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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 Archive Observations on Sephardic Life By Leni Lamarche |
BAVAJADAS FOR PURIM 2011
Are you waiting for the first blossoms of Springtime? I surely am! I’ve said good-bye to 2010 and, while
Thanksgiving and Hanukah are long gone, they reminded me of some light-hearted stories from my youth that I can
include in my BAVAJADAS DE BENADAM column for all of you.
Picture this! It's 1931 on Yesler Way at the corner of 19th. There I was, ten years old, looking into 'LA STANJA
DEL CASAP' (butcher shop). What a sight! Huge, plump, lifeless turkeys were hanging from hooks, upside down,
against the wall all in a row. I see a Sephardic housewife, clutching the neck of a turkey with its black feathers
flowing every which way. I wondered in dismay “how can she 'DESPLUMAR' (pluck) all those feathers by hand”?
That scene is forever implanted in my mind. Our Sephardic parents were from strong stock!
Would you believe that I was twenty-one years old before I even tasted turkey? Every year it was, “Mama, can we
have turkey for Thanksgiving?” The standard answer was, 'AGORA NO, AL OTRO ANYO!' (Not now, next year!)
Next year never came. Mama was such a connoisseur in her kitchen so what did she have against turkeys? I then
realized that turkeys intimidated her with their large bodies and many feathers. The same with apple pie DE
MANSANA. She did finally bake apple pie and it was truly delicious, but the pie was always square. Can you
relate?
Moving on to Hanukah….what a chore for me! Get out the HANUKIAH, purchase the candles, and from year to year
forget which side is lit first. And then I would remember how Mama managed her Hanukah preparations. First you
need nine shot glasses. Next are the MECHAS. What is a MECHA? That's a wick. Then pick a straw from a
broom and twist some cotton gently around the straw. New, fresh cotton doesn't work properly. Old, dry cotton,
preferably from an old COLCHA (quilt), does the trick. Cut a 'TENEEKEH' (tin can) into the shape of a wick
holder. Fill 3/4 of the shot glass with water. Insert the cotton 'MECHA' in the 'TENEEKEH' holder and pour oil on
the cotton and in the water. Then light with a match. Somehow, that flame lit mystically brighter. Repeat for eight
nights. After Hanukah, the 'BUYALEEK' (woodwork) might need scrubbing from the stain of the smoke residue of
the flame. Now that is work!
Do you First Generation Sephardic-Americans realize that we have been blessed with the customs, culture and
wisdom of both worlds? Think about it. Don't take it for granted. We were 'ENGRANDECIDOS' (raised) according
to the customs of our forefathers on Rhodes (or wherever) and yet have adjusted into the folds of the 'New World'.
Our overall heritage is so rich and that delights me! The word “rich” is defined in the dictionary as “abundant,
abounding, wealthy, bountiful, full, vivid, very fragrant, amusing, full of choice ingredients, colorful”. Don't you
agree? Yes, our Sephardic heritage is truly rich!
“Rich” (also meaning monetary wealth) triggered another flash from my memory computer:
AVRAS DE SAVER KE AVIA UNA TURKINA EN LA CASA DE KLINE-GALLAND. EYA LE PARESIO KE
ESTAVA PARA MUREER. YAMO A SUS IJOS PARA DARLES TODO DE SUS JOYAS, ANIYOS,
KUYAREES, UREJALES Y TODO LO BUENO. PASO UNAS CUANTAS SEMANAS Y SE IZO BUENA LA
MUJER. EMPESO UNOS YOROS, "NO ME DESHI NI UN PEDASO DE ORO!" UN JOYERO DE BUEN
CORASON LE VENDIO UN CORDON DE ORO MUY BARATO. LE VINO UNA ALEGRIA A LA VIEJA. NO
ERA KE KERIA MUSTRAR HADRAS CON EL CORDON. ES KE EL ORO LE DAVA SEGURIDAD. (A true
story).
Loose Translation: Once upon a time there was a Sephardic woman at the Kline Galland home who was on her death
bed. She summoned her children and divided her jewelry among them. Lo and behold, she recovered and regained
her health. "Oh," she cried as she looked at herself in the mirror, "I didn't leave myself a piece of gold." A kind
jeweler sold her a gold chain below cost. The woman was elated. She had no desire to flaunt her gold chain. But
wearing it gave her a feeling of security. (The story is true). This is the beauty and mystery of our culture.
******************************************************************************
Thoughts for the month:
EN TIEMPO DE AMBRERA, NO AY MAL PAN.
Meaning: In time of famine, there is no bad bread (or…all foods are delicious).
EL LAVORAR EN LA MANSEVEZ, DE REPOZO A LA VEJEZ.
Meaning: When you work in your youth, you'll be content in your old age (with assistance from social security).
QUEN TIENE PARED DE VIDRO QUE NO ECHA PIEDRA A SU VIZINO.
One who has walls of glass should not throw stones at his neighbor.
BAVAJADAS FOR PURIM 2010
What do you know about the Alliance Israelite Universelle? Here is what Wikipedia tells us about this important
organization that has fostered and supported Jewish life over the decades:
Alliance Israélite Universelle (Hebrew: כל ישראל חברים ) is a Paris-based international Jewish organization founded in
1860 by the French statesman Adolphe Crémieux to safeguard the human rights of Jews around the world. The
organization promotes the ideals of Jewish self-defense and self-sufficiency through education and professional
development. The motto of the organization is the Jewish rabbinic injunction Kol yisrael arevim zeh bazeh,
translated into French as Tous les israelietes sont solidaires les un des autres ("All Jews bear responsibility for one
another").
In 1860, Alliance Israelite Universelle embarked on a "mission civilisatrice" to advance the Jews of the Middle East
through French education and culture. It opened its first school in Tetouan, Morocco in 1862. In 1870, Charles
Netter, a founding member of Alliance Israelite Universelle, received a tract of land from the Ottoman Empire as a
gift and opened the Mikveh Israel agricultural school, the first of a network of Jewish schools in Palestine before the
establishment of the State of Israel.
By 1900, Alliance Israelite Universelle was operating 100 schools with a combined student population of 26,000. Its
greatest efforts were concentrated in Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey.
How did the Alliance touch the lives of our family members from Rhodes? This excerpt from a 1985 Bavajadas
article gives us a hint:
Imagine yourself in Rhodes during the early 20th century, sitting in a small classroom that is subsidized by the
Alliance Israelite Universelle. The teacher's voice rings out, "Mademoiselle Rachel Benveniste (my mother), don't
forget us when you go to America!" "Oui, Madame Graziani, I will never forget you all," answered my mother as a
young student. What brings this story to mind? The last issue of the Clarion featured an article, 'Search for Alliance
Alumni'. A directory is being compiled to gather the names of former students and teachers of the Alliance Israelite
Universelle network of Jewish school experience. This organization has subsidized tuition for more than 125 years.
It financially assisted my grandparents with the tuition for their nine children. My grandmother, Ermana Lunar
Benveniste, worked outside her home, enabling her to afford uniforms, shoes and school supplies for her children.
The names of some of the teachers in Rhodes were Rica Peha Israel (Jeff Israel's mother), Victoria Taranto Peha (Joe
Peha's mother) and Mathilda Taranto Behar, of blessed memory. Do you know any others?
A quote from the Alliance Review states, "Dr. Irving Benveniste, a past honoree, received a plaque containing a
world clock in recognition of his many travels around the world. No expression of praise can compare with his
untiring efforts and the dedication he has contributed to the Alliance since its establishment." Dr. Benveniste has
nurtured the California chapter from a loosely-knit group of supporters into a very active chapter in the United
States. He served as president from 1980-1987. My Uncle Irving recalls with a chuckle this experience at the age of
ten from his childhood in Rhodes. With pencil and paper in hand, he scribbled the names of his young friends who
gave orders for gold that supposedly gathered in the streets of America. A set of goldware for one, a solid gold ball
for another. "I gathered a long list of names", he recalled. And so the stories went.
I remember the delightful stories of Mr. Henry Benezra and Mr. Jack Azose (of blessed memory) that added more
spice and substance to their educational experience at the Alliance. Not long ago, Seniora Alhadeff Katz (of blessed
memory) approached one of her teachers from Rhodes living in Seattle, saying, "YA SAVEES, YO NO ME
ESPANTO DE TI AGORA!" (You know, I'm not afraid of you now!) As you can see, the Alliance played an
important role in the lives of our SEPHARDIC Jewish families and their descendents.
*******************************************
Check out these magic words:
LA FULANA with a CASHA of SHIFTELEES in one hand and a SAKSEE DE ROSAS with PARAS in the other
hand. What a KUJA MENTIROSA, TEMBELA and HARAGANA. She's trying to bribe me, the LONSA. It's
YEESURIN EN VIDA.
FULANA Person
MENTIROSA Liar
CASHA Box
TEMBELA Lazy
SHIFTELEES Peaches
HARAGANA Lazy
SAKSEE Planter, Vase
LONSA Dumb one
PARAS Money
KUJA Big
YEESURIN EN VIDA Misery in life
Bavajadas de Benadam Thoughts for the Month:
VIJITA SIN SOL NO ES DE CORASON.
A visit without (sunshine) pleasantness means it doesn't come from the heart.
VAZIANDO LA MAR CON UN DEEDAL.
Attempting to empty the ocean with a thimble.
CLICK HERE FOR THE BAVAJADAS ARCHIVE
Observations on Sephardic Life
By Leni Lamarche
Contact Leni - Click Here
BAVAJADAS DE BENADAM - PURIM
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.
Are you waiting for the first blossoms of Springtime? I surely am! I’ve said good-bye to 2010 and, while
Thanksgiving and Hanukah are long gone, they reminded me of some light-hearted stories from my youth that I can
include in my BAVAJADAS DE BENADAM column for all of you.
Picture this! It's 1931 on Yesler Way at the corner of 19th. There I was, ten years old, looking into 'LA STANJA
DEL CASAP' (butcher shop). What a sight! Huge, plump, lifeless turkeys were hanging from hooks, upside down,
against the wall all in a row. I see a Sephardic housewife, clutching the neck of a turkey with its black feathers
flowing every which way. I wondered in dismay “how can she 'DESPLUMAR' (pluck) all those feathers by hand”?
That scene is forever implanted in my mind. Our Sephardic parents were from strong stock!
Would you believe that I was twenty-one years old before I even tasted turkey? Every year it was, “Mama, can we
have turkey for Thanksgiving?” The standard answer was, 'AGORA NO, AL OTRO ANYO!' (Not now, next year!)
Next year never came. Mama was such a connoisseur in her kitchen so what did she have against turkeys? I then
realized that turkeys intimidated her with their large bodies and many feathers. The same with apple pie DE
MANSANA. She did finally bake apple pie and it was truly delicious, but the pie was always square. Can you
relate?
Moving on to Hanukah….what a chore for me! Get out the HANUKIAH, purchase the candles, and from year to year
forget which side is lit first. And then I would remember how Mama managed her Hanukah preparations. First you
need nine shot glasses. Next are the MECHAS. What is a MECHA? That's a wick. Then pick a straw from a
broom and twist some cotton gently around the straw. New, fresh cotton doesn't work properly. Old, dry cotton,
preferably from an old COLCHA (quilt), does the trick. Cut a 'TENEEKEH' (tin can) into the shape of a wick
holder. Fill 3/4 of the shot glass with water. Insert the cotton 'MECHA' in the 'TENEEKEH' holder and pour oil on
the cotton and in the water. Then light with a match. Somehow, that flame lit mystically brighter. Repeat for eight
nights. After Hanukah, the 'BUYALEEK' (woodwork) might need scrubbing from the stain of the smoke residue of
the flame. Now that is work!
Do you First Generation Sephardic-Americans realize that we have been blessed with the customs, culture and
wisdom of both worlds? Think about it. Don't take it for granted. We were 'ENGRANDECIDOS' (raised) according
to the customs of our forefathers on Rhodes (or wherever) and yet have adjusted into the folds of the 'New World'.
Our overall heritage is so rich and that delights me! The word “rich” is defined in the dictionary as “abundant,
abounding, wealthy, bountiful, full, vivid, very fragrant, amusing, full of choice ingredients, colorful”. Don't you
agree? Yes, our Sephardic heritage is truly rich!
“Rich” (also meaning monetary wealth) triggered another flash from my memory computer:
AVRAS DE SAVER KE AVIA UNA TURKINA EN LA CASA DE KLINE-GALLAND. EYA LE PARESIO KE
ESTAVA PARA MUREER. YAMO A SUS IJOS PARA DARLES TODO DE SUS JOYAS, ANIYOS,
KUYAREES, UREJALES Y TODO LO BUENO. PASO UNAS CUANTAS SEMANAS Y SE IZO BUENA LA
MUJER. EMPESO UNOS YOROS, "NO ME DESHI NI UN PEDASO DE ORO!" UN JOYERO DE BUEN
CORASON LE VENDIO UN CORDON DE ORO MUY BARATO. LE VINO UNA ALEGRIA A LA VIEJA. NO
ERA KE KERIA MUSTRAR HADRAS CON EL CORDON. ES KE EL ORO LE DAVA SEGURIDAD. (A true
story).
Loose Translation: Once upon a time there was a Sephardic woman at the Kline Galland home who was on her death
bed. She summoned her children and divided her jewelry among them. Lo and behold, she recovered and regained
her health. "Oh," she cried as she looked at herself in the mirror, "I didn't leave myself a piece of gold." A kind
jeweler sold her a gold chain below cost. The woman was elated. She had no desire to flaunt her gold chain. But
wearing it gave her a feeling of security. (The story is true). This is the beauty and mystery of our culture.
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Thoughts for the month:
EN TIEMPO DE AMBRERA, NO AY MAL PAN.
Meaning: In time of famine, there is no bad bread (or…all foods are delicious).
EL LAVORAR EN LA MANSEVEZ, DE REPOZO A LA VEJEZ.
Meaning: When you work in your youth, you'll be content in your old age (with assistance from social security).
QUEN TIENE PARED DE VIDRO QUE NO ECHA PIEDRA A SU VIZINO.
One who has walls of glass should not throw stones at his neighbor.
BAVAJADAS FOR PURIM 2010
What do you know about the Alliance Israelite Universelle? Here is what Wikipedia tells us about this important
organization that has fostered and supported Jewish life over the decades:
Alliance Israélite Universelle (Hebrew: כל ישראל חברים ) is a Paris-based international Jewish organization founded in
1860 by the French statesman Adolphe Crémieux to safeguard the human rights of Jews around the world. The
organization promotes the ideals of Jewish self-defense and self-sufficiency through education and professional
development. The motto of the organization is the Jewish rabbinic injunction Kol yisrael arevim zeh bazeh,
translated into French as Tous les israelietes sont solidaires les un des autres ("All Jews bear responsibility for one
another").
In 1860, Alliance Israelite Universelle embarked on a "mission civilisatrice" to advance the Jews of the Middle East
through French education and culture. It opened its first school in Tetouan, Morocco in 1862. In 1870, Charles
Netter, a founding member of Alliance Israelite Universelle, received a tract of land from the Ottoman Empire as a
gift and opened the Mikveh Israel agricultural school, the first of a network of Jewish schools in Palestine before the
establishment of the State of Israel.
By 1900, Alliance Israelite Universelle was operating 100 schools with a combined student population of 26,000. Its
greatest efforts were concentrated in Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey.
How did the Alliance touch the lives of our family members from Rhodes? This excerpt from a 1985 Bavajadas
article gives us a hint:
Imagine yourself in Rhodes during the early 20th century, sitting in a small classroom that is subsidized by the
Alliance Israelite Universelle. The teacher's voice rings out, "Mademoiselle Rachel Benveniste (my mother), don't
forget us when you go to America!" "Oui, Madame Graziani, I will never forget you all," answered my mother as a
young student. What brings this story to mind? The last issue of the Clarion featured an article, 'Search for Alliance
Alumni'. A directory is being compiled to gather the names of former students and teachers of the Alliance Israelite
Universelle network of Jewish school experience. This organization has subsidized tuition for more than 125 years.
It financially assisted my grandparents with the tuition for their nine children. My grandmother, Ermana Lunar
Benveniste, worked outside her home, enabling her to afford uniforms, shoes and school supplies for her children.
The names of some of the teachers in Rhodes were Rica Peha Israel (Jeff Israel's mother), Victoria Taranto Peha (Joe
Peha's mother) and Mathilda Taranto Behar, of blessed memory. Do you know any others?
A quote from the Alliance Review states, "Dr. Irving Benveniste, a past honoree, received a plaque containing a
world clock in recognition of his many travels around the world. No expression of praise can compare with his
untiring efforts and the dedication he has contributed to the Alliance since its establishment." Dr. Benveniste has
nurtured the California chapter from a loosely-knit group of supporters into a very active chapter in the United
States. He served as president from 1980-1987. My Uncle Irving recalls with a chuckle this experience at the age of
ten from his childhood in Rhodes. With pencil and paper in hand, he scribbled the names of his young friends who
gave orders for gold that supposedly gathered in the streets of America. A set of goldware for one, a solid gold ball
for another. "I gathered a long list of names", he recalled. And so the stories went.
I remember the delightful stories of Mr. Henry Benezra and Mr. Jack Azose (of blessed memory) that added more
spice and substance to their educational experience at the Alliance. Not long ago, Seniora Alhadeff Katz (of blessed
memory) approached one of her teachers from Rhodes living in Seattle, saying, "YA SAVEES, YO NO ME
ESPANTO DE TI AGORA!" (You know, I'm not afraid of you now!) As you can see, the Alliance played an
important role in the lives of our SEPHARDIC Jewish families and their descendents.
*******************************************
Check out these magic words:
LA FULANA with a CASHA of SHIFTELEES in one hand and a SAKSEE DE ROSAS with PARAS in the other
hand. What a KUJA MENTIROSA, TEMBELA and HARAGANA. She's trying to bribe me, the LONSA. It's
YEESURIN EN VIDA.
FULANA Person
MENTIROSA Liar
CASHA Box
TEMBELA Lazy
SHIFTELEES Peaches
HARAGANA Lazy
SAKSEE Planter, Vase
LONSA Dumb one
PARAS Money
KUJA Big
YEESURIN EN VIDA Misery in life
Bavajadas de Benadam Thoughts for the Month:
VIJITA SIN SOL NO ES DE CORASON.
A visit without (sunshine) pleasantness means it doesn't come from the heart.
VAZIANDO LA MAR CON UN DEEDAL.
Attempting to empty the ocean with a thimble.
CLICK HERE FOR THE BAVAJADAS ARCHIVE
Observations on Sephardic Life
By Leni Lamarche
Contact Leni - Click Here
BAVAJADAS DE BENADAM - PURIM
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.