Is Purim akin to a Jewish Halloween?
Though both Purim and Halloween share the custom of dressing in costume, that is about all the two holidays have in common.
Why do some people include an orange on the seder plate?
Many have incorporated new rituals as part of the Passover seder. Many seder plates include an orange, which is attributed to Susannah Heschel, professor of Jewish studies at Dartmouth College. Heschel included an orange in recognition of gay and lesbian Jews, and others who are marginalized in the Jewish community.
Why do we read this week’s Torah portion over two different weeks?
At the end of the week of Passover, a fifth question arises as we look at the Torah portion for this week: Why is this week different from all other weeks?
Beyond the revelry, is there a more serious side to observing Purim?
As joyous as the holiday is, it is also a time for serious reflection on the duties of a Jew toward their community, particularly in a post-Holocaust world.
How many days is Sukkot?
Sukkot, the Jewish festival of booths (a harvest holiday of thanksgiving), begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei.
What should I bring to a Passover seder?
Your best plan: Ask your hosts what you can bring for the seder, or for the dinner.
Is it appropriate to visit a grave on Passover?
According to Jewish custom, it is preferable to visit graves before a holiday, so that on the day of the holiday, we can focus attention on observing or celebrating.
Kombucha is made using a fermentation process. Is it kosher for Passover?
With the caveat that we are not kombucha experts, we think kombucha is okay for Passover.
What greetings are appropriate on Purim?
On Purim, we can greet one another with “Chag Purim sameach!” (Happy Purim!)