|
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC: THE SCOTTISH REGISTER OF TARTANS
(http://www.tartanregister.gov.uk/index.aspx)
is the ONLY executive agency of the Scottish Government that has the legal authority to
register newly designed tartans
and serves as an archival repository of Tartans in Scotland.
Certificate of Registration for the Rabbinical
Tartan
Registration Number: 10,100
Registered on 16th November, 2009
Registered with the
Scottish Register of Tartans
The National Archives of Scotland,
H.M. General Register House,
2 Princess Street
Edinburgh, Scotland EH1 3YY
United Kingdom
RABBINICAL TARTAN INFORMATION
The Tartan you observe on the background of this website is called the "Rabbinical Tartan".
The
Rabbinical Tartan was conceived by Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo, Musical Director, Piper and Composer,
and designed by Mr. Gary James Michael Berreth, Tartan Designer and Master Kilt Maker.
The concept of designing Tartans exclusively
for clergy is not new; however, in the history of Tartan design and registration, and on the archives of the Scottish Register
of Tartans, no Tartan existed for Jewish Rabbis.
In the Month of October 2009, Mr. Berreth laboured using
as his design parameters the
Ancient
Jewish Science and Art
of numerology called "Gematria", as well as the Scientific Mathematical Fibonacci Numerical Sequence Formulas to create this very
unique and remarkable Tartan,
considered by many Tartans
connoisseurs as a "Masterpiece" and a "True Work of Art."
Each one of the colours of this intricate tartan, and the number of threads in each colour, have religious meanings based on Jewish Holy
Scriptures. The Kilt and contain many of the same colours of the garments worn by the
High Priest (Kohen Gadol in Hebrew), who presided over many of the ordinances in the Temple in Jerusalem (Yerushalayim),
Israel, on behalf of the Jewish People.
Sample of Rabbinical Tartan
Registration Number 10,100
Registered on November 16, 2009
| Conceived by Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo |
|
| Designed by Mr. Gary James Michael Berreth |
The Mystical Meanings
of the Rabbinical Tartan Colours
by Rabbi Dr. Raphael
Pazo
THE RABBINICAL TARTAN COLOURS ARE:
ROYAL BLUE - The Royal Blue is emblematic
of the Priesthood (Rabbinate), who presided over the Most Holy of Ordinances in the Temple at Jerusalem, on behalf
of the People of Israel, also known as the "Chosen People".
Although the Royal Blue is often associated
with royalty, (in Israel the tribe associated with royalty is the tribe of Judah) the Levite Priests adopted the Royal
Blue and used that colour in many of their sacred vestments.
Said colour also was employed in the coverings
of the Tabernacle (Mishkan in Hebrew) and later in the First Temple at Jerusalem (Beit HaKadosh in Hebrew), also known as
the Temple of Solomon, and the subsequent Second Temple, re- built after the Jews were released from captivity in Babylon
and destroyed in the year 70 of the Common Era (C.E.).
This colour is represented in the tartan by
bands containing the following number of threads:
·
Fifty-six
threads, a mystical Kabalistic number that represents one of the many attributes of the Supreme Being;
·
Twelve threads representing the Twelve Tribes of Israel; and
·
Eight threads representing the eight branches of the Hannukiah emblematic of renewal and re-dedication (The Hannukiah
is a type candelabra used during the Festival of Lights that last eight days commencing on the 25th day of the
Hebrew Month Kislev. Unlike the seven-branched menorah, emblematic of the seven days of the week, and its gematria alludes
to the work Zikaron - to remember, the Hannukiah has eight branches and an additional candle called the "shamash" or servant,
which is employed to light the candles in sequence, adding one candle from left to right each day of Hannukah)
The number eight also alludes to the
eight days from birth of an infant male until the Rite of B'rit Milah (circumcision), Rite of the Covenant which G-d ordered
Abraham to perform on himself (at the age of 99 years) and every male member of his household, including his children, servants
and their male children.
BLACK - The Black threads are emblematic
of the ashes left after a sacrifice was fully burned. The priests would employ the ashes for purification
and cleansing rituals, hence the two-fold purpose of the ashes is represented by two strands of Black, representing the delicate
veil separating Life from Death, and the inclinationa of humankind toward doing good or evil.
RED - The colour Red is emblematic of
the blood of the animals that were sacrificed for the atonement of the sins of humanity. The colour is represented by groups
of fourteen and six of Red threads each.
·
The number fourteen represents the internal confession made by the ritual slaughterer makes when he takes the life of
an animal to during a ritual sacrfice (korban in Hebrew) that atones for the sins of a human life, acknowledging
that the Supreme Being is the Ultimate Judge of all living creatures. The Gematria of
the number fourteen yields the word "YAD" (hand in Hebrew, from the letter Yud= 10 and the letter Dalet=4) also reminds us
of numerous mitzvot associated with the hand, such as putting on tefillin, the ritual washing of hand at the beginning
of the day and before every meal and numerous others commandments. The Torah list a total of 613 specific Commandments
that must be followed. Some of these commandment are performative while others are prohibitive of certain actions and
rituals. The 613 Commandments are further classified as Laws, Ordinances, Good Deeds and Test of Faith, the later of
these consiting in commission or ommision of actions for which there is immediately apparent reason other that to test one's
faith. In Hebrew they are called Torah (law), Mitzvot (good Deeds), Hukim (test of faith) and Mishpatim (ordinances).
These TaRyaG Mitzvot (613 commandments are represented by pomegrantes - the exhuberance of its seeds often are associated
with a large number such as 613 (TaRYaG in Hebrew).
·
The number six represents that personal confession between the human creature and the Creator, acknowleging the Perfection
of The Creator, in stark contrast with our human imperfections and shortcomings, and the many virtues one who lives a
righteous life and strives to improve oneself.
SILVER- The colour Silver is represented by eight threads, emblematic of the eight pieces that made up the vestments
of the high priest:
1. The Tzitz (HeadPlate inscribed with the
words "Holiness to the L-rd" (this is an example of howthe Jewish People avoid writing any name or word that may
constitute a violation of the Second commandment given to humanity ", to refrain from usings the name of the
Supreme and Only K-ng of the Universe in vain" . The word Tzitzit refers to a set of strings on a prayer shawl
called TALLIT where these string are connected of every corner of this square garment, and which are arranged
in a sequence of knots and ties which add to the number 613.
2. The Me'il (Robe)
3. The Kesones - Tunic made in a box-like
pattern, with fiber of Acacia wood (emblematic of the Ark of the Covenat), worn under the robe.
4. The Turban, a humble yet elaborate
way of covering one's head as a sign of reverence, aknowleging that the "Shekinah" or "Divine Presence" is within
every creature of the Creation (including ALL of us) the creatures of the Creation and whose shelter of PEACE from
the Divine is above all.
5. The bells shaped like pomegranates on the
Hem of the Robe, which noise announced the approach of the High Priest. The pomegranates allude to the 613 commandments
found in the Torah, for the exhuberance of its seeds represent a large number, it being 613.
6. The Chosen (Breastplate)
7. The Ephod (Apron) and the concealed part
that united the Ephod with the Chosen.
8. Lastly, a pair of rings which united the
two pieces of the Breastplate.
As stated above, the number eight is emblematic
of the eight branches of the Menorah (Candelabra), and the eight days before the rite of B'rit Milah (circumcision). In Kabbalah
the numeral eight is written by the using the eighth letter of the Hebrew alphabet (also known as "alephbet"), the letter CHET,
representing Life (Chai in Hebrew) .
GOLD - The High Priest's (Cohen Gadol)
Vestments had a Golden Breast Plate containing a setting of twelve stones representative of each of the Twelve Tribes
of Israel.
This Breastplate was a two-fold device united
by two rings on the bottom and two rings on the top.
This Breastplate was folded in twain (folding
in twain is considered a form of multiplication). The breastplate contained the "Urim and Tumim," which were
some of the most sacred objects worn by the High Priest (Kohen Gadol).
GOLD (Tzahav in Hebrew) is represented
by eight threads of gold in the tartan, since according to Biblical references the four rings of the Golden Breastplate
had the purpose of holding the two pieces together in order to contain the Urim and Tumim. This served a
two-fold purpose, that equaling eight (4 X 2=8); represented by the letter CHET, meaning Life (Chai). The word "Chai"
has two letters - Yud plus Chet, whose numerical value is 18. The use of the letter Chet by itself also represent Life.
A common toast in Hebrew is pronouced "L'Chayim" meaning "To Life".) The number 18 is represented in the Rabbinical
Tartan as one the most important charges given to a RABBI to impart knowledge of how to live a Righteous Life, and because
knowledge is one of the gifts from The Creator to humankind.
WHITE - The colour White is emblematic
of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, and is represented in the Tartan by twelve threads, symbolic of the purity of soul and
spirit required and demanded of the Chosen People before gaining entrance and inheriting the "Promised Land".
Remarkably, in the design of the Rabbinical
Tartan, the intersection of the vertical and horizontal White lines forms an effigy of the modern Flag of Israel, albeit without
the Star of David, ("Mogen David" in Hebrew, which means "Shield of David").
See the information below about the origin
and meaning of the Star of David.
Let us remember
that the generations of Hebrews who left Egypt and personally witnessed the Glory and Power of the Almighty such as the Ten
Plagues in Egypt, the parting of the Sea of Reeds, and the daily miracle of Divine Providence represented by the appearance
of manah (manhu in Hebrew), would not be permited to enter the "Promised Land", but rather had to perish in the wilderness
after the idolatrous event of the "Golden Calf"; only their posterity would be allowed to follow Joshua, after the death of
Moses (Moshe Rabeinu), into the land of Canaan as conquerors. They would eventually form the Kindom of Israel.
BURGUNDY - When the pure Red hue above described
intersects the Royal Blue, it creates a unique hue of Burgundy emblematic of the wine used for most ceremonies, including
the beginning of every Sabbath (Shabbat) meal, which must also contain bread in order to be considered a "full meal".
On the Sabbath (Shabbat) we pronnouce
a very special prayer called the "Kiddush” (Sanctification Prayer ) when we begin our meal by Sanctifying the "Day
of Rest" and keeping it Holy, by refraining from performing certains acts that may be considered "work". The actual
term for these acts, 39 of them to be specific, is "melakhot". The "Kiddush" also declares why
we celebrate the Sabbath (Shabbat), summarized into two (see color black) concepts:
1. "Zecher l' Ma'astsei B'reishit" - to
commemorate (in remembrance of) the Creation, in which the Creator "worked" for six days, and rested on the
seventh ( yom ha she-vi'i or Shabbat in Hebrew) day; and
2. "Zicaron litziat Mitzraim" - to remember
the exit ("Exodus" in Greek) from Egypyt. This second precept of the "Kiddush" reminds us that since the Hebrews departed
Egypt they would be free to worship without the limitation or yoke of slavery.
Both of the above concepts or precepts begin
in Hebrew with the letter ZAYIN, representing the numeral seven, which commands us "to remember": remember our origin, our
present, and also those values passed from generation to generation (l'Dor Va Dor") in order to be "masters and
crafters of our future and the future of the People of Israel (Am Yisrael).
The colour BURGUNDY can be found between the
Gold threads. It is symbolic of the preciousness of its meaning in ceremonial rites.
Burgundy appears in strands of ten, emblematic of the Ten Sefirot in the Tree of Life, according to Kabalistic teachings,
and the emblem of the name by which Jews refer to the Omnipotent. The ten Sefirot are often represented as ten orbs
superimposed over an anthopomorphic emblem that represents that we are created by the imagination of the Creator of
the Universe and in Its image.
GREEN - The colour Green, resulting
from the intersection of Gold and Royal Blue, is emblematic of Nature, which was a masterpiece of Creation fashioned
with the purpose of substaining life and the benefit of humanity. It pervades
all life within the biosphere, above, below, and beyond, created for the purpose of sustaining life, particularly human
life.
Humankind was given dominion over
the Creatures of Creation and charged with the stewardship of this delicate
world and all the lives, which is represented by the number eight, emblematic of Life (Chai).
The Star of David has
been universally adopted as the Emblem of Judaism and the Symbol of Israel. It is comprised of two intersecting equilateral
triangles forming a six-pointed star that has twelve angles of sixty degrees. Both
numerals of special significance and represented in the Rabbinical Tartan.
The
partial list of emblems of the Rabbinical Tartan above described are a miniscule representation from a multitude of symbolisms
represented of this unique Masoteric, mathematical and mystic concept, and it eventual realization when it was woven in the
year 2010 of the Common Era (the year 5770 in the Hebrew Calendar). It would take a much more profound,
elaborate and intricate disertation of its meanings and symbolisms that can be published in this simple website. The
meanings of the Rabbinical Tartan are found and verified in the Jewish Holy Scriptures: the Torah (including
the entire TANAKH), the Mishnah, the Gemarah, the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmuds, as well in Jewish Mystic writings
such Midrashim, Kabbalah, Chassidus (Tanya) and the Zohar.
Jews
are taught to make every effort to avoid pronouncing the name of the Supreme Being, preferring instead to invoke ITS Holinnes
by its attributes, in order to avoid pronouncing ITS name in vain. This is done
in allusion to the Third of the Ten Commandments found in seventh verse of the 20th
Chapter of the Book of Exodus (Shemot in Hebrew), received by Moses at Mount Sinai on the Fiftieth Day (Pentecost
in Greek; Shavuot in Hebrew) after Passover, when the People of Israel gained their freedom from bondage in Egypt, after the
Tenth Plague, which was the Death of every First-Born on the previous night (Passover), when the Angel of Death "passed-over"
any house containing the blood of a lamb on their doorposts, today represented on
Jewish households by the placement of a case called "Mezzuzah", that contains a hand-scribed lambskin
parchment inside with the 'SHEMA"; Judaism most
important prayer, beginning on the fourth verse of the sixth Chapter of the Book of Deuteronomy (Devarim in Hebrew).
The above
paragraph is replete with numeric values using Gematria to unearth its symbolisms, all of which are found on the Rabbinical
Tartan.
| "Long Live The People of Israel" |
|
| "Am Yisrael Chai" |
KING DAVID, KING SOLOMON THE WISE
AND THE RABBINICAL TARTAN
David,
King of Israel, desired to build "The House", a Temple to the Almighty; but that, in consequence of his reign,
having been one of many wars and much bloodshed that distinguished privilege was denied him.
He was not left however, without
hope, for the Omnipotent promised David that out of his loins there should come a Man who would be adequate for the performance
of so great and glorious an undertaking.
That promise was verified
in Solomon, who ascended the throne of Israel as its Third King (emblematic of the equilateral triangle), and after David
was gathered to his fathers, (Avot in Hebrew), Solomon wielded the scepter over Israel at a time when peace and tranquility
pervaded the world, and all eyes seemed directed toward Jerusalem, as if to witness the splendid display of wisdom of Solomon.
The name Solomon ("Sh'lomoh"
in Hebrew; "Suleyman" in Arabic; and "Pazo" [my own last name], in Ladino) has its origin in the Hebrew word “Shalom”,
and also in the Arabic "Salaam", meaning Peace. The name Solomon means "Peace Maker", as his reign was one without wars
and peace pervaded the world due to his keen wisdom. The numeric value of said name is prevalent in the Rabbinical Tartan.
The above paragraph
is replete with numeric values using Gematria to unearth its symbolisms, all of which are found on the Rabbinical Tartan.
Note:
The Priesthood did not constitute a tribe, and as such, did not inherit territory in the Holy Land. Instead, they rule over
the "Cities of Refuge". Not counting the Levites, there were only ten tribes.
In order to constitute
Twelve Tribes, Moses was commanded to pass Joseph's birthright and inheritance to Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and
Manasseh; who inherited their portion of the Promised Land and helped constitute the remaining two tribes, (see the colour
Black for the number two)
of the Twelve Tribes of Israel.
JEWISH COMMUNITIES
IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
How the Jewish People
Survived the Long Arm of the Inquisition
The
Jewish People is one of the ancient peoples that has endured many attempts of extermination and annihilation, yet they have
prevailed and have made impressive contributions to all humankind.
Arriving
at the Roman Province of Britannia almost a millennium ago, they settled an established their communities as "Crypto Jews",
not being able to profess their faith openly, fearing the wrath of the Romans, despotic English monarchs, or even worse, the
Inquisitors, who devoted their efforts and resources in the European mainland, and in the New World of the Americas, where
countless of Jews perished in "Auto da Fe" or "Acts of Faith."
These
where public spectacles in which someone accused of being a Jew, was made to swear a confession of being a heretic, said confession
extracted by torture instruments such as the rack, the "cat of nine tails", flagellation, and genital mutilation.
During
these "Acts of Faith", the victim of the Inquisitors was forcibly converted Christianity and burned at the stake in a most
gruesome form, while clamoring for their life.
Israel's (Jacob) Link to Scotland
(Caledonia)
ORIGINS OF TARTAN -
THE JEWISH CONNECTION
Jacob
had 12 sons, whose descendants became the tribes of Israel. Since the Levites did not form a tribe, and the second youngest
son, Joseph, who died in Egypt before the Exodus, his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh inherited their father's birthright
and two tribes were formed bearing their names.
Jacob's
second youngest son, Joseph, was sold into slavery by ten of his brothers, as a sign of jealousy because Joseph related
his dreams that were interpreted as Joseph being superior in intellect and wisdom than his brothers, who were shepherds, and
also because he received a present from his father, Jacob, of a "Coat of Many Colours".
The
Coat of Many Colours was a woolen garment adorned with vertical and horizontal lines of various thicknesses intersecting,
just like a modern tartan design.
For
more information on the theory of Hebrew and Egyptian origins of tartans, please visit: http://www.britam.org/tartan.html
(Note:
The owner of California Bagpiper are not responsible for the contents or accuracy of the information contained on above listed
website.)
THE STONE OF DESTINY
Another
connection between Jacob and Scottish history comes from the "Stone of Destiny". The Stone of Destiny presently rests
under the Throne of Scotland in Edinburgh Castle, where the next Scottish King will be crowned to reign. It
is believed that the Stone of Destiny is the very stone that Jacob used as a pillow when he dreamed of ladder that
ascended all the way to the Heavens.
According
to a Jewish Mystic Writings, the Stone of Destiny will be taken from Edinburgh to Jerusalem when the Third Temple of Jerusalem is
reconstructed on Mount Moriah, and the next King of Israel will be crowned. Many Scots believe that the next Scottish
King wil be crowned upon this stone, hence creating a new Monarchy and Kingdom.
| The Stone of Destiny |
|
| Located in Edingburg Castle in Scotland |
It is my sincere hope that the explanation of the meanings of the Rabbinical
Tartan are both educational and enlightening to the reader. It is my most sincere goal that the information herein
contained is NOT considered by the reader as an attempt to proselytize or demean any religion or sect.
Shalom
U' Berakhot (Peace and Blessings)
RABBI
DR. RAPHAEL PAZO
How to Order the Rabbinical Tartan
Any
DULY ORDAINED RABBI wishing to obtain permission to weave this tartan must contact Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo or his duly
authorised agent by placing an initial enquiry through this website.
The ONLY authorised weaver of the Rabbinical Tartan is:
D.C. Dalgliesh, Ltd.,Dunsdale Mill,
Selkirk,
TD7 5EB
Scotland,
United Kingdom
The
Rabbinical Tartan is made of 100% virgin wool from Scotland, and its colours are made with vegetable or synthetic dyes
only. No dye of animal origin is employed.
The Rabbinical Tartan is NEVER woven on Shabbat (the
Jewish Sabbath), on Jewish Holy Days or during Jewish Festivals.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO RABBIS CONSIDERING
ACQUIRING
THIS RESTRICTED TARTAN:
Any
garments (such as kilts, Piper and FlyPlaids,
and any other accessories) fashioned
in this tartan by Mr.Gary James
Michael Berreth, are hand-sewn using GOLD needles, employing traditional methods learned by Mr. Berreth in
Scotland and improved by his own procedures to stabilize the tartan pleats, gained by his many years of experience
fashioning Heirloom-Quality garments.
No
garment is ever fashioned on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath), or on Jewish Holy Days. Garments contain no Sha'anetz, the
forbidden mixture of wool and linen, as prohibited by Halakha (Jewish Law), as described in the Bible as one of the 613
Commandments.
All
garments are crafted by Mr. Berreth using the Rabbinical Tartan are made under strict Rabbinical supervision.
***News***
The following commentaries
about the Rabbinical Tartan and the first kilt crafted using said tartan were posted on a website in Scotland, "X Marks
the Scot" and published in"Scotland Today" , a major newspaper in Scotland with a readership
of over 10 million subscribers.
(http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/f99/rabbinical-tartan-here-concept-reality-64472/)
This above website
is a virtual community of Kilt Wearers, Kiltmakers and Kilt-Industry Professionals in Scotland. The following comments
were posted by members of that forum, some as questions, compliments or explanations. To see the full list, click
of the link above for an identical version of the comments herein contained. If you have any comments, we welcome your
opinion. You may send your own comment to: info@californiabagpiper.com.
Thank you!
#1
02-11-2011, 12:36 AM
Rabbi_Pazo
Location: Lodi, California,
U.S.A. (Northern California)
The Rabbinical Tartan is here: from concept to reality!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rabbinical Tartan
kilt is here!
I have just received
my newest kilt fashioned on a tartan of my own Co-Design and Ownership. It's called the "Rabbinical Tartan" and is restricted
to Ordained Rabbis only. In about 11 months , the kilt was Co-Designed and fashioned by a Master Kikltmaker and Tartan Designer,
Mr. Gary Berreth, of Portland, Oregon, U.S.A.
(see his website
at http://www.whitethistletartandesigns.com/ ) into an unique, " Heirloom-Quality garment", pleated in the traditional "military style"kilt containing
56 pleats! The pleats are arranged in such manner that it containts NO VERTICAL lines on the pleated surface;
The vertical lines are only seen when walking and the kilt "flashes" those lines. (There is a mystical significance
to this. The only one in the world!
Another kilt, made
on the sett (dress style) is being made now, due for completion by the Fall of 2011.
The concept of tartans
beings restricted to clergy of other denominations, whlie not numerous, ihas been a standard practise of many clerics,
who have design and legally registered tartans for their unique religious denomination, now archived by The Scotish Register
of Tartans (SRT). Though the SRT is a relatively young branch of the Scottish Government, it obtained and consolidated archived
tartans from other log-standing organisations in Scotland that preeded it by many, many years, resulting in an impresive archival
collection of tartans.
The Scottish Register
of Tartans contains several of said restircted clerical tartans in its archives. For those who are of the Jewish faith, there
are other unrestricted Jewish Tartans (Jewish Tartan, Am Yisrael Chai, and others) registered with the Scottish Register of
Tartans; however, but this is the only one restricted to Rabbis (Jewish clergyperson).
Mr. Gary Berreth has
designed and will soon register an entire line of unrestricted tartans with motifs
inspired by places in the "Holy Land. These tartan will be available to all, regardless of faith or religious affiliation.
This reasons for the restriction on the
RABBINICAL TARTAN were necessary in order to avoid disecration of the multiple symbols and meanings that the
Rabbinical Tartan contains. It is a tartan replete with Mystic and Kabbalistics meanings in its design. Its design employed
the Fibonacci Mathematical sequencing system, and the Ancient Art and Science of Gematria, which is the mystic interpretation
of the meanings based on the numberical values of Hebrew letters(like the Romans numbers, where I=1, V=5, X=10, etc.)
or the use of numbers (of threads) to find the same Mystic values by reverse application of letters to numbers, thus creating
words of Kabbalistic significance.
The first kilt made
using this tartan was fashioned in accordance with the Laws of Shaa'neetz, which prohibits the mixture or commingling of diferrent
types of materials (no wool and linen can be in the same garment), made by a Kilt Maker who is observant of Shabbat and Yamim
Tovim (Sabbath and Holy Days). The kiltmaker also developed an unique method of of using special stabilising materials and
procedures, capable of handling extreme pulling of the kilt without any shifting of the tartan. This process remains proprietary
and confidential. The kilting took 11 months.
The kilt was entirely
hand-made, and has 56 pleats containing over 25,000 (yes, 25 thousand!) hand-sewn stitches using gold needles, all done under
strict Rabbinical supervision, ensuring its compliance with Jewish laws regarding the crafting of garments and guarding against
the prohibition of mixture of certain textiles, such as wool and linnen. The result? A one-of-a-kind, "heirloom quality" art
masterpiece and an unique religiously-significant "treasure"!
For more information
about: The Rabbinical Tartan, please visit: http://www.californiabagpiper.com/id56.html/ (note: this is not a commercial website, nor can anyone purchase anything through it, in accordance with the rules of the
above mentioned forum).
This website contains
a detailed explanation of the Rabbinical Tartan, and its connection to Scotland.
Authorised Weaver:
D.C. Dalgliesh and Sons, Scotland, UK
Shalom and Alba Gu
Brah!
Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo
#2
Paul
Henry
02-11-2011, 01:05 AM
Location: kingston,UK
The
details are here
http://www.tartanregister.gov.uk/tar...aspx?ref=10100
56 pleats, WOW! we
definitely need to see a picture of it, normally in a hand sewn kilt you can expect 25 to 30 pleats, so 56 pleats either means
they are very narrow, or possibly doubled up, either way it likely uses a lot more fabric if it has normal sized pleats or
else the pleats are very narrow.
I'm interested in what the kilt was sewn with, I'm a kilt maker and I'm wondering what
thread was used, I'd be lost without polyester thread( it's strong and light) and I don't honestly know if it would be allowed
anyway.If I ever had a Jewish client who had some beliefs on these matters I'd love to be able to answer him.
And please
I'm sure we would all love to see some pictures when you can, please!
#3
Rabbi_Pazo
Location: California,
U.S.A.
Hello Paul Henry,
I am glad you found
this tartan and the kilt interesting enough to write some enquiries. THIS IS NO ORDINARY KILT!
The kilt has 56 pleats,
plus about 30 cm. of hidden extra tartan for future altherations, should they be required. In total, it contains 14 metres
of tartan, and while the pleats number fifty six, they ARE NOT doubled and each one can ben clearly seend when worn. Of course,
they are smaller than the usual than the other 18 kilts I have (the pleats are 1.12 cm and reach from side to side, begining
and ending on precisely under the belth buckles).
While I agree with
you that polyesther is light and strong, the kilt was sewn using 100% wool upholstery tread, since we steadfastly adhered
to the Laws of Shaa´netz (the prohibition of mixing species, fabrics on the same garments, etc.) As a kiltmaker your must
know how difficult is to sew wool using wool; so we use a colorless lotion as a lubricant, when making each pleat, which contains
over 225 stitches each. In addition to the first kilt, the kilter also made a Piper's plaid, a Flight plaid, hose flashes,
drone ribbons for my 1892 Henderson Pipes and a Boukari, a sort of headgear worn by Rabbis and Cantors, containing 18 pieces
(the number 18 means "Chay" in Hebrew, Life in English, as in the famous Jewish toast "Le Chayim" -"To Life").
The next kilt on the
sett, will also have 56 pleats and the process is going on as we speak. But since we are aproaching the Festival of Passover
soon (near Easter) and the several Jewish holy Days, follow by the "High Holidays" of Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur and the Festival
of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), during which sewing is not permitted, we are safely estimating that the new kilt will be
completed by early fall of this year.
In my humble opinion
(I am not a kiltmaker like you, but in the process of supervising he making of this and others kilts I own (all 16 of them
so far, soon will be 17), I have been "mildly educated" about your craft.
I DO have over 300
pictures of every process of the making of this kilt, and will soon post them in a website (about 50 photos), where you can
see pictures in regular and high resolution, from unfurling the tartan bolt to the final stich on the label bering my name
inside the liner (also made of wool). The only part of the process that will be
ommited from the "public access" photographic
record is the stabilising materials and procedures, since they were created by the kiltmaker and are consider "intellectual
property", hence, the internal lines is sealed and you cannot reach the waistband from inside.
Regarding the registration,
I am in agreement with you in the sense that the STR is an impresive archive,, but respectfully disagree about the rights
and powers granted to the registrants as being "limited".
Under Civi law, the
Hague (and Interpol) as well as many States in the U.S.A., consider the first person to register a Tartan as as restricted,
the "legal owner", should some unscrupulous person decide to weave the tartan. Said entities grant similar rights of a "patent
holder" (albeit without "expiration"), allowing the owner whose restricted tartan was woven without his or her express written
consent to litigate agaisnt the offender.
This, has unfortunately
has had a precedent, where a restricted tartan was registered with the SRT and someone made a reproduction in Canada and another
one in Pakistan. In said cases, the owner successfully litigated and
won their cases on such merit, and received a rather large monetary award, in addition of penalties, tribunal costs and
other compensation for "damages" granted by the tribunal.
It is my sincere hope
that I have answered your questions to your full satisfaction. I look forward to
finishing this project of posting the photos soon, and will inform you of where to visit to view them and offer your comments,
ideas and hopefully, as a professional, some constructive criticism.
Kindest regards,
Rabbi Dr. Raphael
Pazo
#4
02-11-2011, 02:33 AM
Rabbi_Pazo
Location: Lodi, California,
U.S.A. (Northern California)
Re: Kilt making - Rabbinical Tartan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I should have mentioned
that the pleats are 3 inches deep, all 56 of them. A total of 14 metres were used to make this kilt.
Cheers,
Rabbi_Pazo
__________________
#5 02-11-2011, 04:53 AM
Jordan
Location: Aberdeen/Huntly, Scotland
I
too would like to see this kilt, it sounds too good to be true.
How many yards of
cloth were used to make this thing?
Answer: 14 metres
of 16 oz. weight tartan
__________________
The hielan' man he wears the kilt, even when it's snowin';
He kens na
where the wind comes frae,
But he kens fine where its goin'.
#6 02-11-2011,
05:11 AM
Llwyd
Location: Scotland, U.K.
Goodness...over eleven yards?
It must be the only one in the world.
__________________
"Vincit Veritas!"
"Through!"
#7
02-11-2011, 05:16 AM
Spartan Tartan
Location: Born and raised outside of Flint,
MI. Now...Oklahoma City, OK U.S.A.
Sounds wonderful!
#8
02-11-2011, 07:25 AM
hootstwo
Location: Huntsville, Alabama, U.S.A.
#9
02-11-2011, 07:37 AM
Llwyd
Lol...i did not see that...did
the math...
__________________
"Vincit Veritas!"
"Through!"
#10 02-11-2011,
07:42 AM
McFarkus Join Date: May 2007
Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Posts:
4,160
Wow! 14 metres - just over 15 yards! That is some kilt!. Is there a religious reason for the 56
pleats as well. I am so impressed that kilt-making process followed the restrictions for mixing species.
ANSWER: Read introduction
__________________
Animo
non astutia
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#11
02-11-2011, 08:03 AM |
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M. A. C. Newsome
Director - Scottish Tartans
Museum USA |
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I'm wondering how large the
wearer is. 14 meters is an almost unheard of amount of material to use in a kilt -- nearly double the average!
__________________
Matthew
A. C. Newsome, GTS, FSA Scot
Director of the Scottish Tartans Museum | Governor, Scottish Tartans Authority |
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02-11-2011, 08:22 AM |
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by M.
A. C. Newsome
I'm wondering how
large the wearer is. 14 meters is an almost unheard of amount of material to use in a kilt -- nearly double the average! |
ANSWER: I am of average
size. The tartan was woven in 16 oz. weight. |
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#13
02-11-2011, 08:31 AM |
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Rabinnical tartan?
It's a gezunt, I think.
__________________
"If you look long into the abyss, the abyss looks into you." - F.N.
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#14
02-11-2011, 08:40 AM |
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NorCalPiper
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Location: Sacramento, CA
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I LOVE THIS!!! I can't wait
to see it and the pictures.....Its seems a touch of Kabala is also mixed into the construction (Kabala Kilt?). This is really
fantastic and exciting! Please hurry with the photos!! I'm located in Sacramento and would love to drive down and see it in
person!!
__________________
When
you see paintings of our ancestors in the highlands in days of yore, are they wearing solid colored hose? Honor your tradition-Wear
diced hose!
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#15
02-11-2011, 09:11 AM |
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You know, I clicked on this
link with high hopes yet low expectations, but WOW, that kilt is EXACTLY what I was hoping! Full of significance, unique in
style and construction, and a worthy piece of art right from the get go. I'm not jewish but I have nothing but respect for
a religion able to preserve and maintain such strict and ancient customs and traditions and express them in a contemporary
way. This kilt looks to be visually impressive to even a lay person ignorant of kilts, an item of fascination for those familiar
with kilts, and rich in meaning for those of jewish faith. Very difficult to pull off a work of art that hits on all those
levels. Well done!
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#16
02-11-2011, 07:27 PM |
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Answers to your questions
Thank you for all your comments.
I will attempt to answer as many questions and I can recall.
To Mr. Paul Henry, a professional kiltmaker, the
length of tartan employed is equivalent to about one-and-ahalf kilts, if you consider that all my kilts are made with
no less than 9 yards of tartan. By the way, many thanks for being so gracious and amicable during our communication
earlier today. I sincerely appreciate your comments and advise. I know that some kilts are made with as little as 4 to 6 yards;is
such case, the tartan used on my kilt would equate the length of 3 to 4 kilts. The cost is beyond extraordinary, but
the results and no less than impresively remarkable. A one-of-a kind garment!
How much Tartan? - 14 metres (Mr.
Jordan and Llywd)
To Spartan Tartan, You are too kind! I am obliged!
In what weight is the tartan
woven? 16 ounce; woven double wide
To Mr. Jordan - When I was developing the design with a professioal tartan
designer and kiltmaker, I too, shared your skepticism and have my doubts of wether the concept would ever become a reality.
It did! It is a reality! All to the credit of the kiltmaker: Mr. Gary JM Berreth of White Thistle Tarta Designs and Kiltmakers.
I guess his over 35 years of experience proved me wrong! Excellent comment! Thank you!
How many pleats? (by Mr.
McFarkus) 56
Does the number fifty six have any religious significance? (by Mr. McFarkus)Short answer -Aye,
for more please visit the website dedicated to explaing all its meanings. http://www.californiabagpiper.com/id56.html
How big is the wearer? (by Mr. Newsome, from The Scottish Tartan Authority) Waist size 38 inches, 5 feet 8
1/2 inches in stature, 191 lbs weight.
Does it have a touch of Kabbalah? (by NorCal Piper) Most certainly,
REAL Kabbalah! But not exclusively. In addition to Gematria and referencces to the Tanakh, Mishnah, Gemarah, the Babylonian
and Jerusalem Talmuds and Midrashim. Yet another excellent question!
With that much tartan and that manyy pleats,
most people who have not seen the kilts (one military, one dress) would imagine the wearer to be stout and rotund. Not so.
I am sorry if you expected someone much bigger.
How heavy is it? - from "birthday suit" to full military, including
hose broghs, hose flashes, Military Tunic, piper's plaid, belt and cross belt, sghian duhb, Full size dirk, custom-made silver
kilt pin, Commisioned Officer's red sash and head gear (feather bonnet, Glengarry, Balmoral of Pith Helmet, head gear's weight
is negligible by now) = 44 lbs. To that we add the weight of the bagpipes.
Many thanks to Jason and NorCal piper
for their comments. You both live near me and are welcome to come to visit my home and will honored to receive you as my guests
for tea and pastries, or a wee dram from my extensive collection of fine Single Malt Whiskeys. You can then see the kilt with
with your own eyes, inside and outside and the suberp workmanship.
If interested in a personal visit, please contact me
and I will give you my address, phone and directions. I promise to make it worth your time. DO brigh your bagipes, too, for
a jamming session! (if you are passig by Lodi, CA, cal me and stop by, I have 7 sets of bagpipes, always ready to play!
As
I stated before, for more information, please visit: http://www.californiabagpiper.com/id56.html
I am in the process of launching a website (cunrrently under construction) which photographically chronicles the entire
construction of this kilt; from opening the bolt, to the last steam stitch. I will be available in English, Spanish, Hebrew,
Frenh, German, Yiddish, Ladino and Italian (perhaps even Gaelic). Once the site is launched and running, it will be announed
on this forum.
It might inerests only a few of you that I have gone to piping performance, fully dressed, riding a
deluxe cruiser motorcycle. Just place the aprons over the tank and use two strong magnets. It works, evenr at 70 mph. Pictures
of this will be posted soon.
Thank you for al the questions. Any constructive criticism is welcome and greatly appreciated.
Cheers,
Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo
Rabbi_Pazo
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#17
02-15-2011, 11:39 AM |
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McClef
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Posts: 6,815
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For information to those
who wonder where the thread (posts on this subject) went.
The thread was moved to holding pending discussion upon an
embedded link. It was later determined by the moderators of this forum that such link offered additional infornation
from the kiltmaker's point of view and was not in direct competition with our paying sponsors.
It is now returned to
the open forum.
__________________
Reverend Earl Trefor the Sublunary of Kesslington under Ox, Venerable Lord Trefor the Unhyphenated
of Much Bottom, Sir Trefor the Corpulent of Leighton in the Bucket, Viscount Mcclef the Portable of Kirkby Overblow.
Cymru,
Yr Alban, Iwerddon, Cernyw a Lydaw am byth! Yng Nghiltiau Ynghyd!
(Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall and Brittany forever
- united in the Kilts!)
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#18
02-15-2011, 11:49 AM |
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McFarkus
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Join Date: May 2007
Location: Chicago, Illinois,
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Glad to see the thread back
and to have so many great questions answered. This is fascinating. I hope Rabbi Pazo will eventually post photos of the kilt.
__________________
Animo non astutia
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#19
02-15-2011, 12:43 PM |
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Wow, really interesting and
intricate design. I enjoyed reading about the concept and how it was made into a tartan. Nice job.
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#20
02-15-2011, 12:51 PM |
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by Rabbi_Pazo
...(the pleats are
1.12 cm and reach from side to side, begining and ending on precisely under the belt strap buckles).... |
Is this right? Do you mean
the strap buckles? If not, that would explain how you get so many pleats.
ANSWER: Read introduction
for more into and the inportance on the number 56. Thank You.
__________________
Kenneth
Mansfield
VITAM FORTITER AGERE
My tartan quilt: Austin, Campbell, Hamilton, MacLean, MacRae, Robertson, Sinclair (and counting) |
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#21
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02-15-2011, 02:08 PM |
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creagdhubh
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Location: Middletown, Ohio,
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by M.
A. C. Newsome
I'm wondering how
large the wearer is. 14 meters is an almost unheard of amount of material to use in a kilt -- nearly double the average! |
__________________
Caol
Anndra MacMhuirich, M.Ed.
Kyle Andrew Macpherson, M.Ed.
http://www.clan-macpherson.org
http://www.sonasmor.net
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creagdhubh |
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#22
02-15-2011, 04:53 PM |
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Rabbi_Pazo
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Location: Lodi, California,
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56 Pleats
To SlagerDummer: The number 56 has a tremendously importannt Kabbalistic significance to the Rabbinate.
Although when you make a kilt with so many pleats, the result was a remarkable peace of art and craftmanship.
The pleats
are variable (hour-glass shapped) and range from 0.9 cm to just over 1.12 cm. The depth of the pleats are almost 10 cm ( close
to 4 inches), hence the tremedously large amount of tartam employed.
Cheers,
Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo
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#23
02-15-2011, 05:04 PM |
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Location: Lodi, California,
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Size of wearer of
a kilt with 56 pleats and 14 metres of tartan
Steemed Guests: Here are
my personal dimensions, the weared of this kilt that has roused so many questions. All measures are in Standard UK units.
Height:
5 feet 8 1/2 inches
Weight: 191 lbs.
Constitution: Muscular/athletic
Waist: 38 inches ( a bit stout)
I hope
this answer you enquiry!
Cheers,
Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo
Rabbi_Pazo
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#24
02-15-2011, 05:09 PM |
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CDNSushi
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Location: Kofu, Japan ( 35°39'45.14"N
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It is my understanding, that
it is appropriate, upon hearing good news that benefits others, to recite the ha'tov ha'metiv blessing. As it's clear
that you are absolutely stoked and excited about the completion of this huge project, congratulations and Mazel Tov!
Barukh
attah Adonai eloheinu melekh ha-olam, hatov vehametiv.
(Blessed are You, L-rd G-d, King of the universe, who is
good and who does good.)
__________________
Romanes
Eunt Domus!
Comment from Rabbi Pazo:
Someone from Japan wrote a comment in Hebrew in a forum from Scotland. Amazing! Todah Rabah! (Thank you very much!) |
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#25
02-15-2011, 06:05 PM |
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by CDNSushi
It is my understanding,
that it is appropriate, upon hearing good news that benefits others, to recite the ha'tov ha'metiv blessing. As it's clear
that you are absolutely stoked and excited about the completion of this huge project, congratulations and Mazel Tov!
Barukh
attah Adonai eloheinu melekh ha-olam, hatov vehametiv.
(Blessed are You, L-rd G-d, King of the universe, who is good
and who does good.) |
AMEN!
Geoff Withnell
__________________
"My
comrades, they did never yield, for courage knows no bounds."
No longer subject to reveille US Marine.
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#26
02-15-2011, 08:18 PM |
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ThistleDown
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Location: Inverness-shire,
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Congratulations, Raphael,
but we have a saying here on this forum: it didn't happen if there are no photos to prove it. We've seen the tartan
and it's lovely, but to keep us happy and believing you, you must show us the kilt and you in it! Well, hmmm, really two pics
are required: one from the front and the second a Hamish shot of the pleats (just visit the Hamish-the-Legend section of the
forum for the finest of style examples).
We don't need to see how it was made -- almost all of us have been there
and done that inumerable times in our lives -- but we drool to see finished work, especially when it is of such a massive
undertaking as this kilt of yours.
No excuses now, just two little pics; just two,
ANSWER: Be careful what you
ask for: a site has been developed that protoghraphically chronicles the most inportant steps in building this kilt.
As for the two pictures, some of the people in this forum have already seen the kilt via SKYPE or other webcam program.
I can be reached on SKYPE at eaphael.pazo. Please add me to you list of contacts and send me an e-mail
with the date and time you wish to have a "sneak preview" before the site is launched. By the way, once the website it
is operational there will be a link posted on this website. Thank you!
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#27
02-15-2011, 10:37 PM |
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by ThistleDown
No excuses now, just
two little pics; just two |
I, too, congratulate you,
Bro.'. Raphael on your single-minded determination to bring this impressive project to fruition.
I must, however, agree
with Rex, i.e. "pictures or it didn't happen."
In
other words, please stop teasing us and post some pictures of this unique kilt!!
Cordially and Fraternally,
Brian
Killam, PM, PHP, KT and 32degree
Dear Brother Brian:
The project of making a site with pictures required a tremendous ammount of effort from those who are working on it.
Besides, PATIENCE is a virtue that you are well acquainted with.
Fraternal Regards,
Rabbi Dr. Raphael Pazo,
P.M. of Anaheim Lodge
#207, Anaheim, CA; Former Inspector of 248th Masonic District , Former Assistant Grand Lecturer and most recently,
33 Degree (Inspector
General Honorary)
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#28
02-16-2011, 11:41 AM |
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Alan H
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Sewn with gold needles? My
goodness!
__________________
Emphatically
NOT a member of the order of the dandelion.
ANSWER: the use of gold needles
has a great significance. See the description of the colour GOLD in the description.
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#29
02-16-2011, 11:55 AM |
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Location: Port Elizabeth,
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CDNSushi wrote:
Barukh
attah Adonai eloheinu melekh ha-olam, hatov vehametiv.
(Blessed are You, L-rd G-d, King of the universe, who is good
and who does good.)
To which Geoff Withnell responded: AMEN.
AMEN to that, brothers!
This is an extraordinary
garment, Rabbi, and I congratulate you on its completion.
Mazel tov!
Mike
__________________
The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life.
[Proverbs
14:27]
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