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| SCROLL DOWN FOR THE BAVAJADAS ARCHIVE |
JUNE 2004
Keridos amigos mios de Bavajadas, today is the day I've threatened you all with a LADINO
test!! Word is that university students are cheating on tests. I know that I can trust your
honesty!! Right? So sharpen your mind and pencils -- LETS GO!!
Translate: Avia un Muluho ke si yamava Juha. Agora Juha mos konto un konsejo, i ke
maskara!! Ken bele ke la manya estava durmiendo. Es ke no lo izo maksus. Ki bila ke me
vino en mi kavesa. Hones-ti Ga no es ke kero avlar ama si no ti lo digo, komo vas a
saver? Fue a la kusina i mi ruvo un kuyajak, na este boy! Kon la maya in la mano es ke
izo mukayet de azer yougurt. Adio, ijo bueno ya lo ago yo. Se dichiso de komer. Se vistio
la kasketa. Komo el otro likerdi no mi esta sintiendo. Pasensia ke mi mande el D-o, ke
pikados izi yo! Juha suyo Juha se mityo un kayimaso infrente de la kamisa. No le esta
keshiando esta kayimaso, paresi komo un jingano! Haram ke no ti aga!! Na ke enkasho
un pidaso de tutum en la kara kon la yaka inkujido i nigresido, kon los churapis de dos
kolores i los shirites enkolgando. Ya ti kishio! Ke haal mi vino en mi kavesa! En supito el
zavali se fue afuera para regar kon el hurtun, sin un mitaleek en la tukera.
Finished? Send your completed test to Bavajadasdeluna@aol.com and I will grade it.
Well, my dear friends, how did it go? Including all these words into a story was not an easy
task. I also added some Turkish words to challenge you that much more!! Be prepared to
catch my translation in the next issue.
The camaraderie and enthusiasm we all felt on the Sunday afternoon when The Rhodes
Jewish Historical Foundation visited Congregation Ezra Bessaroth was wonderful to behold.
The 800-year-old Torah from Spain and Rhodes was proudly presented as one of the oldest
scrolls in the world by Aron Hasson, founder of The Jewish Museum of Rhodes. This
special treasure survived the Spanish Inquisition and the Holocaust. Aron Hasson explained
that in 1943 when the German military took control of Rhodes, leaders of the Jewish
community gave their Torahs to the Turkish community leaders who hid and protected the
sacred scrolls. The Torahs were carefully and successfully hidden in the mosque and were
held safely until the war was over. Aron spoke further about the historical background and
then presented a short documentary video of this ancient Sephardic Sefer Torah. We also
saw a special photo collection of "Jewish Life in Rhodes" which was fascinating! These
touching photos of our heritage are available for showing on the Ezra Bessaroth web site. It
was definitely a walk down ?Sephardic Memory Lane? for all of us. Supreme thanks and
sincere appreciation on this momentous milestone to Aron Hasson!
What a special treat for me, Bavajadas, when Aron Hasson joined me as my guest for lunch
at Island House the Friday morning prior to his Sunday viewing. He chuckled as I told him
about the antics of his parents who were friends of mine during the few years I spent in LA
as a teenager. I graduated from high school with his father, Ted, and was active in several
Sephardic organizations with him. Those were the days, my friend! His mother, Pearl
Benoun was much younger and lived in my block on 49th Street between Figueroa and
Broadway. Now you know the rest of the story.
WHAT ELSE IS NEW? My own family as well as other community members are
participating in and dedicated to volunteer work for various deserving causes.
Earlier this year I saw my niece, Jeannie Peha (daughter of my brother Joe Peha), standing
outside Albertsons super market. ?Mos apiade para bueno?.what are you doing here,
honey?? I said. Jeannie told me that she was volunteering for our Jewish Family Service.
She then gave me a flyer from JFS stating that they are collecting non-perishable Kosher
food to make gift baskets for low-income Seniors. This was holiday time and her barrel was
full of groceries. Bravo, ijica mia!! I was so proud of her that I almost announced through the
microphone ?That's my niece!?
Oh, I must tell you of another delightful episode. I happily attended Natan Ben Meir?s Bar
Mitzvah. When I received his thank you note, in addition to thanking me for his gift, he also
told me that he sent a certain percentage of his Bar Mitzvah gift money to a community
service organization for the blind with the hope that they can cure Joe's blindness.
He added that he prays for Mr. Peha often. What a beautiful gesture and, yes, I shed a
few tears.
Continuing on with devoted volunteers?.my sister-in-law, Rita Peha, volunteered to serve
another year as president of the Ezra Bessaroth Ladies Auxiliary. Needless to say, with the
willing support of Rita?s husband, and my brother, Joe Peha, Rita's hard work and endless
devotion are truly exceptional. There I go again, remembering one of Mama's favorite
sayings "Aiy i Aiy" meaning "there is and there is??. She could be just a mediocre president
or she could be a superb president?and, of course, we all know that Rita is in the ?superb?
category.
I am proud to tell you that I have completed 27 years of volunteering my time at the Kline
Galland Home. I certainly agree with the phrase, ?You can?t pay me to be a volunteer.?
What a profound and joyous experience for me to share with my Bavajadas audience the
special moments and milestones in my life. I do thank you. In an earlier issue I quoted a few
lines of grandson Randy Kessler's message at the Brit Milah of his son, and my
great-grandson, Avi. In that part of his message, Randy spoke about the origin and meaning
behind his new son?s name, Avi Daniel. What a blessing when we each experience similar
words surrounded by family and friends. Amen. And now, my dear Bavajadas readers, here
is the additional part of the fatherly advice that Randy gave to Avi:
?And now, as your Dad, I would like to share some fatherly wisdom that I?ve learned over
the years. Hopefully it will come in handy as you travel the roads of life. Work hard to make
the world a better place. Listen to those who care about you, but have the courage to go
with your own gut. Rarely will that decision let you down. Live for today while planning for
the future. And remember, but don?t dwell on the past. Realize that nineteen out of every
twenty people are good, decent people. Don?t let the one in twenty get you down. Delve
deeply into the wisdom and meaning of Judaism, yet surround yourself with good people of
all faiths. Aim to be relentlessly positive. You have been given a tremendous gift ? the gift of
life, surrounded by so many people who love you so much. Oh, and let us know if you have
any questions. We actually know more than you may think.
We love you so much, Avi Daniel, and we look forward to sharing this amazing journey with
you.?
Sephardic Ladino Heritage Association
Formed under the guidance of Al Maimon, this new group meets regularly to discuss the
possibilities of organizing all of our Ladino materials and resources and to teach our children
about their Sephardic-Ladino heritage. It is a major undertaking, requiring many volunteers
from our community. They are planning events and exhibitions, hoping to bring speakers
and create a resource center for reference materials in the pursuit of preserving our unique
traditions and history.
If you are interested in contributing, please contact Al Maimon at the Sephardic Bikur Holim
Synagogue: 206-723-3028.
MARCH 2004
PURILEEK, FULARIKOS Y PLATICOS DE PURIM is a part of PURIM along with
QUEEN ESTHER and Haman.
FULAREEKOS is a hard boiled egg caged in baked dough representing Haman in jail.
PURILEEK are coins given to children along with PLATICOS DE PURIM which consist of
sweet delicacies.
I beseech you, mothers and grandmothers, to introduce this "fading out" Sephardic tradition
to your family. I ME VAS A BENDEEZEER! (You'll bless me!)
PURIM PURIM LANU
PESAH IN LA MANO
YA VENU EL VERANO
PARA IR AL CAMPO
PURIM PURIM for us
PESAH is soon in hand
Summertime is here
So we can go on a picnic.
Or you can recite:
PURIM PURIM LANO
PESAH IN LA MANO
Meaning?
Better get cleaning the house and CASHONEES (drawers) for HAMTEZ (not edible for
PESAH) 'cause PESAH is just around the corner.
And then soberly recite:
DE PURIM A PESAH
MESHOR ERA ME MADRE
KE NO ME PARIA
Meaning?.
So much housework to do...that from PURIM to PESAH I wish my mother had not given
birth to me.
A foreign language not actively spoken is soon forgotten. So when a familiar word flashes
before me, I make note of it...lest I forget. Some of these words tickle my fancy and I can't
help but chuckle.
You may detect some discrepancies with the phrases I will share with you. I reiterate this is
the way I phonetically hear it.
For example, not until I actually saw the word "SUTLACH" written did I realize that
"SUCLACH" was not the correct pronunciation.
Can you identify with this situation?
Some phrases are automatically spoken without knowing the actual translation.
UNA VES A LA SHIMITA -- Once in a great while.
MASHALA is Arabic meaning "what wonders G-d wills" or in Spanish, NAMERA
MARAVIA KE IZO EL D-O. When one is paid a compliment, the word MASHALA is
added to ward off the evil eye.
El D-O KE NO TE APROVEE literally means ?May the Lord not make you poor?. In
actuality it says "May the Lord not grant you a tragedy similar to mine".
PICADO I MANZIA I DOLINA -- What a pity.
AFUERA DE TU CARA -- Outside your face, meaning to say "May you not be confronted
with this sad situation".
BEREKET VESEEN -- Thank goodness.
BERAHA ATZLAHA -- May you be granted blessings and success.
KESHAS ? here is an example: When a friend tells you "ASHKUSOON, EEN SEATTLEE
ESTAS? NE UN TELEFONE!"..translation.."Bravo, your still living in Seattle? And not
one single phone call from you!" Now that's a KESHA! A real complaint!
Thought of the Month
DUMPUES DE PURIM, PLATICOS...?After" PURIM you hand out PURIM delicacies?
Never!
Meaning?..
Do your task at its designated time. Help in the time of need, don't procrastinate.
FEBRUARY 2004
I shall relate a personal story regarding our Dr. Irving E. Benveniste Social Hall which was
donated in memory of his parents and my grandparents, Eliezer and Luna Benveniste. It is a
privilege and honor that I carry my Grandma Luna?s name!
ERMANA Lunar (sister Luna), as Grandma was called, was a sensitive wisp of a woman
with determination, a tremendous will and an ultimate goal to make a better life for her nine
adored children.
With the moral support of my grandfather, whom we called PAPU, they vowed that each
one of their children would attend school. Education was an essential ingredient to make
their dreams a reality. Grandma worked outside her home to supplement the "Alliance"
education of her children.
Over time, ignoring criticisms from a few and accepting blessings of many, this gallant lady
reluctantly but with dignity departed from the Island of Rhodes to America -- the land of
freedom and opportunity -- taking with her the two oldest and two youngest sons. One of
these sons was Dr. Irving Benveniste who has never forgotten his financial strife and struggle
and hence established several perpetual scholarships for his brethren in need.
Grandma's oldest daughter, Bohora, was newly married and in a family way living in Seattle.
So Grandma had to be with her. For two years Grandma saved her coins, working as a
loving foster mother and midwife to young SEPHARDIC brides in Seattle.
Yearning to see her family still left in Rhodes, her mission was accomplished when she was
able to purchase the travel fare for them to come to the United States.
I'm overwhelmed with emotion thinking of her accomplishments.
"If I could only tell you how much I love and admire you, Grandma. Thanks for your part in
helping our beautiful and rich Sephardic heritage to flourish. Thanks for the opportunity
afforded my children. You'd be proud of them, Grandma, as you were proud of your own.
Your two sons were physicians, and several grandchildren and great- grandchildren bear the
title of Doctor, including three of my own children. That is quite a family accomplishment for
which you can be so proud. It is with honor and humility that I carry your name!"
I share with you a parody recited by my mother, Rachel Peha of blessed memory, and
composed by Grandma Luna when she was separated from her family:
DE LESHOSH CAMINOS, VENGO POR VER TU CLARIDAD
CAMINOS DE ORO, ARE POR PODERVOS ALCANSAR.
Translation:
I come from a far away place hoping to see you in the bright of day, I hope to discover the
road of gold so we can be together again.
?NOVIA, MAZAL ALTO". I hear the echo of my papu Eliezer's blessings (may you be a
bride with supreme luck.) That was my cue to kiss his hand in reverence as it was placed on
my head.
How can one forget such a blessed man? A scholar, Papu taught in the EZRA
BESSAROTH Hebrew School. He was a perpetual reader stopping long enough to recite
stories from the Torah.
To this day I hear it said, "Your grandfather, Eliezer Benveniste, was my Hebrew teacher?a
good teacher, a gentle person!"
I shall never forget you Papu!
Let us go now, dear readers, from Bavajada?s reminiscence of yesterday, to the blessings of
today. I am overjoyed to announce the arrival of a new BIZ INIETO (great-grandson) who
is my 9th great-grandchild. Avi Daniel?s parents, Randy and Jennifer Kessler, proudly
announced their son?s new name at his recent Brit Milah. How beautiful it was to watch this
new life surrounded by love, adoration, ritual prayers and songs from nearly 100 guests.
Mashallah!! Following are the words that my grandson Randy said when he addressed his
newly-named son at the Brit Milah:
?We have been waiting 8 long days to call you by your name, Avi Daniel. The name Avi,
like your sister?s name Eliana, is a Hebrew name symbolizing your eternal connection with
the Jewish people. It literally means ?my father?, and enables us to honor our wonderful
fathers, Steve and Dick, who already love you more than you know. It also reflects the
name of Abraham, the father of the Jewish people. With the conviction that there is only one
G-d, he worked to change the world, even though the popular current was against him. We
hope that your name will also remind you of G-d, the Father of us all, who created you and
lovingly put you in our care.
Daniel, another Hebrew name, means ?G-d is my judge?. In the Torah, Daniel is a righteous
man who breaks the laws of his country by praying to G-d, and is sentenced to be thrown
into the lion?s den, where he is miraculously unharmed. We hope that the name will be an
inspiration to you, and we look forward to growing with you in our love for G-d and Torah.
It is with the deepest unconditional love humanly possible that we welcome you into this
world, into the community of the Jewish people, and into our family.?
Thought of the Day:
KEN TIENE MAZAL TIENE VENTURA
Who has been blessed with luck has good fortune in life.
JANUARY 2004
You are standing on the corner of 15th and Fir Street...you look around in dismay. Where is
Congregation EZRA BESSAROTH with its Star of David so proudly and majestically
displayed, as if guarding the entrance. The building is gone...vanished! "I must be
dreaming", you wail.
Shaking your head in despair you walk towards 15th and Yesler, hoping to see Reverend
Behar's house. You turn the corner and sight a familiar tree. So staunch it stands, though
gnarled with age. If it could only talk, what stories would unfold. What memories it could
share, recalling Alegra with playmate Lenora climbing its sturdy branches and daring to jump
on the roof of the house. But... where is the house? Has that disappeared too? For sure you
must be dreaming!
Returning to 15th and Fir Street your eyes rest on a familiar sight -- Judd Israel's house. It
still stands. What a relief. At this point you decide to check out your old stomping grounds at
19th and Fir. You trudge up the street, when you suddenly sight a stately building. It's the
BIKUR HOLIM synagogue peeking out at you, and beckoning like a call from the SHOFAR.
Nostalgia pulls at your heartstrings as you look beyond the vacant lots and condominiums.
Alas with a leap of the imagination you can envision the sweet and caring Zimbul Akrish
Caston picking grape leaves for YAPRAKES and green grapes for AGRESTADA (sauce for
fish).
Tia Sturulachi is hanging out her wash, starting with CHAMASHEERES (underclothing).
Rachel de Mateo Peha is holding her clothes pins as they ECHAR LASHON (chatted).
Down the block Sol Halfon and Connie Tacher are chalking up the sidewalk for a hot game
of hopscotch. Zimbul Tacher insists that they wash up the mess. What a busy neighborhood!
Look at Eugenie Altaras with a hand motion beckoning the neighbors to come over for UN
FINJAN DE CAFE (a demitasse of coffee). You make sure to join them because you know
that UN FINJAN DE CAFE can also mean she'll serve BUREKAS, PARMARK, DULCE,
OLIVES DE CHAKISTE, CASHCAVAL, LIKUM and more.
Those two youngsters on the porch playing jacks add to the overall picture of the
neighborhood. Why it's Fannie (Chiprut) Roberts and Becky (Peha) Romano.
Wherever you turn there's action. You observe a solemn looking bearded man, briskly
strolling towards the synagogue with satchel in hand. Of course, he's collecting CASHICAS
DE SEDAKA (charity cans).
The distant din of the Yesler streetcar mingles with the cry of "ollie ollie oxen free", a
favorite children's game. Your eyes swell with tears as you jump in your car and...return to
your adult reality.
What other nostalgic memories do you envision?
Some proverbs certainly prove to be quite a challenge when translating. My BAVAJADAS
readers will note that many proverbs can readily contain several thoughts and meanings.
EL KEN SE DA AJELE, SE KAYE. One who hurries will fall - meaning: One who rushes
through a
project will surely make a mess of it.
AVLA LA VERDAD, PIEDRES LA AMISTAD. Speak the truth and you lose affection -
meaning: Don't be too critical or you're sure to lose a friendship.
SALTA ONDE PUEDES, NO ONDE KIERES. Jump only as far as you can, not as far as
you want -meaning: Set your goal within your capacity. A bird in the hand is worth two in the
bush.
Thought of the Month: SCRITO ESTA EN LA PALMA, LO QUE TIENE PASAR LA
ALMA.
Translation: It is written in the palm of your hand what will pass through your soul, meaning
it's been written in the palm of your hand from the day of your birth, the pleasures and
heartaches you will experience in your lifetime. (So, why complain...it's fate).
FALL 2003
Come along with Bavajadas as we take a trip back through time to visit the old
neighborhood. By stretching our imagination, we can watch "our world" prepare for the High
Holidays. By the way, "our world" extended from Jackson Street to East Jefferson in those
days.
The summer is gradually fading away as the fragrance of autumn fills the air. It's the time of
the year when ROSH HASHANA and YOM KIPPUR peek through the horizon. We are all
preparing to greet the New Year. Among other chores, mothers are busily sewing our
dresses with the fancy hemsrich ruffle. We're sure to be the belle of the synagogue. ROSH
HASHANA also means new patent leather shoes, lacy underclothing, a gold SHADAI, a
bracelet, and of course a hair cut. Incidentally, a free bag of candy went with every 25- cent
haircut. (If I had my way, I'd have had a haircut every day!)
Are you the lucky boy who has a new suit? The tie literally chokes you but you don't seem
to care. You feel so grown up! Mother is calling you, because running errands is your part of
the action. First a trip to the butcher for chicken and "choke" meat (chuck), then the fish
market for fresh "porch" (perch). With the accent, English took on a new meaning.
Our dad loads up his shopping bags with fruits and vegetables for the YEHIRATZONES
from the Pike Place Market. YEHIRATZONES is a fast sampling of each food with a prayer
symbolizing a good omen, PARA EL PRECIPIO DEL ANYO. (For the start of the year).
The following is one of the prayers in LADINO. The apples are sweetened and eaten in any
form:
SE AVELUNTADO DELANTRE DE TI, ADONAI NUESTRO DIO Y DIO DE
NUESTROS PADRES, KE SE RENUVE SOVRE NOZOTROS ANYADA BUENA Y
DULCE. DE PRESIPIO DEL ANIO Y ASTA
KAVO EL ANYO.
Translation: May it by thy will, Lord our G-d and G-d of our fathers to renew upon us a
good and sweet year. From the beginning of the year till the end of the year.
Did you know that KOL NIDRE means "All vows"? It's a prelude to the Day of Atonement.
It is not a hymn, but a deeply felt religious experience, inducing a state of emotional release,
especially to the SEPHARDIM since the KOL NIDRE became the supreme prayer to
reconcile the unfortunate converts in Spain and Portugal who had involuntarily broken their
vows to G-d and Judaism. That explains why a mystic spell seems to reign in our sanctuary
during the KOL NIDRE services. .... and now SUCCOTH is upon us. We all start to eat
again.
COMIDAS Y PASTELICOS. SALUD, BARUH HASHEM.
The SUCCAH is nailed together and the fruit is hung around, and then the rain begins to fall,
but we don't mind at all. SUCCOTH means Tabernacle and serves as a double celebration. It
has become a Jewish Thanksgiving that offers thanks to the Almighty for the bountiful
harvest.
The pilgrims of early American history were faithful to their Bible. Therefore the American
holiday of Thanksgiving is based on the Jewish festival of SUCCOTH. It is also a reminder
of the forty years that Jews wandered in the desert while living in makeshift lean-to shelters.
We must assure our children the experience of the wondrous beauty in our heritage, by
encouraging them to join in the "SUCCAH Hop". What is a. SUCCAH Hop? After the
morning services on the first day of SUCCOTH, youngsters and parents tour several
SUCCAHS in the immediate neighborhood. With song and merriment they are treated to
holiday delicacies.
SIMCHATH TORAH is here at last, and what a joy to see the children carrying TORAHS
and waving flags as they all laugh and sing with glee. SIMCHATH TORAH means Rejoicing
in the Law. We end reading the Five Books of Moses, only to begin again. The cycle is
eternal! As 5763 draws to a close, we send best wishes to all of you for a Happy New Year.
TIZKU LESHANIM RABOT!
Thought for the Month: Did you know that some of the hats worn on the high holidays are
"DE MIL MARAFETEES" (worth a million marvels)?
Keridos amigos mios de Bavajadas, today is the day I've threatened you all with a LADINO
test!! Word is that university students are cheating on tests. I know that I can trust your
honesty!! Right? So sharpen your mind and pencils -- LETS GO!!
Translate: Avia un Muluho ke si yamava Juha. Agora Juha mos konto un konsejo, i ke
maskara!! Ken bele ke la manya estava durmiendo. Es ke no lo izo maksus. Ki bila ke me
vino en mi kavesa. Hones-ti Ga no es ke kero avlar ama si no ti lo digo, komo vas a
saver? Fue a la kusina i mi ruvo un kuyajak, na este boy! Kon la maya in la mano es ke
izo mukayet de azer yougurt. Adio, ijo bueno ya lo ago yo. Se dichiso de komer. Se vistio
la kasketa. Komo el otro likerdi no mi esta sintiendo. Pasensia ke mi mande el D-o, ke
pikados izi yo! Juha suyo Juha se mityo un kayimaso infrente de la kamisa. No le esta
keshiando esta kayimaso, paresi komo un jingano! Haram ke no ti aga!! Na ke enkasho
un pidaso de tutum en la kara kon la yaka inkujido i nigresido, kon los churapis de dos
kolores i los shirites enkolgando. Ya ti kishio! Ke haal mi vino en mi kavesa! En supito el
zavali se fue afuera para regar kon el hurtun, sin un mitaleek en la tukera.
Finished? Send your completed test to Bavajadasdeluna@aol.com and I will grade it.
Well, my dear friends, how did it go? Including all these words into a story was not an easy
task. I also added some Turkish words to challenge you that much more!! Be prepared to
catch my translation in the next issue.
The camaraderie and enthusiasm we all felt on the Sunday afternoon when The Rhodes
Jewish Historical Foundation visited Congregation Ezra Bessaroth was wonderful to behold.
The 800-year-old Torah from Spain and Rhodes was proudly presented as one of the oldest
scrolls in the world by Aron Hasson, founder of The Jewish Museum of Rhodes. This
special treasure survived the Spanish Inquisition and the Holocaust. Aron Hasson explained
that in 1943 when the German military took control of Rhodes, leaders of the Jewish
community gave their Torahs to the Turkish community leaders who hid and protected the
sacred scrolls. The Torahs were carefully and successfully hidden in the mosque and were
held safely until the war was over. Aron spoke further about the historical background and
then presented a short documentary video of this ancient Sephardic Sefer Torah. We also
saw a special photo collection of "Jewish Life in Rhodes" which was fascinating! These
touching photos of our heritage are available for showing on the Ezra Bessaroth web site. It
was definitely a walk down ?Sephardic Memory Lane? for all of us. Supreme thanks and
sincere appreciation on this momentous milestone to Aron Hasson!
What a special treat for me, Bavajadas, when Aron Hasson joined me as my guest for lunch
at Island House the Friday morning prior to his Sunday viewing. He chuckled as I told him
about the antics of his parents who were friends of mine during the few years I spent in LA
as a teenager. I graduated from high school with his father, Ted, and was active in several
Sephardic organizations with him. Those were the days, my friend! His mother, Pearl
Benoun was much younger and lived in my block on 49th Street between Figueroa and
Broadway. Now you know the rest of the story.
WHAT ELSE IS NEW? My own family as well as other community members are
participating in and dedicated to volunteer work for various deserving causes.
Earlier this year I saw my niece, Jeannie Peha (daughter of my brother Joe Peha), standing
outside Albertsons super market. ?Mos apiade para bueno?.what are you doing here,
honey?? I said. Jeannie told me that she was volunteering for our Jewish Family Service.
She then gave me a flyer from JFS stating that they are collecting non-perishable Kosher
food to make gift baskets for low-income Seniors. This was holiday time and her barrel was
full of groceries. Bravo, ijica mia!! I was so proud of her that I almost announced through the
microphone ?That's my niece!?
Oh, I must tell you of another delightful episode. I happily attended Natan Ben Meir?s Bar
Mitzvah. When I received his thank you note, in addition to thanking me for his gift, he also
told me that he sent a certain percentage of his Bar Mitzvah gift money to a community
service organization for the blind with the hope that they can cure Joe's blindness.
He added that he prays for Mr. Peha often. What a beautiful gesture and, yes, I shed a
few tears.
Continuing on with devoted volunteers?.my sister-in-law, Rita Peha, volunteered to serve
another year as president of the Ezra Bessaroth Ladies Auxiliary. Needless to say, with the
willing support of Rita?s husband, and my brother, Joe Peha, Rita's hard work and endless
devotion are truly exceptional. There I go again, remembering one of Mama's favorite
sayings "Aiy i Aiy" meaning "there is and there is??. She could be just a mediocre president
or she could be a superb president?and, of course, we all know that Rita is in the ?superb?
category.
I am proud to tell you that I have completed 27 years of volunteering my time at the Kline
Galland Home. I certainly agree with the phrase, ?You can?t pay me to be a volunteer.?
What a profound and joyous experience for me to share with my Bavajadas audience the
special moments and milestones in my life. I do thank you. In an earlier issue I quoted a few
lines of grandson Randy Kessler's message at the Brit Milah of his son, and my
great-grandson, Avi. In that part of his message, Randy spoke about the origin and meaning
behind his new son?s name, Avi Daniel. What a blessing when we each experience similar
words surrounded by family and friends. Amen. And now, my dear Bavajadas readers, here
is the additional part of the fatherly advice that Randy gave to Avi:
?And now, as your Dad, I would like to share some fatherly wisdom that I?ve learned over
the years. Hopefully it will come in handy as you travel the roads of life. Work hard to make
the world a better place. Listen to those who care about you, but have the courage to go
with your own gut. Rarely will that decision let you down. Live for today while planning for
the future. And remember, but don?t dwell on the past. Realize that nineteen out of every
twenty people are good, decent people. Don?t let the one in twenty get you down. Delve
deeply into the wisdom and meaning of Judaism, yet surround yourself with good people of
all faiths. Aim to be relentlessly positive. You have been given a tremendous gift ? the gift of
life, surrounded by so many people who love you so much. Oh, and let us know if you have
any questions. We actually know more than you may think.
We love you so much, Avi Daniel, and we look forward to sharing this amazing journey with
you.?
Sephardic Ladino Heritage Association
Formed under the guidance of Al Maimon, this new group meets regularly to discuss the
possibilities of organizing all of our Ladino materials and resources and to teach our children
about their Sephardic-Ladino heritage. It is a major undertaking, requiring many volunteers
from our community. They are planning events and exhibitions, hoping to bring speakers
and create a resource center for reference materials in the pursuit of preserving our unique
traditions and history.
If you are interested in contributing, please contact Al Maimon at the Sephardic Bikur Holim
Synagogue: 206-723-3028.
MARCH 2004
PURILEEK, FULARIKOS Y PLATICOS DE PURIM is a part of PURIM along with
QUEEN ESTHER and Haman.
FULAREEKOS is a hard boiled egg caged in baked dough representing Haman in jail.
PURILEEK are coins given to children along with PLATICOS DE PURIM which consist of
sweet delicacies.
I beseech you, mothers and grandmothers, to introduce this "fading out" Sephardic tradition
to your family. I ME VAS A BENDEEZEER! (You'll bless me!)
PURIM PURIM LANU
PESAH IN LA MANO
YA VENU EL VERANO
PARA IR AL CAMPO
PURIM PURIM for us
PESAH is soon in hand
Summertime is here
So we can go on a picnic.
Or you can recite:
PURIM PURIM LANO
PESAH IN LA MANO
Meaning?
Better get cleaning the house and CASHONEES (drawers) for HAMTEZ (not edible for
PESAH) 'cause PESAH is just around the corner.
And then soberly recite:
DE PURIM A PESAH
MESHOR ERA ME MADRE
KE NO ME PARIA
Meaning?.
So much housework to do...that from PURIM to PESAH I wish my mother had not given
birth to me.
A foreign language not actively spoken is soon forgotten. So when a familiar word flashes
before me, I make note of it...lest I forget. Some of these words tickle my fancy and I can't
help but chuckle.
You may detect some discrepancies with the phrases I will share with you. I reiterate this is
the way I phonetically hear it.
For example, not until I actually saw the word "SUTLACH" written did I realize that
"SUCLACH" was not the correct pronunciation.
Can you identify with this situation?
Some phrases are automatically spoken without knowing the actual translation.
UNA VES A LA SHIMITA -- Once in a great while.
MASHALA is Arabic meaning "what wonders G-d wills" or in Spanish, NAMERA
MARAVIA KE IZO EL D-O. When one is paid a compliment, the word MASHALA is
added to ward off the evil eye.
El D-O KE NO TE APROVEE literally means ?May the Lord not make you poor?. In
actuality it says "May the Lord not grant you a tragedy similar to mine".
PICADO I MANZIA I DOLINA -- What a pity.
AFUERA DE TU CARA -- Outside your face, meaning to say "May you not be confronted
with this sad situation".
BEREKET VESEEN -- Thank goodness.
BERAHA ATZLAHA -- May you be granted blessings and success.
KESHAS ? here is an example: When a friend tells you "ASHKUSOON, EEN SEATTLEE
ESTAS? NE UN TELEFONE!"..translation.."Bravo, your still living in Seattle? And not
one single phone call from you!" Now that's a KESHA! A real complaint!
Thought of the Month
DUMPUES DE PURIM, PLATICOS...?After" PURIM you hand out PURIM delicacies?
Never!
Meaning?..
Do your task at its designated time. Help in the time of need, don't procrastinate.
FEBRUARY 2004
I shall relate a personal story regarding our Dr. Irving E. Benveniste Social Hall which was
donated in memory of his parents and my grandparents, Eliezer and Luna Benveniste. It is a
privilege and honor that I carry my Grandma Luna?s name!
ERMANA Lunar (sister Luna), as Grandma was called, was a sensitive wisp of a woman
with determination, a tremendous will and an ultimate goal to make a better life for her nine
adored children.
With the moral support of my grandfather, whom we called PAPU, they vowed that each
one of their children would attend school. Education was an essential ingredient to make
their dreams a reality. Grandma worked outside her home to supplement the "Alliance"
education of her children.
Over time, ignoring criticisms from a few and accepting blessings of many, this gallant lady
reluctantly but with dignity departed from the Island of Rhodes to America -- the land of
freedom and opportunity -- taking with her the two oldest and two youngest sons. One of
these sons was Dr. Irving Benveniste who has never forgotten his financial strife and struggle
and hence established several perpetual scholarships for his brethren in need.
Grandma's oldest daughter, Bohora, was newly married and in a family way living in Seattle.
So Grandma had to be with her. For two years Grandma saved her coins, working as a
loving foster mother and midwife to young SEPHARDIC brides in Seattle.
Yearning to see her family still left in Rhodes, her mission was accomplished when she was
able to purchase the travel fare for them to come to the United States.
I'm overwhelmed with emotion thinking of her accomplishments.
"If I could only tell you how much I love and admire you, Grandma. Thanks for your part in
helping our beautiful and rich Sephardic heritage to flourish. Thanks for the opportunity
afforded my children. You'd be proud of them, Grandma, as you were proud of your own.
Your two sons were physicians, and several grandchildren and great- grandchildren bear the
title of Doctor, including three of my own children. That is quite a family accomplishment for
which you can be so proud. It is with honor and humility that I carry your name!"
I share with you a parody recited by my mother, Rachel Peha of blessed memory, and
composed by Grandma Luna when she was separated from her family:
DE LESHOSH CAMINOS, VENGO POR VER TU CLARIDAD
CAMINOS DE ORO, ARE POR PODERVOS ALCANSAR.
Translation:
I come from a far away place hoping to see you in the bright of day, I hope to discover the
road of gold so we can be together again.
?NOVIA, MAZAL ALTO". I hear the echo of my papu Eliezer's blessings (may you be a
bride with supreme luck.) That was my cue to kiss his hand in reverence as it was placed on
my head.
How can one forget such a blessed man? A scholar, Papu taught in the EZRA
BESSAROTH Hebrew School. He was a perpetual reader stopping long enough to recite
stories from the Torah.
To this day I hear it said, "Your grandfather, Eliezer Benveniste, was my Hebrew teacher?a
good teacher, a gentle person!"
I shall never forget you Papu!
Let us go now, dear readers, from Bavajada?s reminiscence of yesterday, to the blessings of
today. I am overjoyed to announce the arrival of a new BIZ INIETO (great-grandson) who
is my 9th great-grandchild. Avi Daniel?s parents, Randy and Jennifer Kessler, proudly
announced their son?s new name at his recent Brit Milah. How beautiful it was to watch this
new life surrounded by love, adoration, ritual prayers and songs from nearly 100 guests.
Mashallah!! Following are the words that my grandson Randy said when he addressed his
newly-named son at the Brit Milah:
?We have been waiting 8 long days to call you by your name, Avi Daniel. The name Avi,
like your sister?s name Eliana, is a Hebrew name symbolizing your eternal connection with
the Jewish people. It literally means ?my father?, and enables us to honor our wonderful
fathers, Steve and Dick, who already love you more than you know. It also reflects the
name of Abraham, the father of the Jewish people. With the conviction that there is only one
G-d, he worked to change the world, even though the popular current was against him. We
hope that your name will also remind you of G-d, the Father of us all, who created you and
lovingly put you in our care.
Daniel, another Hebrew name, means ?G-d is my judge?. In the Torah, Daniel is a righteous
man who breaks the laws of his country by praying to G-d, and is sentenced to be thrown
into the lion?s den, where he is miraculously unharmed. We hope that the name will be an
inspiration to you, and we look forward to growing with you in our love for G-d and Torah.
It is with the deepest unconditional love humanly possible that we welcome you into this
world, into the community of the Jewish people, and into our family.?
Thought of the Day:
KEN TIENE MAZAL TIENE VENTURA
Who has been blessed with luck has good fortune in life.
JANUARY 2004
You are standing on the corner of 15th and Fir Street...you look around in dismay. Where is
Congregation EZRA BESSAROTH with its Star of David so proudly and majestically
displayed, as if guarding the entrance. The building is gone...vanished! "I must be
dreaming", you wail.
Shaking your head in despair you walk towards 15th and Yesler, hoping to see Reverend
Behar's house. You turn the corner and sight a familiar tree. So staunch it stands, though
gnarled with age. If it could only talk, what stories would unfold. What memories it could
share, recalling Alegra with playmate Lenora climbing its sturdy branches and daring to jump
on the roof of the house. But... where is the house? Has that disappeared too? For sure you
must be dreaming!
Returning to 15th and Fir Street your eyes rest on a familiar sight -- Judd Israel's house. It
still stands. What a relief. At this point you decide to check out your old stomping grounds at
19th and Fir. You trudge up the street, when you suddenly sight a stately building. It's the
BIKUR HOLIM synagogue peeking out at you, and beckoning like a call from the SHOFAR.
Nostalgia pulls at your heartstrings as you look beyond the vacant lots and condominiums.
Alas with a leap of the imagination you can envision the sweet and caring Zimbul Akrish
Caston picking grape leaves for YAPRAKES and green grapes for AGRESTADA (sauce for
fish).
Tia Sturulachi is hanging out her wash, starting with CHAMASHEERES (underclothing).
Rachel de Mateo Peha is holding her clothes pins as they ECHAR LASHON (chatted).
Down the block Sol Halfon and Connie Tacher are chalking up the sidewalk for a hot game
of hopscotch. Zimbul Tacher insists that they wash up the mess. What a busy neighborhood!
Look at Eugenie Altaras with a hand motion beckoning the neighbors to come over for UN
FINJAN DE CAFE (a demitasse of coffee). You make sure to join them because you know
that UN FINJAN DE CAFE can also mean she'll serve BUREKAS, PARMARK, DULCE,
OLIVES DE CHAKISTE, CASHCAVAL, LIKUM and more.
Those two youngsters on the porch playing jacks add to the overall picture of the
neighborhood. Why it's Fannie (Chiprut) Roberts and Becky (Peha) Romano.
Wherever you turn there's action. You observe a solemn looking bearded man, briskly
strolling towards the synagogue with satchel in hand. Of course, he's collecting CASHICAS
DE SEDAKA (charity cans).
The distant din of the Yesler streetcar mingles with the cry of "ollie ollie oxen free", a
favorite children's game. Your eyes swell with tears as you jump in your car and...return to
your adult reality.
What other nostalgic memories do you envision?
Some proverbs certainly prove to be quite a challenge when translating. My BAVAJADAS
readers will note that many proverbs can readily contain several thoughts and meanings.
EL KEN SE DA AJELE, SE KAYE. One who hurries will fall - meaning: One who rushes
through a
project will surely make a mess of it.
AVLA LA VERDAD, PIEDRES LA AMISTAD. Speak the truth and you lose affection -
meaning: Don't be too critical or you're sure to lose a friendship.
SALTA ONDE PUEDES, NO ONDE KIERES. Jump only as far as you can, not as far as
you want -meaning: Set your goal within your capacity. A bird in the hand is worth two in the
bush.
Thought of the Month: SCRITO ESTA EN LA PALMA, LO QUE TIENE PASAR LA
ALMA.
Translation: It is written in the palm of your hand what will pass through your soul, meaning
it's been written in the palm of your hand from the day of your birth, the pleasures and
heartaches you will experience in your lifetime. (So, why complain...it's fate).
FALL 2003
Come along with Bavajadas as we take a trip back through time to visit the old
neighborhood. By stretching our imagination, we can watch "our world" prepare for the High
Holidays. By the way, "our world" extended from Jackson Street to East Jefferson in those
days.
The summer is gradually fading away as the fragrance of autumn fills the air. It's the time of
the year when ROSH HASHANA and YOM KIPPUR peek through the horizon. We are all
preparing to greet the New Year. Among other chores, mothers are busily sewing our
dresses with the fancy hemsrich ruffle. We're sure to be the belle of the synagogue. ROSH
HASHANA also means new patent leather shoes, lacy underclothing, a gold SHADAI, a
bracelet, and of course a hair cut. Incidentally, a free bag of candy went with every 25- cent
haircut. (If I had my way, I'd have had a haircut every day!)
Are you the lucky boy who has a new suit? The tie literally chokes you but you don't seem
to care. You feel so grown up! Mother is calling you, because running errands is your part of
the action. First a trip to the butcher for chicken and "choke" meat (chuck), then the fish
market for fresh "porch" (perch). With the accent, English took on a new meaning.
Our dad loads up his shopping bags with fruits and vegetables for the YEHIRATZONES
from the Pike Place Market. YEHIRATZONES is a fast sampling of each food with a prayer
symbolizing a good omen, PARA EL PRECIPIO DEL ANYO. (For the start of the year).
The following is one of the prayers in LADINO. The apples are sweetened and eaten in any
form:
SE AVELUNTADO DELANTRE DE TI, ADONAI NUESTRO DIO Y DIO DE
NUESTROS PADRES, KE SE RENUVE SOVRE NOZOTROS ANYADA BUENA Y
DULCE. DE PRESIPIO DEL ANIO Y ASTA
KAVO EL ANYO.
Translation: May it by thy will, Lord our G-d and G-d of our fathers to renew upon us a
good and sweet year. From the beginning of the year till the end of the year.
Did you know that KOL NIDRE means "All vows"? It's a prelude to the Day of Atonement.
It is not a hymn, but a deeply felt religious experience, inducing a state of emotional release,
especially to the SEPHARDIM since the KOL NIDRE became the supreme prayer to
reconcile the unfortunate converts in Spain and Portugal who had involuntarily broken their
vows to G-d and Judaism. That explains why a mystic spell seems to reign in our sanctuary
during the KOL NIDRE services. .... and now SUCCOTH is upon us. We all start to eat
again.
COMIDAS Y PASTELICOS. SALUD, BARUH HASHEM.
The SUCCAH is nailed together and the fruit is hung around, and then the rain begins to fall,
but we don't mind at all. SUCCOTH means Tabernacle and serves as a double celebration. It
has become a Jewish Thanksgiving that offers thanks to the Almighty for the bountiful
harvest.
The pilgrims of early American history were faithful to their Bible. Therefore the American
holiday of Thanksgiving is based on the Jewish festival of SUCCOTH. It is also a reminder
of the forty years that Jews wandered in the desert while living in makeshift lean-to shelters.
We must assure our children the experience of the wondrous beauty in our heritage, by
encouraging them to join in the "SUCCAH Hop". What is a. SUCCAH Hop? After the
morning services on the first day of SUCCOTH, youngsters and parents tour several
SUCCAHS in the immediate neighborhood. With song and merriment they are treated to
holiday delicacies.
SIMCHATH TORAH is here at last, and what a joy to see the children carrying TORAHS
and waving flags as they all laugh and sing with glee. SIMCHATH TORAH means Rejoicing
in the Law. We end reading the Five Books of Moses, only to begin again. The cycle is
eternal! As 5763 draws to a close, we send best wishes to all of you for a Happy New Year.
TIZKU LESHANIM RABOT!
Thought for the Month: Did you know that some of the hats worn on the high holidays are
"DE MIL MARAFETEES" (worth a million marvels)?
| Bavajadas De Benadam Observations on Sephardic Life By Leni Lamarche Contact Leni - Click Here |
| CLICK IMAGE ABOVE |
PURIM 2008
Purim is on its way! Will I see you at our wonderful and festive Ezra Bessaroth annual
Purim carnival on March 16? My favorite part is that delicious Sephardic food that our
dedicated Ladies Auxiliary members have prepared over many months. Thank you, dear
ladies, for all that you do on behalf of our KEHILAH!! I also enjoy seeing the familiar
faces from throughout our community. Along with my family members, we love to sit at a
table, sip our KAVE, munch on our YAPRAKES and BULEMAS while we chat away.
And don’t forget the bingo game, kid’s activities and all the vendors with their tempting
products. It’s a place where the young and the young-at-heart (like your Bavajadas!) can
have fun. See you there!
PURILEEK, FULARIKOS Y PLATICOS DE PURIM is a part of PURIM along with
Queen Esther and Haman.
FULAREEKOS is a hard boiled egg caged in baked dough representing Haman in jail.
PURILEEK are coins given to children along with PLATICOS DE PURIM which consist
of sweet delicacies.
I beseech you, mothers and grandmothers, to introduce this "fading out" Sephardic
tradition to your family. I ME VAS A BENDEEZEER! (You'll bless me!)
PURIM PURIM LANU, PESAH IN LA MANO
YA VENU EL VERANO, PARA IR AL CAMPO
PURIM PURIM for us, PESAH is soon at hand
Summertime is here, So we can go on a picnic.
Or you can recite: PURIM PURIM LANO, PESAH IN LA MANO
Meaning…….Better get cleaning the house and CASHONEES (drawers) for HAMTEZ
(not edible for PESAH) 'cause PESAH is just around the corner.
And then soberly recite: DE PURIM A PESAH….MESHOR ERA MI MADRE
KE NO ME PARIA
Meaning…….So much housework to do...that from PURIM to PESAH I wish my mother
had not given birth to me.
A foreign language not actively spoken is soon forgotten. So when a familiar word flashes
before me, I make note of it...lest I forget. Some of these words tickle my fancy and I
can't help but chuckle.
You may detect some discrepancies with the phrases I will share with you. I reiterate this
is the way I phonetically hear it.
For example, not until I actually saw the word "SUTLACH" written did I realize that
"SUCLACH" was not the correct pronunciation.
Can you identify with this situation? Some phrases are automatically spoken without
knowing the actual translation.
UNA VES A LA SHIMITA -- Once in a great while.
MASHALA is Arabic meaning "what wonders G-d wills" or in Spanish, NAMERA
MARAVIA KE IZO EL D-O. When one is paid a compliment, the word MASHALA is
added to ward off the evil eye.
El D-O KE NO TE APROVEE literally means “May the Lord not make you poor”. In
actuality it says "May the Lord not grant you a tragedy similar to mine".
PICADO I MANZIA I DOLINA -- What a pity.
AFUERA DE TU CARA -- Outside your face, meaning to say "May you not be
confronted with this sad situation".
BEREKET VESEEN -- Thank goodness.
BERAHA ATZLAHA -- May you be granted blessings and success.
KESHAS – here is an example: When a friend tells you "ASHKUSOON, EEN
SEATTLEE ESTAS? NE UN TELEFONE!"..translation.."Bravo, your still living in
Seattle? And not one single phone call from you!" Now that's a KESHA! A real
complaint!
Thought of the Month
DUMPUES DE PURIM, PLATICOS..."After" PURIM you hand out PURIM delicacies?
Never! Meaning…..Do your task at its designated time. Help in the time of need, don't
procrastinate.
Purim is on its way! Will I see you at our wonderful and festive Ezra Bessaroth annual
Purim carnival on March 16? My favorite part is that delicious Sephardic food that our
dedicated Ladies Auxiliary members have prepared over many months. Thank you, dear
ladies, for all that you do on behalf of our KEHILAH!! I also enjoy seeing the familiar
faces from throughout our community. Along with my family members, we love to sit at a
table, sip our KAVE, munch on our YAPRAKES and BULEMAS while we chat away.
And don’t forget the bingo game, kid’s activities and all the vendors with their tempting
products. It’s a place where the young and the young-at-heart (like your Bavajadas!) can
have fun. See you there!
PURILEEK, FULARIKOS Y PLATICOS DE PURIM is a part of PURIM along with
Queen Esther and Haman.
FULAREEKOS is a hard boiled egg caged in baked dough representing Haman in jail.
PURILEEK are coins given to children along with PLATICOS DE PURIM which consist
of sweet delicacies.
I beseech you, mothers and grandmothers, to introduce this "fading out" Sephardic
tradition to your family. I ME VAS A BENDEEZEER! (You'll bless me!)
PURIM PURIM LANU, PESAH IN LA MANO
YA VENU EL VERANO, PARA IR AL CAMPO
PURIM PURIM for us, PESAH is soon at hand
Summertime is here, So we can go on a picnic.
Or you can recite: PURIM PURIM LANO, PESAH IN LA MANO
Meaning…….Better get cleaning the house and CASHONEES (drawers) for HAMTEZ
(not edible for PESAH) 'cause PESAH is just around the corner.
And then soberly recite: DE PURIM A PESAH….MESHOR ERA MI MADRE
KE NO ME PARIA
Meaning…….So much housework to do...that from PURIM to PESAH I wish my mother
had not given birth to me.
A foreign language not actively spoken is soon forgotten. So when a familiar word flashes
before me, I make note of it...lest I forget. Some of these words tickle my fancy and I
can't help but chuckle.
You may detect some discrepancies with the phrases I will share with you. I reiterate this
is the way I phonetically hear it.
For example, not until I actually saw the word "SUTLACH" written did I realize that
"SUCLACH" was not the correct pronunciation.
Can you identify with this situation? Some phrases are automatically spoken without
knowing the actual translation.
UNA VES A LA SHIMITA -- Once in a great while.
MASHALA is Arabic meaning "what wonders G-d wills" or in Spanish, NAMERA
MARAVIA KE IZO EL D-O. When one is paid a compliment, the word MASHALA is
added to ward off the evil eye.
El D-O KE NO TE APROVEE literally means “May the Lord not make you poor”. In
actuality it says "May the Lord not grant you a tragedy similar to mine".
PICADO I MANZIA I DOLINA -- What a pity.
AFUERA DE TU CARA -- Outside your face, meaning to say "May you not be
confronted with this sad situation".
BEREKET VESEEN -- Thank goodness.
BERAHA ATZLAHA -- May you be granted blessings and success.
KESHAS – here is an example: When a friend tells you "ASHKUSOON, EEN
SEATTLEE ESTAS? NE UN TELEFONE!"..translation.."Bravo, your still living in
Seattle? And not one single phone call from you!" Now that's a KESHA! A real
complaint!
Thought of the Month
DUMPUES DE PURIM, PLATICOS..."After" PURIM you hand out PURIM delicacies?
Never! Meaning…..Do your task at its designated time. Help in the time of need, don't
procrastinate.