Jewish holidays are a time of celebration for all who believe in God. These holidays are celebrated with festivals that may last throughout days or longer. You will recognize the major holidays by the fact that they have Yom Tov, or “festival day” associated with them, especially the six that are biblically mandated. There are several holidays that are still observed by the Jewish community and they are the ones that virtually everyone has heard of. They are all a time when family comes together, and people savor foods and music while celebrating God.
Hanukkah
Although not written as part of the Hebrew Bible, this holiday still brings people closer together. One of the biggest stories from the books written about Hanukkah is that a one day supply of olive oil managed to burn for eight full days. It is celebrated around the time of year that some now call “Christmas”, and though it is not a huge celebration, people enjoy celebrating it. They set a specific type of candle up, the Hanukkah menorah and eat foods that have been prepared in oil. It is a reminder of the oil that burned so much longer than expected. People often play dreidel during this time and children are given money as gifts for Hanukkah gelt. The Dreidel Song and Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah are two of the most popular songs to be enjoyed during this time of the year.
Yom Kipper
The holiest day of the Jewish year is the day of Yom Kipper. It is a day that is devoted to reconciliation and atonement. During this time, the Jewish community will fast, not even allowing themselves to take a sip of water as long as they are healthy adults. Adults do not bathe, wear perfumes, or take part in a variety of other things. The sole purposed of it is to ask for atonement from God. It is only a single day holiday, but most feel that it is one of the happiest days of a year.
Fast of the Firstborn
This holiday is devoted to remembering how God killed an Egyptian firstborn and spared a Jewish firstborn. First born children attend a huge feast after they have fasted. It is a holiday which is followed by Passover, a week-long celebration during which all leavened foods are avoided. People must get rid of any breads or dough before Passover begins. Instead of eating normal bread, people will eat matzo, maror, and four cups of wine. If you live outside of Israel, you will spend a full eight days celebrating the Passover.
Other Important Holidays
As stated, there are several very important days in the Jewish calendar year. Numerous holidays are celebrated with feasts, while others are celebrated through fasting. There is the Jerusalem Day, Israel Independence Day, Memorial Day, and the Holocaust Remembrance Day. On Remembrance Day, all public entertainment areas are closed to remind us of the loss of lives during the Holocaust. Not all of these holidays have food and music, but those that do are very significant times to rejoice for all Jews.