How to choose the right Shofar?

 

Summary: Jewish people across the globe are familiar with the sound of the Shofar which is a trumpet-like instrument made of ram’s horn. A Shofar is blown for religious purpose and on certain holidays. It can be a part of your collection of Judaica, offering a beautiful display.

The Shofar is a hollowed animal horn along with a drilled mouthpiece. It is considered an important instrument used in Jewish rituals. Buying a Shofar is not difficult, but obtaining what you desire needs a bit of knowledge.

Knowing your stuff

The preference of Shofar depends on the heritage you belong to. Sephardi and Ashkenazi Jews favor ram’s horn Shofars while Yemenite Shofars are made of long kudu horns. If you are seeking a Shofar for Rosh Hashanah, you must consider a kosher horn with no marks or cracks. Having a Shofar stand or bag can ensure the safety of your Shofar from possible damages.

Size is important

The length measurement of a Shofar is taken around the curves of the horn. You must consider a proper measurement, not only quantifying adjectives such as ‘small’ or ‘large’ or ‘extra-large’.

Bigger Shofars come with bigger mouthpieces, so one can blow easily and successfully. So, it is better to get a larger one, especially if you are a novice. Moreover, big Shofars have more space for the air to vibrate, enables you to play various tones.

You must know the sound you love

Unlike other traditional instruments, a Shofar does not contain any holes that can create different notes, based on the opening and closing the holes. Shofars produce one solid sound, but you can obtain different notes by changing your air pressure.

Smaller Shofars offer a higher pitch, and bigger Shofars on the other hand create deeper notes. You must consider your personal preference, the tone you love before selecting a Shofar because you can’t change it.

Conclusion

In most cases, Shofars are left natural, though it can be polished for creating an impressive sheen. You can get a Yemenite Shofar with the top is left natural and the bottom half is polished. Since Shofars are an organic product, so they can be different in coloration and markings. Make sure to consider all the small details, ensuring you get exactly what you are seeking.