cheder

Hebrew and religious classes (often on Sundays) for elementary school children.

Mishneh Torah

a 12th-century code of religious law in fourteen parts written by Moses Maimonides

Purim

A joyous holiday that takes place in February or March on the 14th of Adar, retelling the story of the Book of Esther.

refua shlema

"Get well soon." Lit. "full recovery"

shatnez

mixture of wool and linen in a garment, which is prohibited by Jewish law

shema

prayer recited in most services as well as at bedtime, and when death is imminent; one of the most important and well-known prayers in Judaism

sofer

A scribe trained in transcribing the Torah, mezuzah, tefillin scriptures and other religious texts on parchment.

yasher koach

Congratulations!

Thank you (used by Orthodox Jews)

Good job!

yigdal

hymn often sung at the end of a prayer service, based on Maimonides' Thirteen Principles of Faith