Jerusalem comes to life - Israeli artist Yair Emanuel

Today I would like you to meet an extraordinary Israeli Judaica artist who lives and works in Jerusalem. Emanuel is a graduate of Israel's prestigious Academy of Art and Design. Yair Emanuel's stylish works are hand-painted in vivid colors that immediately capture the eye. Inspired by ancient motifs, Yair Emanuel mixes traditional with modern design, while adding his own imagination to create his unmistakable signature look.

Emanuel's unique works include Shabbat candlesticks, Seder Plates, Hanukkah menorahs, hand-embroidered Tallits and much more. Emanuel's Works make some of the mosty popular giffs from Israel. What I especially like about Yair Emanuel's works is the fact that they truely reflect the atmosphere of Jerusalem. Anyone who has ever been to the holy city will know what I'm talking about. With Emanuel's magic touch, the sights of jerusalem magically come to life. You just can't stay indifferent to his works, Each of Emanuel's religious object will make a colorful addition to any interior.

Jerusaem hand-painted Hanukkah menorah by Yair Emanuel.

Ani LeDodi VeDodi Li – special blessing makes special Jewish wedding gifts

The Jewish wedding ceremony takes place under a big canopy, called in Hebrew Chuppah. Under the Chuppah the happy bride and groom share a mutual promise by saying to each other: "I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine" or as pronounced in Hebrew -Ani LeDodi VeDodi Li (Song of Songs: 3:6). Song of Songs is believed to have been written by King Solomon. This psalm is traditionally interpreted as the divine love that God has given to the people of Israel. The people of Israel are seen as the wife, the beloved, and God in the one who blesses His beloved with eternal love. This promise also embodies the sacred relationship between a husband and wife in Jewish tradition.

Today, I would like to bring you several Ani LeDodi gift ideas that are perfect for anniversaries and Jewish weddings. Several of the most popular Jewish wedding gifts are ornamental objects that have symbolic significance. Judaica articles are very popular Jewish weddings gifts as they are both practical and decorative and have religious context. Shabbat candlesticks, Mezuzah cases and Hanukkah menorah are very appropriate gifts for Jewish wedding. A special gift jewelry such as a pendant or necklace inscribed with Ani LeDodi for the bride is another special gift idea. Below, Ani LeDodi Mezuzah by Israeli artist Yossi Steinberg, who has also designed the magnificent candlesticks above.
















Ani LeDodi pendant by Ester Shahaf with Hebrew inscription from the Song of Songs