This Hebrew letters, commonly seen on
necklaces and other jewelry and ornaments,
is simply the Hebrew word Chai (living),
with the two Hebrew letters Cheit and Yod
attached to each other. Some say it refers
to the Living G-d; others say it simply
reflects Judaism's focus on the importance
of life. Whatever the reason, the concept
of chai is important in Jewish culture.
The typical Jewish toast is l'chayim (to
life). Gifts to charity are routinely
given in multiples of 18 (the numeric
value of the word Chai).
Elvis -- His
mother also claimed a Jewish heritage
since her grandmother was Jewish,
something Elvis was aware of since he was
a young child. Because of this, Elvis had
a star of David placed on her tombstone.
He also wore a necklace with a "chai"
symbol on it and gave often to Jewish
charities in the Memphis area.
As a
teenager, he received a scholarship to day
camp from the Jewish community. His
upstairs neighbors at 462 Alabama Ave.,
Rabbi Alfred and Jeannette Fruchter. |
