Glossary of Terms
Halakhah
The laws and norms that have evolved over millennia to regulate religious observances and the daily conduct of Jewish people and communities. (Literally, “the way.” Adjective: Halakhic.)
Matrilineal Jew
One whose Jewish status is derived from the fact that their biological mother is Jewish, irrespective of whether their father is Jewish. This is the halakhic position to which BJ remains committed.
Patrilineal Jew
One who claims Jewish status based on the fact that their biological father, and not their mother, is Jewish.
Klal Yisrael
A term for the Jewish people that connotes unity and fellowship.
Siddur
Prayer book
Kippah
Yarmulke or head covering
Tallit
Prayer shawl
Tefillin
Phylacteries
Aliyah
Approaching and blessing the Torah while it is chanted during services. (Literally, “an ascension or going up.”)
Brit Milah
Ritual circumcision
Hatafat Dam Brit
A symbolic drawing a drop of blood from the penis for those converting to Judaism who have already been circumcised.
Mohalim/Mohalot
Those trained to perform a ritual circumcision.
Tahara
The ritual preparation of a dead body for burial.