What is Kiddush?

This short video provides a playful but informative discussion about how and why we make Kiddush. Rabbi John Carrier of Reform Burbank Temple Emanuel explains that Jews sanctify sacred time ideally using wine, a vehicle for joy. This ritual does not change the wine in any way; with Kiddush we are actually blessing God and not the wine itself. Either men or women can make Kiddush in synagogue or at home. Rabbi Carrier recites the basic blessing in English and encourages viewers to fill up a cup with the fruit of the vine and make Kiddush on the next holy occasion. This video is part of Rabbi Carrier’s “Nice Jewish Words” series, which explains common words and phrases one hears in Jewish conversations and Jewish communities.