A beautiful Bukharan-style Kipah.

The dugma (pattern) was interesting, and it contained a great deal of purple, my favorite color. I put it down next to the other items I purchased that day, and couldn't wait to wear it at services on the following Shabbat.

I probably own over 50 kipot, and most of them are the Kipah Srugah style, the tightly knit kipot. My preference is for one that is small. As long as the Kipah is wider than three knuckles when folded in half two times, it is considered acceptable to wear.

But this new Kipah would virtually cover my entire head. It was different, to say the least.

Of the one dozen unsolicited comments I heard that Shabbat, 10 were positive. It made me feel good, although even if I heard not one compliment, it Wouldn't matter. I liked my new kipah, just like a young boy likes his new sneakers.

It just felt right.

The concept of Hidur Mitzvah or beautifying a commandment, is a wonderful idea. Take an ordinary commandment, yet fulfill it using beautiful vessels. Make kiddush in a silver goblet, instead of a cheap cup, or hire an artist to create a Ketubah for your wedding, instead of using a Xeroxed copy, makes the fulfillment of a Mitzvah that much more enjoyable, and outright fun.

I would like to challenge each of you, our members, to treat yourself to a Jewish artifact in preparation for the holiday of Hanukkah, coming up next month.

Buy a new Hanukkiah, a silver dreidel, or some hand-dipped candles for your Hanukkah Menorah. Make the holiday more beautiful than ever before. And a great place to find these items is in our own gift shop, where the selection is wonderful.