Halakhah
(Literally, “the way”) The laws and norms that have evolved over millennia to regulate religious observances and the daily conduct of Jewish people and communities. (“Halakhic”, adjective)
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
A prayer book.
Kippah
Yarmulke or head covering.
Tallit
Prayer shawl.
Tefillin
Phylacteries.
Aliyah
(Literally, “an ascension or going up”) Approaching and blessing the Torah while it is chanted during services.
Brit Milah
Ritual circumcision.
Hatafat Dam Brit
A symbolic drawing a drop of blood from the penis for those converting to Judaism who were already circumcised.
Mohalim/Mohalot
Those trained to perform a ritual circumcision.
Tahara
The ritual preparation of a dead body for burial.