Mishegoss – Shofar
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Shofar Smells?
Does your shofar smell like something died in it? Give Peer Hastam’s Shofar Odor Neutralizer Spray a try. This non-toxic, biodegradable, odor neutralizer spray will eliminate unpleasant smells from your shofar, leaving it odor free — thank God!
The Yemenite Shofar
The Yemenite-style shofar is not straightened; instead, they are cut next to the hollow part of the horn, and have a short drill hole. Because of this, the sound is uniquely low and deep. Externally, the horn remains in its natural state, unornamented.
The Shofar Factory
If you’re wondering where your shofar came from, it’s likely that it came from one of the two Barsheshet-Ribak factories in Israel, famous for its fifteen generations of shofar making. For over 80 years, the same family has been handcrafting shofars here for Jews around the world. The factory produces a large variety of different shapes, sizes, and sounds to fit the different tastes and traditions. The process is rigorous. After meticulously inspecting the horn for any cracks, skilled workers will remove the bone from inside the horn, and recheck the horn again for any cracks or breaks. The horns are then sterilized, straightened and polished.
Is It Kosher?
According to the agency named OK Kosher Certification, the process of making a kosher shofar has not changed much over the years. First, the shofar needs to come from a kosher animal and cannot have any holes, cracks, or plugs. It cannot be treated with any glue or other coatings like lacquer. If it splits in half, it will no longer be kosher, but if it just splits a little and can be tied together, it may still pass. Whatever you do, give it your all and blow it upward as it was in nature. To be certain that your shofar is kosher make sure a hechsher tag is attached to it when you buy it!
