Jewish Holidays

Rain as a Blessing

Ecological balance and our prayer for rain.

Engaging with Elul as a Family

Special activities in preparation for the High Holy Days.

What Is An Upsherin, or Halaqah?

Why some Jews ritualize their son's first haircut at age 3.

Responding to Genocide

Jewish perspectives on the responsibility to protect.

The Esther/Vashti Purim Flag

The new tradition of waving a flag when Esther and Vashti's names are mentioned celebrates the triumph of these Purim heroines.

Vashti and Esther: A Feminist Perspective

The relationship between the two Persian queens is integral to understanding the Purim story.

New Year’s in the Talmud

The rabbis of the Talmud speculated about the nature of the Roman New Year's celebration.

What Eastern European Jews Did on Christmas

A day to play games and avoid Torah study.