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Sylvester: To Celebrate or Not to Celebrate?
In North America, many Jews prepare for Rosh Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish new year, by making to-do lists: acquiring seats for High Holiday services, inviting guests, purchasing a new fruit, and preparing chicken soup just like Bubbe used to make.
At New Year's, We Can Revisit Rosh HaShanah Goals... and Try Again
On Rosh HaShanah, Jews traditionally throw pieces of bread into the water as a symbolic gesture of casting away our sins. The first of January can be a time to see which sins have have stayed away and which returned from their watery grave.
Hanukkah Challah: How Baking Together Teaches Jewish Values and Life Skills
Challah has been a staple of our Friday night dinner table for years, and even more so during the pandemic. The rhythm of kneading dough every Friday helps us remember – Shabbat is coming, Shabbat is coming, Shabbat is coming.
Silver Oil-Burning Menorah
We inherited this 13" x 13" silver oil-burning menorah from my husband's grandfather, a rabbi who emigrated from Eastern Europe. We think he may have acquired it either in Vienna or Budapest, where he spent some time before coming to America.
Polish Brass Menorah
Dear Jonathan, I got this menorah from my grandfather, who got it from his uncle, who brought it to this country before 1900. I would appreciate any information about it and an approximate value.
Silver Seder Plate
Dear Jonathan, My father bought this silver seder plate about 35-40 years ago. The dealer told him it was from Pesaro, Italy and crafted of silver in 1614. It appears to be worn from use. Is it authentic? Sharon Rothmel, United Hebrew Congregation, St.
Polish Menorah
Dear Jonathan: My father purchased this menorah in the mid-1940s at a Zionist Organization of America gathering in New York City. Could shed any light on its origins and/or value?
These Days of Awe
It's the children, at first, that inspire awe, the infants now walking, the toddlers talking, the grade schoolers freshly combed and pressed, the high schoolers immense, the college students all but unrecognizable in their newfound sophistication. The brief span of twelve months has metamorphosed them all.
Rosh HaShanah: History
In ancient times, there were four different New Years on the Jewish calendar. Each had a distinct significance.