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A Native American Thanksgiving Message to the World
In the Mohawk language, "Thanksgiving Address" is translated as Ohen:ton Karihwatehkwen, meaning "Words Before All Else" or "Words we say before we do anything important." It has been used for thousands of years by the Haudenosaunee (People of the Long House) as a spiritual address to the powers of the Natural World, expressing appreciation for all life forms, bringing the minds of people together as one mind, and aligning gathered minds with Nature.
Before the Wedding
Aufruf is a German word meaning "calling up" and refers to a synagogue celebration.
What You'll Need at a Jewish Wedding
Flowers? Check. Band? Check. Now learn about the chuppah, ketubah, and rings that you will need for your wedding.
How to Plan a Jewish Wedding
How to find a rabbi or cantor to perform the ceremony; getting pre-marital counseling; selecting a date.
A Brief History of Marriage
Although no wedding ceremony is described in the Torah, the institution of marriage began with Adam and Eve. The Book of Genesis portrays God as saying: "It is not good that man should be alone-I will make him a helpmate" (Genesis 2:18).
History: The Hanukkah Story
Although according to Jewish custom Hanukkah is considered a “minor” Jewish festival, today it ranks—along with Passover and Purim—as one of the most beloved Jewish holidays, full of light and joy and family celebration.
Hanukkah: Customs and Rituals
Learn about the music, rituals, and food associated with the celebration of Hanukkah.
Ner Shel Tzedakah: Candle of Righteousness
Hanukkah can be a time for us to rededicate ourselves to the Jewish value of tikkun olam, repair of the world.
Tu BiShvat: Customs and Rituals
The Jewish mystics of the 17th century, the Kabbalists, created a special ritual—modeled after the Passover seder—to celebrate God's presence in nature. Today in modern Israel, Tu BiShvat has become a national holiday, a tree planting festivaTu BiShvat is not mentioned in the Torah. Scholars believe the holiday was originally an agricultural festival, corresponding to the beginning of spring in Israel. But a critical historical event helped Tu BiShvat evolve from a simple celebration of spring to a commemoration of our connection to the land of Israel. After the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 C.E. and the exile that followed, many of the exiled Jews felt a need to bind themselves symbolically to their former homeland. Tu BiShvat served in part to fill that spiritual need. Jews used this time each year to eat a variety of fruits and nuts that could be obtained from Israel. The practice, a sort of physical association with the land, continued for many centuries.l for both Israelis and Jews throughout the world