Living the Jewish Holidays

With the aim of providing readers with an introduction to a deeper and more meaningful observation of holidays, this book analyzes the various traditions and rituals associated with the holy days of the Jewish calendar. This study argues that the purpose of Jewish traditions is not simply to relive the experiences of generations long since passed, but to truly internalize those experiences and the lessons gleaned from them. In addressing topics such as How is Hanukkah connected to the creation of the world? What was the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden? and Why is a Jewish child’s hair cut at three years of age?, this book brings centuries-old traditions to life for a new generation of readers.