What is Jewish Calligraphy?
Hebrew is traditionally written in a unique script known as ktav Ashurit, which is often translated as “Assyrian script,” but can also mean “beautiful script.”
In ancient times, this was generally done with a reed upon parchment, but today is more often done with a feather quill, particularly among Ashkenazi Jews.
This script is also known as STaM, which is an acronym for sefer Torah, tefillin and mezuzah, the three sacred items that are most often written in this script. However, the script is also used for Megillah scrolls and other special documents.
A craftsman who is adept at this script is known as a “sofer STaM.”
This script is commonly seen in (at least) four variations, all of which may seem quite similar to the untrained eye: Askhenaz, Sephard, Arizal and Admor Hazaken.
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