Growing up, challah was a staple in my household, as it is in many Jewish homes. As a child, I would braid challah at school on Friday mornings, bake it, and enjoy it on my way home. It also graces my family’s table every Friday night and during Yom Tovs (except for Passover, of course). When it comes to toppings, anything goes: chocolate chips, everything bagel seasoning, rosemary and honey, and so much more. Challah is a creative process, but what is the deeper meaning behind making it?
For women, challah is one of the three mitzvot uniquely entrusted to them. The ritual of Hafrashat Challah (separating challah) serves as a powerful spiritual practice. According to Chabad thought, “It expresses the belief that all of our sustenance truly comes to us through G‑d’s hand. Just as we may not use the bread dough unless we have separated challah, so too, a portion of our livelihood is always reserved for the giving of charity.”
After October 7th, the mitzvah of Hafrashat Challah ignited a worldwide movement of challah-making as a form of prayer, for the release of the hostages, the safety of Israel, and the protection of IDF soldiers. During last year’s Olami challah bakes, women gathered to pray as Hafrashat Challah took place. This experience profoundly impacted my perspective, transforming challah-making from a cultural tradition into a spiritually uplifting act.
One story that resonates deeply with me is that of Meirav Berger, the mother of Agam Berger, who was kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. In response, Meirav took on several mitzvot, including keeping Shabbat, observing family purity, and performing Hafrashat Challah. Remarkably, when she received news of her daughter’s release, she was at a challah-separation ceremony. She declared that she would not break Shabbat, even for her daughter’s return. Agam was freed on a Thursday, allowing them to reunite just before Shabbat.
Another source of inspiration for my challah-making comes from social media influencer Anat Ishai, known on Instagram as @challah.mom. She shares her love for challah and her evolving relationship with Judaism, offering insights on finding meaning and purpose while also addressing antisemitism. Through her engaging content, including dance videos, she brings joy and depth to Jewish life.
I encourage people from all walks of life to experience challah-making and braiding. Even if you don’t fulfill the mitzvah of Hafrashat Challah, challah-making at UCLA provides other opportunities to perform mitzvot. UCLA’s Chabad House hosts weekly, Thursday night challah bakes, where you can brighten a friend’s week by baking them a challah. You can also participate in Challah for Hunger bakes, where proceeds support charitable causes. Even making challah for yourself is a mitzvah, as it fosters community and brings light to both yourself and those around you.
Author’s Note:
I would like to dedicate this article to my mother, who inspired my love for Judaism and created a warm, loving home for me. During COVID, she took on the mitzvah of challah baking, and the scent of her freshly baked challah greeting me on Fridays has become one of my most comforting memories. She is one of the most selfless people I know, always making an extra challah for a neighbor or a sick family friend. Thank you, Mom, for everything you do.
