Unsure which Kiddush to say for chag that falls on Motzei Shabbat? Do you have a guest who needs a copy of the Sephardic birkat hamazon (grace after meals)? Wondering what songs to sing at your Lag Ba'omer bonfire?

The Kiddush Book, or Sefer HaKiddush, with artwork by Raphael Abecassis contains the answer to these holiday conundrums and much more. Originally released in Hebrew, this book was recently translated into English by Rabbi Jonathan Chipman. Tthe large, hardcover version contains side by side Hebrew and English translations.

The Kiddush Book has the usual components of a very thorough bencher. Not only does it contain the regular Shabbat blessings and songs, but also the less common Kiddush variations recited on special occasions, as well as the extra blessings recited oh holidays and at simchas, plus a wide variety of songs, and some extras like the Rosh Hashanah seder, and even Kriyat Shema.

The format of the book is anything but wedding bencher standard. It is a beautifully bound and regal looking volume, which elevates all these prayers and gives them the honor they deserve.

But what really sets this book apart from a bencher are the illustrations. Done in full pages and in borders, Raphael Abecassis draws on Jewish motifs in an Eastern style. The pictures are lively and joyful, with bright colors and disparate themes all coexisting side by side, and tied together by swirls of grape vines or Jacob's ladders

In one of my favorite full-page illustrations, found next to the Tu Bishvat seder, we see the seven species, and trees being planted by colorfully dressed men. A row of angels opens the floodgates of heaven, while the words of the prayers over food twine through these scenes along with several other of the holiday's motifs. But for all the movement, and density of image the eye never tires of looking at these wonderful creations, and the 253 pages pass almost as quickly as the Jewish year itself.

The Kiddush book, reproduced by Ideas Creative of Jerusalem
www.i-deas.co.il, part of whose profits will be going to worthy charities in Israel, is a beautiful addition to any Shabbat table or even coffee table. As a gift item, or an addition to your own household, it is sure to contribute both aesthetically and religiously.

This book is available at:
The Personal Touch, King George and Ben Yehuda Streets, Jerusalem
Tel: 02-623 4877

Gur Arieh Bookstore, Yoel Solomon St 8, Jerusalem
Tel: 02-625-7486. Fax: 02-625-4265

Books can be ordered from eLuna.co, for delivery in Israel only.