Thanks to a generous donation from Jonathan Hayden, the SA Jewish Museum has been able to restore and update the glass cabinets that contain our magnificent items of Judaica. One of the main benefits of visiting a museum is the opportunity for experiential and object-based learning. Outings allow children and adults to take a break from a classroom or book and discover the world firsthand. Many people who visit the SAJM are particularly interested in exploring the Jewish religion, its beliefs, festivals, rites and rituals. The museum’s Judaica display provides an excellent and practical way to illuminate Jewish customs to young and old visitors alike. Situated in our Old Shul, the glass cabinets house stunning examples of chanukiot, Shabbat candlesticks, Torahs and dressings, pointers, megillot (scrolls of Esther), Havdalah spice boxes, Pesach haggadot, and other items relating to Jewish life.
Many of the objects are unique and have fascinating histories, having crossed many years and continents to be where they are today. A few of them display a silver disc to indicate that they were given to the museum by Jewish Cultural Restitution, an agency that was tasked after the Holocaust with returning Nazi-looted items to their owners or, if that was impossible, donating them to Jewish museums or cultural institutions.
Through improved lighting and explanatory captions, we have created an eye-catching presentation that captures the essence of Judaism. Jonathan, who was a chairperson of the Jewish Museum that originally occupied our premises, made the donation in honour of his late father, Roger Hayden, who was himself a past chairperson of the Jewish Museum. We are grateful to Jonathan for enabling the restoration of the cabinets that now constitute a fitting addition to our beautiful Old Shul.
For more information please go to www.sajewishmuseum.co.za
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