The Kiddush cup is a special goblet that is used for blessing wine on Sabbath and holidays. Usually, this Cup is made of sterling silver and decorated with grapes. The Kiddush Cup must be perfect, without any cracks and nicks, clean and contain at least 86 ml of liquid.

“Kiddush” is a Hebrew word that means “consecration”, or “sanctification”.

Kiddush is a special prayer for the Sabbath or other holiday which is read over the wine that fills the Kiddush Cup.

Before use, it must be cleaned inside and outside thoroughly. The cup should be filled with wine to its brim.

It is accustomed to take the cup with the right hand, then to pass it to the left hand and lower it to the palm of the right hand. Four fingers of the right hand should be slightly bent and the thumb should be positioned at the palm’s level.

Here are the words of the Kiddush over the wine in English:

“Blessed are you, O Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and has been pleased with us; in love and favor has given us His holy Sabbath as a heritage, a memorial of the creation – that day being also the first among the holy festivals, in remembrance of the exodus from Egypt. You have chosen us and hallowed us above all nations, and in love and favor hast given us thy holy Sabbath as a heritage. Blessed are you, O Lord, who sanctifies the Sabbath.”