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The Kiddush cup is a common symbol of Shabbat (i.e. the Jewish Sabbath). The purpose of it is connected to the recitation of Kiddush. The Hebrew word Kiddush is derived from the Hebrew word Kedushah, which means holiness, separation, or distinction. The recitation of Kiddush marks the special nature of the Sabbath.

In traditional Judaism, the Sabbath is considered to be set apart from the rest of the days of the week. The Torah commands “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.” Kiddush is a ceremony which marks the holiness of the Sabbath. The Talmud understands this to means that the holiness of the Sabbath must be stated verbally.

Reciting or singing it is considered a positive commandment or mitzvah. Men and women are obligated to recite it, though in a married household, the husband will recite it. While reciting it is the most important element, a custom from the early rabbinic period sees the act of sanctification as being tied to saying blessing for a glass of wine before the evening meal. The drinking of wine, in addition to some additional paragraphs makes up what is known as the Friday evening Kiddush.

According to the Talmud, Kiddush can be traced back to ancient times. Discussions dating from the first century of the Common Era on the subject of Kiddush make it clear that the ritual is ancient.

On Friday evening, two loaves of Challah are laid on the table in memory of the double portion of manna that was gathered on Friday. For most communities, Kiddush can only be recited at the place where the meal is to be eaten. Some communities to pronounce Kiddush at the end of the evening service in the synagogue.

Although the Talmud states that strong alcoholic drinks other than wine are not “ideal”for the Kiddush , such drink, out of necessity, once took the place of wine in northeastern European Jewish communities. It is regarded, however, as more dignified, where wine is not available, to pronounce the Kiddush over the bread than to substitute beer or brandy.

It is customary to recite the Biblical passage of Genesis. 2: 1-3, which details the act of creation, before reciting Kiddush. This is in keeping with the Talmudic dictum that one who recites it makes himself, in a sense, a partner with God in the act of creation.

A Kiddush cup is used in a variety of other ceremonies where drinking wine is appropriate. These includes Havdalah (the ceremony demarcating the end of the Sabbath from the new week), as well as at weddings ceremonies.

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