The podcast explores the significance of folding chairs in Jewish culture and their connection to Thanksgiving. It also discusses a craft along for Israel, reflections on setting a place at the Shabbat table, and the act of donating knitted hats to soldiers in Israel.
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Quick takeaways
The folding chairs in Jewish households symbolize improvisation and the spirit of bringing people together for joyful occasions.
Crafting has become an act of compassion and solidarity, providing comfort and relaxation during challenging times.
Deep dives
The Significance of Gratitude in Judaism
Gratitude is an integral part of Judaism, with daily expressions of thanks embedded in prayers and blessings. The emphasis on gratitude in Judaism extends beyond Thanksgiving, as Jews are encouraged to be grateful every day. From the moment of waking up, Jews express gratitude for various blessings, including good health and safe journeys. Judaism teaches that every day is an opportunity for thankfulness.
The Beautifully Jewish Folding Chair
The folding chair, a humble and practical object, takes on a deeper significance within Jewish households. It is associated with celebrations and gathering around the table for special occasions like Thanksgiving. The chairs, often pleather or velvet, have a sense of nostalgia and tradition as they are passed down through generations. Although the company that made them, Afrits, may no longer be in business, these folding chairs continue to be found in Jewish homes, particularly in the New York area. They symbolize the spirit of improvisation and bringing people together for joyful occasions.
Using Crafting to Support Israel
Crafting has become an act of compassion and solidarity with Israel, as people from diverse backgrounds are coming together to knit hats for soldiers in the IDF, crochet dolls for children in Israeli hospitals, and create cards for families in need. Knitting, in particular, has provided a sense of comfort and relaxation during challenging times. The act of using one's gifts to support others and contribute to the Jewish community or the world at large is a particularly beautiful expression of Judaism.
Today, we’re bringing Unorthodox listeners a special Beautifully Jewish Thanksgiving. Beautifully Jewish is a monthly audio series on Unorthodox that explores Jewish material culture, the ritual objects that inspire us, and the people who make them. On today’s segment, hosts Stephanie Butnick and Tanya Singer celebrate an unexpectedly significant object: the folding chair.
You’ll also get an update on the Beautifully Jewish craft-along for Israel and hear from Israeli knitwear designer Inbal Gross, who just days before the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks had organized Israel’s first fiber festival.
Shop for all things beautiful and Jewish at Tablet’s first ever Hanukkah Bazaar in New York City on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 11am-7pm. Get your tickets at hanukkahbazaar.com.
Join our Beautifully Jewish Craft-Along! We’re meeting virtually every Monday in November to craft in support of children being treated in Israel’s hospitals and the brave men and women of the Israeli Defense Forces. Find out more at tabletmag.com/craftalong.
Write to us at unorthodox@tabletmag.com, or leave a voicemail on our listener line: (914) 570-4869.
Unorthodox is produced by Tablet Studios. Check out all of our podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.
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The Jewish Communal Fund is the nation's largest Jewish donor-advised fund. Open a fund with as little as $5,000 and let JCF streamline your charitable giving. Act by December 29 to lock in the maximum charitable deduction for 2023. Get started at jcfny.org.
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