Did you know that Rosh Hashanah was not always called Rosh “Hashanah”? Does that knowledge give you new ideas about the holiday? Looking back over history, and the traditions of Judaism, we see that the knowledge of both yield remarkable new ways to see our present. The facts – and mysticism – of our past…
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(photo of my friend, Martha S’s celebratory round challahs) The year 5784 will begin at sundown on September 15. I’m not ready. But since it will come anyway, here are some tips. S’lichot – S’lichot will be tomorrow night, September 9 at sundown. A Reflection The prayers of S’lichot Getting ready Let’s Eat! I’ve fallen…
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I love the Tenement Museum. I’ve been there several times – anytime I get to New York. I signed up for their email and have attended their online tours. Their recent email has this fascinating image of a ticket. Here is their description of this item. This High Holiday services ticket, currently on display on…
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Below are just some examples of the High Holy Day services available in the Bay Area. Check the websites of synagogues near you – or go national – there are so many free online options. Beth Am, Reform, Los Altos Beth El, Reform, Berkeley Beth Emek, Reform, Pleasanton Beth Sholom, Conservative, San Francisco B’nai Emunah,…
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First, let me address the issue of whether the High Holy Days are “early” this year. For the Gregorian calendar, yes, it is early. Note that the Gregorian calendar was put into effect for the entire Catholic world by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 with a papal bull. For the Jewish calendar, no, the dates are…
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Cantor Linda Hirschhorn emailed her congregation, Temple Beth Sholom of San Leandro, about the practice of reciting a Psalm in preparation for the High Holy Days. She said: Starting this Sunday, August 8th— which is Rosh Hodesh Elul — until the end of the high holidays, Psalm 27 is recited in the daily morning and evening…
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