Holy Days Articles

Significance of the Four Species

Galilee of the Nations October 10, 2019

Second only to the sukkah as prominent symbols of this feast of Sukkot are the Arba'at Ha-minim, the four species, which are gathered in keeping with the commandment found in Leviticus 23:40.

Making up "the four species" are the following (Scripture references in parenthesis are from CJB version of Lev. 23:40; the Rabbinical descriptions for each of the species was retrieved from Barney Kasdan's God Appointed Times):

Yom Kippur

Shalom Adventure October 04, 2019

Yom Kippur, the Day of atonement, is the most sacred of the Jewish holidays. It is regarded as the "Sabbath of Sabbaths."

A Guide to Tashlich

Unpublished

Rabbi Richard J Israel September 27, 2019

On Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year), there is a ceremony called Tashlich. Traditionally we go to the ocean (or a stream or river), pray, and then throw bread crumbs onto the water, for the fish can symbolically eat their sins.

Dip Your Apple...

September 25, 2019

Jewish tradition requires us to dip our apple in honey on Rosh Hashana!

Celebrating Rosh Hashana with Food

Shabbat Shalom Magazine September 24, 2019

Food is an important part of the celebration of Jewish festivals. Not only does the preparation and serving of specially prepared dishes bring people together in communion, but the different types of fruits, vegetables, and meats consumed during the festivals serve as symbols. For instance, during the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, apples are dipped in honey or sugar to signify our wish for a sweet new year. In addition, dates are eaten as we petition HaShem to allow our enemies to be consumed. A delicious way to make a wish for a peaceful, prosperous, and sweet new year tangible is to try our honey-glazed, apple-date bread recipe. Served fresh from the oven, it is sure to sweeten your new year celebrations.