Seven Sacred Circles: The Order of Encircling from Sefer Maavar Yabbok

By Rabbi T'mimah Ickovits

Many fond memories are made by encircling in Jewish tradition - beneath a ḥuppah (wedding canopy) during wedding rituals, around a Torah with a lulav and etrog on Sukkot, dancing with a Torah on Simḥat Torah, or simply being in community while such rituals are happening. Each of these are joyful moments in Jewish life.

Seven Sacred Circles deciphers a meaningful and potent final act of honor. Seder Ha-Hakafot (the order of encircling) is taken from the first and most respected Hebrew book on end-of-life care - Sefer Maavar Yabbok - authored by Rabbi Aharon Berekhiah z"l in 1626.

This book includes two versions of Hebrew text - one adapted for use by women as well as the original text written for men. In addition, the book includes English translation and transliteration for both versions.
Seven Sacred Circles begins with step-by-step explanation of the Kabbalah behind the ritual. First, the number seven is contextualized from both secular and Jewish perspectives. Then, a light is shined on hakafot - sacred circling with intentions for each orbit. Next, the structure and movement are illuminated through a sacred poem. Finally, the powerful liturgy for seven hakafot
is presented.

The structure outlined in this book is useful every time a ritual of seven hakafot is done. The methodology is therefore applicable beyond this particular ritual.

Encircling offers a physical means of expressing emotion during what can be a difficult time.
If you are a ritualist, prayer leader, provide care for dying, officiate funerals, or will die this book is for you.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B096TL8RSB
• ISBN13: 9798715888808
• Release Date: June 2021
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 58 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.0" x 10.0"