Silver Kiddush Cups are a beautiful addition to any Jewish home. Used to hold wine or grape juice, they sanctify Shabbat and the Jewish holidays. They also sanctify events such as weddings, Bar or Bat Mitzvah’s and the birth of a new baby. There are many different styles and types of silver kiddush cups available, so you can find one that is perfect for your needs.
Silver is considered the finest material for Kiddush cups. It has antibacterial properties, which help to protect the drinker’s teeth and body from harmful organisms. Silver is also naturally anti-fungal, which helps to keep the drink fresh and delicious. In addition, it is easy to clean and does not tarnish easily. Silver has been used as jewelry for centuries and was first mined in ancient Mesopotamia.
Kiddush cups are used to hold the wine or grape juice that is sanctified at the beginning of Shabbat, Jewish holidays and special events such as weddings. Traditionally, people use a special cup solely for this purpose, usually an heirloom that has been passed down through generations, however any type of glass or cup can be used as a Kiddush cup if it is kept clean and free of impurities.
It is preferable to use mevushal (uncooked) wine for kiddush, but if this is not possible it is permissible to make kiddush with a non-mevushal wine, as long as one is careful that gentiles and non-observant Jews are not drinking from it. See Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 77:16.
When making kiddush, the cup should be made of a material that is not reactive to the wine, such as silver or copper. This is because metals react with the acid in wine, and over time this can ruin the taste of the wine. In addition, it is important that the Kiddush cup be kept dry between uses so that it does not get mildew or rust.
Using a special silver tray for the cup is an excellent way to ensure this does not happen. Having a tray to place the cup on will also help prevent it from being damaged or scratched as it is used and stored. The best way to care for your silver Kiddush cup is to wash it with soap and water, then rinse it off with water and dry it completely with a cloth before storage. This will keep the cup shiny and lustrous for years to come.
