Jewish Holy Days

Tisha B’av – Jewish

A day of mourning and repentance in remembrance of the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

Rosh Hashanah – Jewish

Jewish New Year. A time of introspection, abstinence, prayer and penitence. The story of Abraham is read, the ram’s horn is sounded, and special foods are prepared and shared.

Yom Kippur – Jewish

Jewish Day of Atonement. The holiest day of the Jewish year is observed with strict fasting and ceremonial repentance.

Sukkot – Jewish

Jewish Feast of Tabernacles which celebrates the harvest and protection of the people of Israel as they wandered in the wilderness dwelling in tents. Temporary dwelling places have leaves for a roof so the sky can be seen. In temperate climates, night is spent in the Succoth.

Shemini Atzeret – Jewish

Begins at sundown. Jewish completion of the annual cycle of reading of the Torah.

Simchat Torah – Jewish

Jewish day to celebrate the reading of the law. Synagogue services involve readings, processions and blessing of the children.

Chanukah (Hanukkah) – Jewish

Jewish festival of lights. It commemorates the Maccabean recapture and rededication of the Jerusalem Temple in 165-164 BCE. Special readings and praise songs focus on liberty and freedom. The eight-candle Menorah is lit.

Purim – Jewish

Feast of Lots; celebrates deliverance of Jews of ancient Persians from a plot to destroy them.

Pesach (Passover) – Jewish

Marks the deliverance of the Jews from slavery in Egypt; “Seder” ceremonies emphasize the concept of freedom.

Shavuot – Jewish

Festival of Weeks; celebrates harvest of first fruits and commemorates the giving of the Torah and Commandments at Mount Sinai.