Avinu Malkenu 2.mp3
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by Oshi Yuval
www.oshistyle.com
Brit FAQs
Brit Milah FAQ's
Why the Brit
8 days old
Article 3
Why the Brit
Why Do We Have a Circumcision?
Question:A friend asked the other day why we have a bris (circumcision). I rambled on about health, tradition, old people, eight days, pain and a whole lot of other nonsense before leaving this one to you.Answer:The bris is a physical symbol of the relationship between G-d and the Jewish people. It is a constant reminder of what the Jewish mission entails (a reminder which men need more than women). Let's look at its details:If circumcision is what G-d wants, why aren't we born circumcised? G-d created the world imperfect, and gave us the mission to perfect it. G-d created wheat, humans make bread. G-d created a jungle, humans create civilization. The raw materials are given to us, and we are to use our ingenuity to improve on the world that we were born into. This is symbolized by the bris -- we are born uncircumcised, and it is up to us to "finish the job". This is also true metaphorically. We each have instincts and natural tendencies that are inborn, but need to be refined. "I was born that way" does not excuse immoral behavior -- we are to cut away any negative traits, no matter how innate they may seem.Why on earth would G-d choose circumcision to represent something sacred? Jewish spirituality is about making the physical world holy. The way we eat, sleep, work and procreate should be imbued with the same holiness as the way we pray; our homes should be as sanctified as our synagogues. We find G-d on earth just as much (and perhaps more) than in the heavens. So we put a sign on the most physical and potentially lowly organ, to say that it can and should be used in a holy way. In fact, it is in sexuality that we can touch the deepest part of our soul, when we approach it with holiness.Why circumcise a baby? Wouldn't the statement be more powerful if it were made by a mature adult? The circumcision is performed when a child is still not aware of what is happening. This is because the Jewish connection to G-d is intrinsic -- whether our minds believe in G-d or not, whether our hearts love G-d or not, our souls know G-d. We can join the covenant with G-d even without being consciously aware of Him, because subconsciously we already know Him.Why specifically on the eighth day? The number seven represents nature - seven days of the week, seven colors of the rainbow, seven musical notes (doh re mi etc); the number eight is the number that surpasses seven, and thus represents the miraculous, what is beyond nature. We do the bris on the eighth day because the Jewish people survive on miracles. Our history defies the laws of nature. We welcome a new Jewish child into this miraculous existence on the eighth day of his life, as if to say, "Expect miracles!"
8 days old
Why wait eight days for the circumcision?
In stereotypical Jewish fashion, allow me please to answer your question through asking yet another question.Why can't the brit (circumcision) wait until the child grows older? Wouldn't it be that much greater if a mature person, using his own intelligence, would choose to make the big decision himself?But that's the beauty of a brit. We are born Jews. It is not a project we rationally decide to undertake. Our covenant with Gd is super-rational. It does not go away in moments when our minds tell us otherwise. We do not always comprehend the reasons behind the mitzvot.According to Kabbala, the number seven represents nature and that which is finite. Seven days in the week, seven days of creation, and seven human faculties.Eight represents the super-rational and the infinite. The miraculous as opposed to natural. Belief as opposed to comprehension.And so, a baby is given is brit on the eighth day. He is entering a religion founded upon faith, whose survival is miraculous, and whose potential in the world is infinite.Yours truly,Rabbi Yisroel Cotlar
Article 3
Isn't a Circumcision Barbaric?
By Aron MossQuestion:We had a baby boy, and we are very excited. But we are still undecided about the Brit. I have issues with it. I am aware of the spiritual significance of circumcision, but I have much more practical concerns:Is it not barbaric to put my baby through the pain of a medically unnecessary operation?He was born uncircumcised, why should I mess with his natural state?My son has no say in this, and can never reverse it. Shouldn't I let him choose later on in life if he wants this done to him?Do you have any rational answers?Answer:Imagine the following scenario. Your baby is born healthy and well. But there's something unusual. He has six fingers on each hand. An extra little growth protrudes right next to each pinkie.Can you think of anything more barbaric than chopping someone's fingers off?What would you do about it? Have the extra fingers surgically removed? Or leave them? After all, he was born that way. And he can live with twelve fingers. Maybe the child should be allowed to choose whether or not he wants his extra fingers later in life. Can you think of anything more barbaric than chopping someone's fingers off?And yet I suspect you would do what most parents have done in such circumstances. Better remove the extra fingers now, when it is relatively painless and quick to heal, than subject the child to feeling like an anomaly in his future life. He has no use for them anyway, and would later resent the fact that his parents didn't remove them for him.And so, kind and loving parents will unflinchingly put their babies under the surgeon's knife. The short term pain is worth it to avoid the long term discomfort. All other concerns would quickly dissolve. What is called barbaric in one context is quite humane in another.If this logic works for removing extra fingers, a purely cosmetic operation, how much more should it work in favor of the infinitely more meaningful act of circumcision. I am not suggesting that being uncircumcised is the same as being twelve-fingered. But for a Jewish child, there are several similarities.An uncircumcised Jew often feels like an outsider among his own people. He will always be a Jew, but may come to feel ambivalent about it, knowing that to actively embrace his Jewishness entails undergoing an operation - one that is minor at eight days old, but quite a bit more daunting in adulthood. I have attended adult circumcisions, and it is inspiring when someone makes that choice. The actual operation is not such a big deal. But the decision to do it is. You are, in fact, limiting his choices by not circumcising him.Diamonds must be cut and polished to reveal their inner beautyMany things in our world were created unfinished, and need our input to be complete. Wheat must be ground into flour and kneaded into dough; diamonds must be cut and polished to reveal their inner beauty. This is the nature of the human experience.So putting all spiritual considerations aside, from a practical perspective, here's the equation: Leave your son uncircumcised, and you leave him with a psychological barrier to exploring his own identity. Give your son a Brit, and he loses nothing more than a bit of skin, but he gains immediate entry into the four-thousand-year-old covenant of Abraham. That is a gift you will not regret giving.
Jewish Baby Names
Jewish names and it's meaning
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AharonAharon was the first High Priest, and Moses' brother. Aharon was known for "loving peace and pursuing peace." Aharon means "mountain" or "shining." (variation: Aaron)AbbaAbba means "father." This name first gained popularity in the Talmudic era. The most famous Abba was a 4th-century Babylonian-born scholar who settled in Israel. (Talmud - Brachot 24b)Avraham Avraham was the first patriarch of the Jewish people, who dedicated his life to teaching the world about one God. Avraham was a master of kindness. Avraham means "father of many nations." (see Genesis 17:5) (variations: Abraham, Abe, Avram)AdamAdam was the first man. Adam means "ground." (see Genesis 2:7)AkivaAkiva shares the same letters as Yaakov (Jacob), meaning "held by the heel." The famous Rabbi Akiva lived in Talmudic times. He had been a 40-year-old shepherd who could not even read the Aleph-Bet. One day, he came across a stone that had been holed out by a constant drip of water. He concluded: If something as soft as water can carve a hole in solid rock, how much more so can Torah -- which is fire -- make an indelible impression on my heart. Rabbi Akiva committed himself to Torah study, and went on to become the greatest sage of his generation, with 24,000 students learning under him at one time. (variation: Akiba)AlexanderThis name originated with Alexander the Great, King of Macedonia. The Talmud relates that upon meeting the High Priest of the Temple in Jerusalem, Alexander dismounted and bowed to him. (Alexander rarely, if ever, bowed to anyone.) Alexander explained that he had seen the High Priest in a dream, which he interpreted as a good omen. Alexander thus peacefully absorbed the Land of Israel into his growing empire. In tribute, the Sages decreed that Jewish boys born that year (333 BCE) be named Alexander. It remains a popular Jewish name today. (variation: Sendor)Alon Alon means "oak tree." The name Alon appears in the Bible as a grandson of Jacob (1-Chronicles 4:37).AlterAlter means "old" in Yiddish. Traditionally, if a child was born sickly, he was given the name Alter, as a blessing that he should grow to old age.AmosAmos is one of the 12 minor prophets in the Bible. Amos means "loaded" or "crowded," referring to his vast wisdom.Amram Amram was the father of Moses, and the leader of the Jewish people in the generation preceding the Exodus from Egypt. Amram means "mighty nation." (see Exodus 6:18)ArielAriel means "lion of God" (Isaiah 29:1). Ariel is another name for Jerusalem, and specifically the altar in the Holy Temple (Ezekiel 43:15). Ariel is also the name of an angel with a mission of peace (Isaiah 33:7).AryehAryeh means "lion," the king of beasts. The lion symbolizes a go-getter, who pounces on the opportunity to do a mitzvah (see Code of Jewish Law O.C. 1). Aryeh is the nickname given to Judah, as a blessing that he will be the tribe of Jewish kings (see Genesis 49:9). (variations: Ari, Arieh)AsherAsher means "blessed" or "fortunate." Asher is one of the 12 tribes, the son of Jacob. (see Genesis 30:13) (variation: Osher)AviAvi means "my father." Avi is short for Avraham, the first patriarch of the Jewish people. (see Genesis 17:5)AvigdorAvigdor means "the father of the one who established boundaries" for the Jewish people. In this sense, Avigdor is traditionally one of the names of Moses. The name Avigdor is mentioned in the Bible, in 1-Chronicles 4:4.AvnerAvner means "my father is light." Avner appears in the Bible as King Saul's uncle and army commander (1- Samuel 14:50). (variations: Abner, Aviner)AzrielAzriel is the name of an angel, meaning "helper of God." The name Azriel also appears in the Bible as the father of a leader of the tribe of Naftali (1-Chronicles 27:19), and also in Jeremiah 36:26.BarakBarak means "lightning." Barak appears in the Bible as the husband of the great prophetess Devorah. (see Judges ch. 4)BaruchBaruch means "blessed." The name Baruch appears in the Bible as assistant to the prophet Jeremiah. (see Jeremiah ch. 32)BetzalelBetzalel means "shadow of God." Betzalel appears in the Bible as the builder of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary which accompanied the Jewish people during their 40 years of wandering in the desert. (Exodus 31:2).BenyaminBenyamin means "son of my right hand," connoting strength. Benyamin is one of the 12 tribes of Israel, the youngest of Jacob's sons (Genesis 35:18). (variations: Benjamin, Binyamin)Ben-TzionBen-Tzion means "son of Zion" or "son of excellence." The name Ben-Tzion appears in the Talmud (Eydiot 8:7). Benzion, Ben-zion, Ben zion, Bentzion, Ben-TziyonBerelBerel is a derivative of the word "bear." It connotes strength, and is a nickname for the Hebrew name Dov (bear). (variation: Beryl)BoazBoaz means "swiftness." Boaz appears in the Bible as Ruth's husband, and King David's great-grandfather. (Ruth 2:1)CalevCalev means "like a heart." Calev appears in the Bible as one of the 12 spies sent to scout out the Land of Israel (Numbers 13:6). Calev was the husband of Miriam, Moses' sister. (variations: Caleb, Kalev)Carmi Carmi means "my vineyard." The name Carmi appears in the Bible as the grandson of Jacob (Genesis 46:9). (variation: Karmi)ChagaiChagai means "my festival." Chagai was one of the 12 minor prophets in the Bible. A variant form of the name appears in the Bible as a grandson of Jacob (Genesis 46:16). (variation: Hagai)ChaimChaim means "life." The name first appears in Jewish writings during the 12th century as one of the Tosafot commentators on the Talmud. Tradition says that the Messiah will be named Chaim. (variations: Chayim, Hyam)ChananChanan means "He was gracious." The name Chanan appears in the Bible as a leader of the tribe of Benjamin (1-Chronicles 8:23). (variation: Hanan)ChananyaChananya means "God bestows charm." The name Chananya appears in the Bible as one of the prophets (Jeremiah 28:1).ChananelChananel means "God is compassionate." The name appears in the Bible, where reference is made to the "tower of Chananel" (Jeremiah 31:37).ChanochChanoch means "education" or "dedicated." The name Chanoch appears in the Bible as a son of Cain (Genesis 4:17, 5:18). (variation: Henoch)ChizkiyahuChizkiyahu means "God is my strength." Chizkiyahu appears in the Bible as a righteous king of Israel (2-Kings ch. 19-20). (variations: Chizkiya, Chizkia, Hezekiah)DanDan means "judge." Dan appears in the Bible as one of the 12 tribes, the fifth son of Jacob (Genesis 30:6). (variation: Don)Daniel Daniel means "God is my judge," connoting the harmony of God's compassion and justice. Daniel served in the court of Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar, and was saved from both the lion's den and a fiery furnace, as recorded in the biblical Book of Daniel. (variation: Doniel)DavidDavid means "beloved." David was the second king of Israel, and is the ancestor of all future kings, including the Messiah. (see 1-Samuel 17:12). (variation: Dovid)DoronDoron means "gift."DovDov means "bear." Dov appears in the Bible as a reference to cunning and strength (Lamentations 3:10). (variations: Dov-Ber, Dubi)Ephraim Ephraim means "fruitful." Ephraim appears in the Bible as the second son of Joseph, and grandson of Jacob (Genesis 41:52). (variations: Efrayim, Efraim)EhudEhud means "beloved." The name Ehud appears in the Bible as one of the Judges of Israel (Judges 3:15).EitanEitan means "strongly flowing" (see Deut. 21:4). The name Eitan appears in the Bible as a grandson of Judah (1-Chronicles 2:6). The Midrash says that Eitan is also a nickname for Abraham, the first Jew. (variation: Ethan)ElchananElchanan means "God is gracious." The name Elchanan appears in the Bible as a warrior in King David's army, who won a key battle against the Philistines (2-Samuel 21:19).EldadEldad means "beloved of God." The name Eldad appears in the Bible as a Jew who prophesied during the time of Moses (Numbers 11:26).Elazar Elazar means "God has helped." The name Elazar appears in the Bible as a son of Aaron the high priest (Exodus 6:23).EliezerEliezer means "my God has helped." Eliezer appears in the Bible as Abraham's servant (Genesis 15:2), and also as the son of Moses (Exodus 18:4). (variations: Lazer, Laser)EliEli means "ascend" or "uplifted." Eli appears in the Bible as a High Priest, and the last of the judges in the days of Samuel (1-Samuel ch. 1).ElimelechElimelech means "my God is King." Elimelech appears in the Bible as the husband of Naomi (Ruth 1:2).ElishaElisha means "God will help," or "God will listen [to our prayer]." Elisha appears in the Bible as a prophet who was the main disciple of Elijah the Prophet. (see Second Book of Kings)EliyahuEliyahu means "toward God." Eliyahu appears in the Bible as a prophet who ascended to heaven alive, and revisits the Jewish people at every circumcision and every Passover Seder. (see Book of Kings) (variation: Elijah)ElyakimElyakim means "my God will establish." Elyakim appears in the Bible as the manager of the king's palace (2-Kings 18:18).EmanuelEmanuel means "God is with us." Emanuel appears in the Bible as the name of a Jewish savior (Isaiah 7:14), and also refers to the tribe of Judah (Isaiah 8:8). Tradition says that the Messiah will be named Emanuel. (variation: Immanuel)Ezra Ezra means "helper." Ezra led the Jewish people's return from Babylonian exile, and spearheaded the rebuilding of the Holy Temple, as recorded in the biblical Book of Ezra.FishelFishel means "fish" in Yiddish. Fishel is often associated with the name Ephraim, because Ephraim received a biblical blessing to be "fruitful like fish" (Genesis 48:16). (variation: Fischel)FivelFivel means "suckling" or "nursing" in Yiddish. Fivel also has a connotation of "light" or "candle." (variations: Fivish, Faivish, Feishiv, Feivel, Fayvel)GadGad means "good luck." Gad appears in the Bible as one of the 12 tribes of Israel, the son of Jacob (Genesis 30:11).Gamliel Gamliel means "God is my reward." Gamliel appears in the Bible as a leader of the tribe of Menashe (Numbers 1:10), and in Talmudic times as a revered Jewish leader.GavrielGavriel means "God is my strength." Gavriel appears in the Bible as the angel who foretold the birth of Isaac (Genesis 18:10), who overturned Sodom (Genesis ch 19), and who appeared to Daniel (Daniel 8:16). Traditionally, this angel stays by our left side as we sleep at night. (variation: Gabriel)GedaliahGedaliah means "God is great." Gedaliah appears in the Bible as a leader of the Jewish people who was tragically murdered (2-Kings 25:22; Jeremiah chs. 40-43).Gershom Gershom means "stranger." Gershom appears in the Bible as the son of Moses. (Exodus 2:22)Gershon Gershon means "to chase away." Gershon appears in the Bible as the son of Levi. (Genesis 46:11)GidonGidon means "mighty warrior." Gidon appears in the Bible as one of the Judges of Israel, and a war hero who defeated the Midianites (Judges 6:11). (variation: Gideon)GilGil means "joy" in Hebrew.HirshHirsch means "deer" in Yiddish. The name is often associated with the biblical Naftali, who is compared to a swift deer (Genesis 49:21). (variations: Herschel, Hersh, Hershel, Heshel)HillelHillel means "praise." Hillel appears in the Bible as the father of a Jewish leader (Judges 12:13). Hillel is also known in the Talmud as one of the greatest rabbinic sages.IssurIssur is the Yiddish nickname for "Israel." (variation: Isser)Itamar Itamar means "island of palms." Itamar appears in the Bible as Aaron's youngest son (Exodus 6:23).KalmanKalman, short for Kalonymos, is a Hungarian name meaning "merciful."Kalonymos Kalonymos is a Hungarian name meaning "merciful."LeibLeib is Yiddish for "lion." The lion is the symbol of Judah, the tribe of Jewish monarchy. (variation: Leibel)LeviLevi means "one who accompanies or attends," alluding to the Levites' role as servants in the Holy Temple. Levi appears in the Bible as one of the 12 tribes, the son of Jacob and Leah (Genesis 29:34).MalkielMalkiel means "God is my king." Malkiel appears in the Bible as a grandson of Asher (Genesis 46:17).ManoachManoach means "resting place." Manoach appears in the Bible as the father of Samson (Judges 13:2).MatitiyahuMatitiyahu means "gift of God." Matitiyahu is a key figure in the Chanukah story, as the leader of the Maccabees. In kabbalah, Matitiyahu has the same numeric value (861) as Beit HaMikdash, the Holy Temple. (variation: Mattisyahu)MedadMedad means "friend." Medad appears in the Bible as a leader and prophet in the time of Moses (Numbers 11:26).MeirMeir means "one who gives light." Rabbi Meir appears in the Talmud as a great 2nd century sage. (variation: Meyer)MenachemMenachem means "comforter." Menachem appears in the Bible as a Jewish king (2-Kings 15:14). Tradition says that the Messiah will be named Menachem. (variation: Menahem)Menashe Menashe means "causing to forget." In kabbalah, Menashe holds the power to chase away evil. Menashe appears in the Bible as the son of Joseph. (Genesis 41:51) (variation: Manasseh)MendelMendel is a Yiddish form of Menachem, meaning "comforter."MeshulamMeshulam means "paid for."MichaMicha means "Who is like God?" Micha appears in the Bible as one of the twelve Minor Prophets.MichaelMichael means "who is like God?" Michael appears in the Bible as a member of the tribe of Asher (Numbers 13:13). Michael is also the name of an angel and messenger of God, whose task is to act as the "defense attorney" for the Jewish people. Michael stays on our right side as we sleep at night; the right side is always associated with mercy and kindness. (variation: Michoel)MordechaiMordechai means "warrior." Mordechai appears in the Bible as a prophet and the husband of Queen Esther, who saved the Jews in the Purim story from Haman's genocidal plot. (variations: Mordecai, Motty, Motti)MosheMoshe was the greatest prophet ever, who led the Jewish people in the Exodus from Egypt, and at the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Moshe means "drawn out [of the water]" (Exodus 2:10), for in a deeper sense, Moshe's destiny was to draw the Jewish people out of slavery. (variations: Moishe, Moses)NachshonNachshon means "diviner." Nachshon appears in the Bible as the brother-in-law of Aaron, and the prince of the tribe of Judah, who was the first Jew to enter the Red Sea before it split (Exodus 6:23).NachmanNachman means "comfort." Nachman appears in the Talmud as a great sage who lived in Babylon. In kabbalah, Nachman has the same numeric value (148) as Netzach -- eternity.NachumNachum means "comfort." Nachum appears in the Bible as one of the twelve Minor Prophets. (variation: Nahum)NaftaliNaftali means "to wrestle." Naftali appears in the Bible as one of the 12 tribes of Israel, the sixth son of Jacob (Genesis 30:8).NatanNatan means "He gave." Natan appears in the Bible as a prophet and contemporary of King David (2-Samuel 5:15). (variations: Noson, Nathan)NechemiaNechemia means "comforted by God." Nechemia was a leader of the Jewish people during the return from Babylonian exile, as documented in the biblical Book of Nechemia.NetanelNetanel means "gift of God." Netanel appears in the Bible as a brother of King David (1-Chronicles 2:14). (variation: Nathaniel)NissanNissan is the name of the Hebrew month of Springtime, when Passover falls each year. Nissan means "banner."NissimNissim means "miracles."NoamNoam means "pleasant."NoachNoach means "tranquility" (Genesis 5:29). Noach appears in the Bible as the builder of the Ark, whose family survived the Flood. In kabbalah, Noach is another name for Shabbat, the day of rest and tranquility. (variation: Noah)OvadiaOvadia means "servant of God." Ovadia appears in the Bible as one of the twelve Minor Prophets. (variations: Ovadiah, Obadiah)PaltielPaltiel means "created by God." Paltiel appears in the Bible as a descendant of the tribe of Issachar (Numbers 34:26).PeretzPeretz means "burst forth." Peretz appears in the Bible as the son of Judah (Genesis 38:29).Pesach Pesach means "to pass over." Pesach is the Hebrew name for Passover, the holiday celebrating the Jewish exodus from Egypt, when God "passed over" the Jewish homes during the plague of the first born.PesachyaPesachya comes from the root "petach" which means opening or door. The biblical Mordechai was also called "Pesachya" because he revealed hidden matters (i.e. opened the door) and knew 70 languages. Pesachya is also related to Pesach (Passover), when the Jews put blood on their doorposts during the plague of the first born. Pesachya is also mentioned in the Talmud as being in charge of the collection boxes for Temple offerings.PinchasPinchas appears in the Bible as a High Priest, the grandson of Aaron. Pinchas' bravery stopped a deadly plague, for which God awarded him the Covenant of Peace (see Numbers ch. 25). Tradition says that the soul of Pinchas was reincarnated as Elijah the Prophet. (variation: Phinehas)RachamimRachamim means "compassion."RafaelRafael means "God heals." Rafael is the angel of healing, who visited Abraham after his circumcision (Genesis ch. 18). Traditionally, Rafael stays behind us as we sleep at night. (variations: Raphael, Rafoel)ReuvenReuven means "behold, a son!" Reuven appears in the Bible as one of the 12 tribes, Jacob's firstborn son (Genesis 29:32). ReubenSeligSelig means "blessed, happy" in Yiddish. (variation: Zelig)SethSeth means "appointed." Seth appears in the Bible as the son of Adam, born after the death of Abel (Genesis 5:3).ShabtaiShabtai is a derivative of "Shabbat." The name Shabtai appears in the Bible as a Levite during the time of Ezra (Ezra 10:15).ShalomShalom means "peace." A derivative form Shalum appears in the Bible as a king of Israel (2-Kings 15:13). Shalom is also traditionally one of the names of God.
Service 2
AdinaAdina means "gentle."AhuvaAhuva means "beloved." The word appears in the Bible, in Deuteronomy 21:15 and Nechemia 13:26.AlizaAliza means "joy." In kabbalah, Aliza signifies the joyful ability to rise above nature.AnatAnat means "to sing." Anat appears in the Bible in the book of Judges 3:31.AriellaAriella means "lioness of God." The variant form "Ariel" is another name for Jerusalem, and specifically the altar in the Holy Temple (Ezekiel 43:15). (variations: Ariel, Arielle)AvigailAvigail means "father's joy." Avigail appears in the Bible as King David's wife (1-Samuel 25:42). (variation: Abigail)AvitalAvital appears in the Bible as King David's wife (2-Samuel 3:4). Avital means "father of dew," referring to God as sustainer. In kabbalah, Tal signifies Divine nourishment in a hidden manner, just as dew descends unseen to water the plants.AvivaAviva means "springtime."AyalaAyala means "deer." The name is often associated with the biblical Naftali, who is compared to a swift deer (Genesis 49:21).AyeletAyelet means "musical instrument," as in Psalms 22:1.AvishagAvishag means "father's joy." Avishag appears in the Bible as attending to King David in his old age (1-Kings 1:3).Bat ShevaBat Sheva means "daughter of seven." Bat Sheva appears in the Bible as King David's wife (2-Samuel 11:27), and the mother of King Solomon (2-Samuel 12:24). (variant spellings: Batsheva, Batsheba)BatyaBatya means "daughter of God." Batya was the daughter of Pharaoh, who rescued baby Moses from the Nile River (Exodus 2:5). (variations: Batia, Basya)Bat-TziyonBat-Tziyon means "daughter of Zion," or "daughter of excellence." (variant spellings: Bat-Tzion, Bat-zion)BaylaBayla means "beautiful." It may also be related to the name Bilhah, who was the mother of Dan and Naftali, two of the 12 tribes of Israel. (Genesis 29:29 and 30:3) (variant spelling: Baila)BinaBina means "understanding, intelligence, wisdom."BrachaBracha means "blessing."BruriahBruriah means "clarity of God." Bruriah was a great Torah scholar during Talmudic times, the wife of Rabbi Meir.ChanaChana means "grace." This name is associated with the ability to create beautiful prayers; Chana appears in the Bible as praying to God, and then giving birth to the prophet Samuel. (1-Samuel ch. 1) (variant spellings: Hana, Hannah)ChavaChava means "life." Chava appears in the Bible as the first woman. (Genesis 3:20) (variations: Eve, Hava)CarmelCarmel means "vineyard, garden, orchard." (variations: Carmela, Carmelit, Carmiela, Carmit, Carmiya)ChagitChagit means "festive, celebration." Chagit appears in the Bible as King David's wife (2-Samuel 3:4). (variant spelling: Hagit)ChavivaChaviva means "beloved."ChayaChaya means "alive, living." Chaya is related to the name Chava, who appears in the Bible as the first woman. (Genesis 3:20)DevorahDevorah means "to speak kind words." Devorah appears in the Bible as the great prophetess and judge who led a revolt against the Canaanite king (see Book of Judges). A different Devorah was the nurse of Rebecca (Genesis 35:8). (variations: Devora, Debra, Deborah)DinahDinah means "judgment." Dinah appears in the Bible as the daughter of Jacob and Leah. (Genesis 30:21) (variant spellings: Dina, Deena)DafnaDafna means "laurel."DaliaDalia means "flower." A variant form of the name appears in the Bible, in Ezra 2:60.DalitDalit means "to draw water."DaniellaDaniella means "God is my judge."EfratEfrat means "honored, distinguished." Efrat appears in the Bible as the wife of Caleb (1-Chronicles 2:19). (variant spelling: Ephrat)ElishevaElisheva means "God is my oath." Elisheva appears in the Bible as the wife of Aaron the High Priest (Exodus 6:23). (variations: Elisheba, Elizabeth)EstherEsther means "hidden" in Hebrew, and "star" in Persian. Esther saved the Jews in the Purim story from Haman's genocidal plot, as recorded in the biblical Book of Esther. Esther was known to be a very beautiful woman (she was chosen to be queen), yet her "hidden" internal qualities were even more beautiful. (variant spelling: Ester)ElianaEliana means "God has answered me."EmunahEmunah means "faith." (variant spelling: Emuna)FaigeFaige means "bird" in Yiddish, and also is related to the word for the fruit "date." (variations: Faigy Faigel, Faiga)FreidaFreida means "joy" in Yiddish. (variations: Freda, Freeda, Freyde, Freydel)FrumaFruma means "pious" in Yiddish.GavriellaGavriella means "God is my strength." (variation: Gabriella)GeulaGeula means "redemption."GilaGila means "joy." In kabbalah, Gila means "to reveal God," which is a great source of joy.GoldaGolda means "gold" in Yiddish. (variation: Goldie)HadassahHadassah is the Hebrew name of Esther, who saved the Jews in the Purim story from Haman's genocidal plot, as recorded in the biblical Book of Esther. Hadassah means "myrtle tree." (variations: Hadas, Hadasa, Dassa, Dassi)HadarHadar means "splendid, ornamented, beautiful."HindaHinda is Yiddish for "deer." The name is often associated with the biblical Naftali, who is compared to a swift deer (Genesis 49:21).HodayaHodaya means "praise God."IditIdit means "choicest." (variation: Edith)IlanaIlana means "tree." In kabbalah, the numeric value of Ilana (96) equals the "throne of God." (variations: Elana, Ilanit)IritIrit means "daffodil."KeilaKeila is a Yiddish name derived from the Hebrew word "Keli," which means "vessel." A talented person is often referred to as "Keli" -- a complete vessel, capable of performing great things.KerenKeren means "ray [of sunlight]." (variation: Karen)KinneretKinneret is another name for the Sea of Galilee, or Lake Tiberias.LeahLeah means "to be tired." Leah appears in the Bible as the wife of Jacob, the mother of six of the 12 tribes of Israel. (Genesis 30:19)LeebaLeeba means "beloved" in Yiddish.LilaLila means "night." (variations: Leila, Leilah)LevanaLevana means "white" or "moon."LevonaLevona means "frankincense," a spice used in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem (Exodus 30:34).LioraLiora means "I have light." (variation: Lior)MachlaMachla means "affliction." Machla appears in the Bible as one of the five daughters of Tzelofchad. (Numbers 26:33)MayanMayan means "spring, oasis."MalkaMalka means "queen."MayaMaya means "water."MazalMazal means "constellation" or "luck."MeiraMeira means "one who gives light." A variant form, Mira, is a nickname for Miriam.MeiravMeirav means "to maximize." Meirav appears in the Bible as the daughter of King Saul (1-Samuel 14:49).MenuchaMenucha means "tranquility" in Hebrew.MichalMichal means "Who is like God?" Michal appears in the Bible as King Saul's daughter (1-Samuel 14:49), and the first wife of King David (1-Samuel 18:27).MilkaMilka appears in the Bible as one of the five daughters of Tzelofchad. (Numbers 26:33)MiriamMiriam appears in the Bible as a prophet and the sister of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 15:20). Miriam means "bitter sea," because she was born at a time when the Egyptians embittered the lives of the Jews. Miriam, however, remained sweet despite the hardships around her, giving Jews courage in those difficult times. (Midrash Yalkut Shimoni - Exodus 165) (variations: Mirel, Mirele, Mimi)MoriahMoriah means "God teaches." Mount Moriah is the site of the binding of Isaac (Genesis 22:2), and of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem (2-Chronicles 3:1).NoaNoa means "to tremble or shake." Noa appears in the Bible as one of the daughters of Tzelofchad. (Numbers 26:33)NaamaNaama means "pleasant."NaomiNaomi means "pleasant." Naomi appears in the Bible as the mother-in-law and inspiration for Ruth, as recorded in the Book of Ruth. In kabbalah, the numeric value of Naomi (170) represents goodness ("tov") on all levels.NetanyaNetanya means "gift of God." It is related to the name Natan, which appears in the Bible as a prophet and contemporary of King David (2-Samuel 5:15).NavaNava means "beautiful." The word appears in the Bible, in Song of Songs 2:14.NechamaNechama means "comfort."NuritNurit is a flower, the buttercup.OraOra means "light." (variation: Orit)OrliOrli means "I have light." (variation: Orly)OrnaOrna is related to the word meaning "pine tree."OsnatOsnat is an Egyptian name meaning "belonging to God." Osnat appears in the Bible as the wife of Joseph, and mother of Ephraim and Menashe (Genesis 41:45). (variations: Asnat, Asnas, Osnas)PeninaPenina means "pearl." Penina appears in the Bible as Elkanah's wife (1-Samuel 1:2). In kabbalah, Penina is related to the word penimi, meaning "inner," alluding to inner depth and purity -- just as a pure pearl is produced internally. (variations: Perle, Perel)RachelRachel means a "female sheep," a symbol of purity. Rachel appears in the Bible as one of the four matriarchs -- the wife of Jacob and mother of Joseph (Genesis 29:16). Rachel was buried in Bethlehem so that her soul could pray for the Jews who in the future would be led into exile.RaizelRaizel is a Yiddish variant of "Rose." (variations: Rose, Raisal, Raisa, Risa)RivkaRivka means "to tie." Rivka appears in the Bible as one of the four matriarchs, the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob. Rivka was known for her great kindness, e.g. when she drew well-water for Abraham's servant and all his camels. (see Genesis ch. 24) (variations: Rifka, Rebecca)RinaRina means "joy." The letters of Rina can be rearranged to spell "the candle of God." (variation: Rinat)RuthRuth means "sweet and pleasant." Ruth appears in the Bible as a righteous convert, and ancestor of King David, as recorded in the Book of Ruth. (variations: Rut, Rus)SarahSarah means "princess." Sarah appears in the Bible as a great prophet, the first of the matriarchs -- wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac. (Genesis 17:15) (variations: Sari, Sarit, Sarita)SaraiSarai means "my princess." Sarai appears in the Bible as the original name of Sarah -- wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac (Genesis 11:29).SerachSerach means "free of restraint." Serach appears in the Bible as the granddaughter of Jacob (Genesis 46:17).ShifraShifra means "improved." Shifra appears in the Bible as a Hebrew midwife who disobeyed Pharaoh's orders to kill Jewish babies. (Exodus 1:15) (variation: Shiphrah)ShlomitShlomit means "peaceful." Shlomit appears in the Bible in Leviticus 24:11. (variations: Shula, Shuli, Shulammite)ShoshanaShoshana is the Hebrew word for "rose." Shoshana appears in the Bible in Song of Songs 2:2, as "standing out like a rose amongst the thorns." In kabbalah, Shoshana has the same numeric value (661) as Esther, the hero of the Purim story who lived in the city of Shushan (related to "Shoshana"). (variation: Shani)SharonSharon is a region in Israel, known for being especially plentiful and nourishing. (see Metzudot Tzion, Isaiah 33:9) (variations: Sharona, Sharonit)ShaynaShayna means "beautiful" in Yiddish. (variations: Sheina, Shaindel)ShiraShira means "song" in Hebrew.ShulamitShulamit means "peaceful." Shulamit appears in the Bible in Song of Songs 7:1.Sigal, Sigalit, SigaliaSigal means "treasure." (see Deuteronomy 26:18)SimchaSimcha means "joy."TalTal means "dew." In kabbalah, Tal signifies Divine nourishment in a hidden manner, just as dew descends unseen to water the plants.TaliaTalia means "dew from God." In kabbalah, Tal signifies Divine nourishment in a hidden manner, like dew that descends unseen to water the plants.TamarTamar means "palm tree," denoting righteousness. Tamar appears in the Bible as the wife of Judah, and the ancestor of King David. (Genesis 38:6)TechiyaTechiya means "revival."TehillaTehilla means "song of praise."TikvaTikva means "hope."TirtzahTirtzah means "agreeable." Tirtzah appears in the Bible as one of the daughters of Tzelofchad. (Numbers 26:33)TovaTova means "God's goodness." (variations: Tovat, Tovit, Tovah)TzipporahTzipporah means "bird." Tzipporah appears in the Bible as the wife of Moses (Exodus 2:21). In kabbalah, Tzipporah has the same numeric value (376) as Shalom, peace. (variation: Tzipora)TziviaTzivia means "assembly of God." Tzivia appears in the Bible as the mother of a Jewish king (2-Kings 12:2).TzionaTziona means "excellent."TzofiyaTzofiya means "guardian."TzviyaTzviya means "deer, gazelle." The name is often associated with the biblical Naftali, who is compared to a swift deer (Genesis 49:21).UriellaUriella means "light of God."VeredVered means "rose" in Aramaic, the language of the Talmud. (variations: Varda, Vardit)YakovaYakova is the feminine form of Yaakov (Jacob), meaning "held by the heel." Yaakov was the father of the 12 tribes of Israel (Genesis 25:26). (variation: Jacoba)YaelYael means "to ascend" and "mountain goat." Yael appears in the Bible as the hero who saved the Jewish people by bravely killing the enemy general. (Judges ch. 4) (variations: Jael, Yaela)YaffaYaffa means "beautiful." In kabbalah, Yaffa has the same numeric value (95) as Malka, queen. (variation: Jaffa)YardenaYardena means "to flow down," in reference to the Jordan (Yarden) River. (variation: Jordana)YehuditYehudit means "praise." Yehudit appears as a hero of the Chanukah story who bravely killed the enemy general. (variation: Judith)YiskahYiskah means "to gaze." Yiskah appears in the Bible as the niece of Abraham (Genesis 11:29). Tradition says that Yiskah was another name for Sarah, so called because she "gazed" with prophetic inspiration, and because others "gazed" at her beauty.YochevedYocheved means "God's honor." Yocheved appears in the Bible as the mother of Moses, Aaron and Miriam. (Exodus 6:20)ZahavaZahava means "gold." (variation: Zahavit Zehava)ZisselZissel means "sweet" in Yiddish. (variations: Sissel, Cecilia)
Service 3
ABOUT
About Rabbi Yossi Srugo
I was Born in Buenos Aires Argentina to a typical SEPHARADIC family, raised at ASHKENAZIC school all my life.MOHEL:My work as a Mohel is more than a job to me, its a passion! In my opinion, the approach to a good Brit performance is as follows;1.Health of the baby2.Making the parents feel at ease3.Home visits before and after4.Captivating Brit ceremonyI have been serving as a Mohel in Florida for the past 6 years and 6 years before that, in NY and Argentina.The Brit Milah ceremony could be performed according to either Sepharadic or Ashkenazic customs, fluently in English, Spanish and Hebrew.Currently serving as a rabbi at Chabad of Aventura in Aventura FL.SOFER: Sofer refers to a person who deals with Sefer Torah's, Tefillin and Mezzuzot.I recieved my instruction as a Sofer in Brooklyn, NY under the auspicies of Oraita Inc.
CONTACT
CONTACT ME
miamimohel_gmail.com
305-318-1880
TESTIMONIALS
Word of mouth..
Our experience was great!! We were a little bit nervous in the beginning because its our first child thus our first experience with a Brit Milah. But I must say that Rabbi Jossi was amazing. He first explained everything to my husband and then once the baby was born he checked him twice to make sure he was ok to get circumsized. After the circumsizion he also came to check on our son. The attention Rabbi Jossi gave us was unbeleivable, we couldn't have asked for more. Debbie and Alan Shlesingerdebbiemezrahi_gmail.com ---Everything went smoothly, we were a little scared at first like any new parent but we were put at ease as soon as we met you. The ceremony was very nice and quick. The follow ups were very helpful to make sure that our little Boy was healing fine. Overall it was a great experience thank you.Jess Lodzinskyjesslodzinski_aol.com ---Considero que el Mohel estuvo pendiente del bebe antes durante y despues del Brtith, lo que a mi como madre me dio tranquilidad. Pues es un paso importante en la vida de mi hijo y debe estar en las mejores manos,Jaime y Karina Anidjaranidjarkarina_hotmail.com ---Smooth, Kind and Detailed the whole experience, before during and after has been very pleasantAlex and Carolina Ponteaprmiami_yahoo.com ---I had a brit for my older son with a different Mohel, but I can say that this experience, with rabbi Yossi, was 10 times better then the first oneSami and Chana Benamu917.498.5353 ---The whole experience was wonderful. It's always hard for a mother to have to circumcise her son, the Miami Mohel did an amazing job. He came to our house twice before the bris. He met with us and explained the whole process. He was very suportive and very kind to us. The ceremony was wonderful. After the bris, he came to check on our son three more times. He called us to see how he was doing. He made himself available to us day and night. It was a wonderful experience. We fell very please to have chosen him to be our mohel and will choose him again, if we have another son. Brenda and Moises Naebaires1414_hotmail.combrendasilber_hotmail.com
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