customary to use a specially decorated Kiddush cup made for this purpose. The cup may be made of porcelain, pewter or silver. Silver or silver-plated cups are generally washed with gold on the interior. Observant Jews need at least two such cups, since it is best to use a special cup for Passover. Some also use a separate Havdalah cup that may be part of a Hadvalah set.



Related Resources:

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Buy Kiddush cup online
Online store offering wide selection of Kiddush cups

Havdalah guide
Learn about havdalah at Judaica 101

Online Judaica Store
Wide selection of Jewish gifts

Selecting a Kiddush cup

1. Find a Judaica store online or offline. It should be a store that has a good reputation. Ask your rabbi or other knowledgeable people for recommendations. Compare prices between stores for cups of the same quality and weight.

2. Ensure the cup holds at least 150 ml or 76 ml according to your practice. 150 ml is an average sized cup.

3. Choose a distinctive and decorative kiddush cup. Select a special cup that does not look like an item you would use during the week.

4. The Kiddush cup should come with a matching coaster or base. This is important in the Havdalah ritual at the end of the Sabbath..

5. Try to select a quality cup that doesn't tarnish easily. Ordinary silver cups tarnish easily and need to be cleaned and polished.

6. You will probably want additional cups for Passover use, for Havdalah and to use as gifts.