What is the History of Hanukkah? Alexander the Great, the Greek king who ruled over Syria, Egypt, and Palestine in the fourth century of the common era, was a friend to the Jews. But when he died in 320 B.C.E., his kingdom was divided among several generals. One of them, Seleucus, took control over Palestine … Read more
The word Sukkot is Hebrew for “booths,” and Sukkot is known as the festival of booths or, the feast of tabernacles. In biblical times, Sukkot was considered the most important festival and was simply referred to as ha-chag (the festival). Sukkot, along with Passover and Shavuot, are the three pilgrimage festivals, known as shalosh regalim, … Read more
Yom Kippur is NOT a federal holiday in USA (However in Israel it is). In some areas it is a day off, and most of Jewish schools and businesses are closed. In other areas, Yom Kippur is a normal working day. Yom Kippur a National Holiday in Israel Yom Kippur is the “Day of Atonement,” … Read more
What Does Chametz Symbolize? Chametz must be removed from all jewish homes as preparation for Passover. But exactly what is chametz? It’s anything that is made from the five major grains (barley, wheat, oats, rye, and spelt) that has not been completely baked within eighteen minutes after coming into contact with water. Further, observant Ashkenazic … Read more