Sidotullas

Sidotullas, also known as the "Star of David's Crown" or "Magen David Crown," is a unique and intricate Jewish ritual object used in certain Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities during the Passover Seder. It is a decorative, often silver, crown-like structure that is placed on top of the Seder plate or the middle matzah, known as the "Afikoman."

The Sidotullas is typically adorned with small, decorative objects or symbols that represent various elements of the Passover story and the Seder ritual. These can include miniature representations of the four species used on Sukkot, the shofar, the Torah, or other symbolic items. The crown is often topped with a small Star of David, which is where it gets its name.

The origins of the Sidotullas are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have emerged in the 16th or 17th century among Sephardic Jews in the Ottoman Empire. The exact purpose of the Sidotullas is also a matter of some debate. Some suggest it is purely decorative, while others believe it serves a functional purpose, such as holding the Afikoman in place or marking the importance of the middle matzah in the Seder ritual.

The Sidotullas is not universally used in all Jewish communities and is more commonly found in Sephardic and Mizrahi households. Its use and design can vary widely depending on regional customs and family traditions. Despite its relative obscurity, the Sidotullas is a fascinating and beautiful example of the rich diversity of Jewish ritual objects and practices.