Moroccan Havdalah

In this 6 and a half minute long video, Israeli singer of Jewish hymns, Moshe Louk, leads the Havdalah ceremony according to the custom of Moroccan Jewry. A unique feature in the Moroccan tradition seen in this video is the recitation of the introductory song “Avarech et Hashem” (lit. “I shall bless [the Almighty’s name]). The chanting melody reflects Arabic musical influences. During Havdalah, all sorts of fragrant herbs and spices are used in the Moroccan community, including fresh spearmint leaves, rose water, cloves and myrtle branches. Some include the recitation of the Priestly Blessing as well as the Torah portion dealing with Pinhas ben Elazar (Numbers 25:10-25:12) as both of these portions have the theme of peace.