Blessed are
You, Lord, our God, King of the Universe,
who creates the fruit of the vine.
Shabbos
meals begin with the recitation of the
Kiddush, which is said by the head of the
household or any male over thirteen. Our
Rabbis ordained that Shabbos should be
sanctified with wine. Usually a silver cup
holding a minimum of four ounces is reserved
for this purpose. The one reciting the
Kiddush drinks at least two ounces, and then
distributes the rest among those who are
included in the Kiddush. Kiddush is prefaced
with the words, "Savri Maranan" (By your
leave, gentleman) to call the family and
guests to attention so that they will not
have to recite the blessing for themselves.
Many people, however, have the custom that
all male members over the age of thirteen
recite the Kiddush.
