Holidays

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Yom haAtzmaut Torch Lighting Ceremony Guide

Yom haAtzmaut Torch Lighting Ceremony Guide

*Original content by Momentum* Each year, noteworthy individuals are chosen to light one of twelve torches on Yom haAtzmaut, Israel

Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagadah in various languages Produced by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration        

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Packages

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Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagadah in various languages Produced by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration        

Yom HaZikaron

Yom HaZikaron

It’s not easy to move straight from Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) into the festive, joyous Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Independence Day).

Yom Ha’Atzmaut

Yom Ha’Atzmaut

After a somber day spent commemorating our fallen heroes, we move immediately into plane shows, flag-waving parades, fireworks, and country-wide celebrations

Passover

Passover

Why do we do what we do on Passover? Click the link to get the backstory on many Passover customs

Purim

Purim

Do you know: – Why we dress up on Purim? – Why it’s customary to drink wine? – Why we

Yom HaZikaron – Masa Resource Packets

Yom HaZikaron – Masa Resource Packets

Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s remembrance day, is a national day of grief and mourning. Masa invites you to tune into this

Tu B’Shvat

Tu B’Shvat

The Jewish New Year for the Trees, symbolizes the importance of the environment and the connection between the Jewish people

Hanukkah

Hanukkah

Happy Hanukkah! This year the Jewish Festival of Lights will take place on December 23-30. We will gather with family

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Content Units - Masa Original Content

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Yom HaZikaron Educational Activities (English, Hebrew, Spanish, Russian)

Yom HaZikaron Educational Activities (English, Hebrew, Spanish, Russian)

**Masa Original Content** Designed for Masa participants, this thorough Yom HaZikaron educational program (in English, Hebrew, Spanish and Russian) provides

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Informative Articles & Videos

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Yom haAtzmaut Torch Lighting Ceremony Guide

Yom haAtzmaut Torch Lighting Ceremony Guide

*Original content by Momentum* Each year, noteworthy individuals are chosen to light one of twelve torches on Yom haAtzmaut, Israel

Bedikat Chametz: Searching for Chametz in Your Home

Bedikat Chametz: Searching for Chametz in Your Home

In this instructional video (03:38), a family demonstrate how to conduct the ritual search for crumbs of forbidden food in

The Four Sons

The Four Sons

Who are the four sons, and how can we relate to them? This amusing animated video (04:07) brings the story

Biyur Chametz: Burning Chametz Before Passover

Biyur Chametz: Burning Chametz Before Passover

This video introducing the ritual burning of leftover leavened products on the eve of Passover shows a communal burning conducted

The Transformational Power of the Four Cups of Wine

The Transformational Power of the Four Cups of Wine

How do the four cups of wine represent the experience of freedom during the Passover Seder? In this video (04:22),

The 15 Steps of the Passover Seder

The 15 Steps of the Passover Seder

In this short yet informative video (03:39), Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald briefly explains each of the fifteen steps of the

The Passover Seder Plate Explained

The Passover Seder Plate Explained

This basic video (01:30) introduces the six symbolic food items traditionally laid on the seder plate during the Passover seder. 

Why Do Jews in the Diaspora Often Have Two Passover Seders?

Why Do Jews in the Diaspora Often Have Two Passover Seders?

This brief article from My Jewish Learning explains the halachic rationale for having two Passover seders outside of Israel and only one

The Tale of a Sale: The Custom of Selling Chametz Before Passover

The Tale of a Sale: The Custom of Selling Chametz Before Passover

This clear and concise video (02:46) explains the history and halachic rationale behind the custom of selling one’s chametz to a

Unique Passover Traditions from Around the World

Unique Passover Traditions from Around the World

Passover is one of the most celebrated holidays in the Jewish world, yet each community adds their own unique twist,

The Evolution of Passover Throughout History

The Evolution of Passover Throughout History

What are the roots of the Passover festival, and how has its observance changed over time? This article from My

Matzah & More: Textual Sources & Spiritual Significance

Matzah & More: Textual Sources & Spiritual Significance

What are the textual sources for our Passover traditions and rituals? In this video from Chabad.org (05:29), Dr. Michael Chighel

Passover Themes from Exodus: Recognition of God, Renewal & Empathy

Passover Themes from Exodus: Recognition of God, Renewal & Empathy

Going beyond freedom, this animated video (07:02) produced by Aleph Beta Academy reexamines the biblical text of Exodus to explore central themes

National Identity & The Stories We Tell

National Identity & The Stories We Tell

Why does Moses focus on the duty of the Jewish people to transmit the story of their exodus from Egypt

How Food is Prepared for Passover

How Food is Prepared for Passover

Passover is not only about which symbolic foods are traditionally eaten and abstained from, but also about how the food is

What is “Kosher for Passover”?

What is “Kosher for Passover”?

When it comes to what can and cannot be eaten on Passover, there are many confusing Hebrew terms and conflicting

The Symbolism Behind Matzah: Freedom Can’t Wait

The Symbolism Behind Matzah: Freedom Can’t Wait

How can the ancient traditions of Passover be applied to our modern lives? In this inspiring video (04:22), Charlie Harary from

Innovative Passover Foods that Tell the Story of the Jewish People

Innovative Passover Foods that Tell the Story of the Jewish People

Chef Ido Zarmi connects to the history of the Jewish people through food. In this video (03:28), he describes how

The Passover Seder: What to Expect

The Passover Seder: What to Expect

This introductory video (03:57) explains the basics of a traditional Passover seder, including the symbolic foods and ritual items and

Tu B’Shvat in Jewish Tradition & Ritual

Tu B’Shvat in Jewish Tradition & Ritual

From KKL-JNF,an organization dedicated to the development of the Land of Israel and the strengthening between the Jewish people and the

The Custom of Eating Fruits on Tu B’Shvat

The Custom of Eating Fruits on Tu B’Shvat

This article from My Jewish Learning explores the variety of beliefs and customs surrounding fruit celebrated by Jewish communities around the world

Hellenism in Palestine as a Cultural Force and its Influence on the Jews

Hellenism in Palestine as a Cultural Force and its Influence on the Jews

This lengthy academic article is an excerpt from Martin Hengel’s seminal work “Judaism and Hellenism: Studies in their Encounter in Palestine

The Evolution & Customs of Tu B’Shvat

The Evolution & Customs of Tu B’Shvat

This article from My Jewish Learning traces the evolution of the holiday of Tu B’Shvat, beginning with its halachic roots in

An Introduction to Tu B’Shvat, the “Birthday of the Trees”

An Introduction to Tu B’Shvat, the “Birthday of the Trees”

Produced by My Jewish Learning, this short video (01:09) introduces the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shvat, also known as the

A Tu B’Shvat Crash Course

A Tu B’Shvat Crash Course

Produced by Aleph Beta Academy, this animated video (05:13) explains the technical calculations, halachic implications and spiritual significance of the Jewish

Tu B’Shvat: Celebrating the Spiritual & the Environmental

Tu B’Shvat: Celebrating the Spiritual & the Environmental

In this informative video (03:36), Jewish naturalist, Deborah Newbrun introduces Tu B’Shvat as a Jewish holiday that celebrates our spirital

The Spiritual Message of Tu B’Shvat

The Spiritual Message of Tu B’Shvat

In this video (03:53) from the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, Yael Eckstein discusses why the Jewish New Year

Yom Hazikaron: “Families Have Been Notified”

Yom Hazikaron: “Families Have Been Notified”

Produced by Substantial Truth FilmMakers in honor of Yom Hazikaron, this sobering video (03:46) is a cinematic illustration of an IDF casualty

When the Siren Sounds on Mount Herzl

When the Siren Sounds on Mount Herzl

This blog post describes the unique experience of commemorating Yom Hazikaron at the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem. Shira Pasternak

Michael Levin: Fallen Soldier of Israel

Michael Levin: Fallen Soldier of Israel

This video (06:23) tells the inspiring and tragic story of Michael Levin, an American lone soldier who fell in the

That Moment When Mourning Becomes Celebration

That Moment When Mourning Becomes Celebration

In this touching blog post, Rabbi Ari Abramowitz describes the powerful transition between Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut, explaining that

With All Your Soul: Roi Klein’s Extraordinary Act of Self Sacrifice

With All Your Soul: Roi Klein’s Extraordinary Act of Self Sacrifice

In Hebrew with English subtitles, this moving video (03:30) tells the extraordinary story of Roi Klein, an Israeli soldier and

The Last Words of Fallen Soldiers

The Last Words of Fallen Soldiers

Produced by the IDF in honor of Yom Hazikaron in 2016, this heartbreaking video (01:03) reveals the last words of

IDF Remembers Fallen Soldier Dan Talasnikov

IDF Remembers Fallen Soldier Dan Talasnikov

Produced by the IDF in 2012 in honor of Yom Hazikaron, this video (05:08) tells the tragic story of Dan

68 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Israel

68 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Israel

Produced by the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs in celebration of Israel’s 68th birthday in 2016, this entertaining and informative

Yom Ha’atzmaut Torch Lighters 2019

Yom Ha’atzmaut Torch Lighters 2019

This post introduces the individuals that will be honored with lighting the torches at the official 2019 Torch Lighting Ceremony

Yom Hazikaron & Yom Haatzmaut: Remembering That We Are Not Truly Independent

Yom Hazikaron & Yom Haatzmaut: Remembering That We Are Not Truly Independent

In this thought-provoking video (03:00), Dr. Rachael Turkienicz reflects on the importance symbolism of commemorating Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut back-to-back,

The Nine Days of ‘We’: Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Nine Days of ‘We’: Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

In this thought-provoking video (04:42), Avram Infeld suggests a unique way of understanding the process the nation goes through between

How Israeli Veterans Transition from Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

How Israeli Veterans Transition from Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

In this i24NEWS Memorial Day special (13:24), two Israeli combat veterans – an Israeli-Arab who served in the Second Lebanon

Holocaust Survivor Remembers Fallen Survivor-Soldiers

Holocaust Survivor Remembers Fallen Survivor-Soldiers

In this moving video from Yad Vashem (02:18), Holocaust survivor Yehuda Szternfeld briefly tells his own story and introduces the initiative

The Last Descendants: The Stories of Mordechai David Gantz & Shalom Tepper

The Last Descendants: The Stories of Mordechai David Gantz & Shalom Tepper

This page on the IDF website introduces the concept of “The Last Descendants” – survivors who immigrated to Palestine alone

A Twice Bereaved Mother Discusses the Purpose of Yom Hazikaron

A Twice Bereaved Mother Discusses the Purpose of Yom Hazikaron

In this moving video (06:03), educator and inspirational speaker Miriam Peretz tells the story of how she continued to live

The Story of Esther Dreisinger Koifman (1923-1948)

The Story of Esther Dreisinger Koifman (1923-1948)

This page tells the story of Esther Dreisinger Koifman (1923-1948), a Polish Holocaust survivor who lost who entire family in

The Significance of the Fast of Esther

The Significance of the Fast of Esther

Produced by Aleph Beta Academy, this video (09:17) explores the historical and spiritual significance behind Taanit Esther, the day-long fast

A Sassy Retelling of the Purim Story

A Sassy Retelling of the Purim Story

This amusing animated video (04:08) presents a modern retelling of the Purim story from Megillat Esther. Useful for people of all ages and

Matanot L’Evyonim: Gifts to the Poor

Matanot L’Evyonim: Gifts to the Poor

From the Zdaka Center in Israel, this thorough article introduces the commandment to give gifts to the poor on Purim,

God is in Control: The Spiritual Message of the Purim Story

God is in Control: The Spiritual Message of the Purim Story

From Aish.com, this animated video (04:46) retells the story of Purim as told in Megillat Esther, focusing on how the

Why Do Jews Wear Costumes on Purim?

Why Do Jews Wear Costumes on Purim?

Produced by My Jewish Learning, this introductory video (01:32) provides several historical, spiritual and practical explanations for the custom of

Drop Your Mask: Why We Dress Up on Purim

Drop Your Mask: Why We Dress Up on Purim

Produced by Aish.com, this insightful video (02:29) features Rabbi Yaakov Cohen reveals the deep psychological and spiritual wisdom behind the

Why Do Jews Eat Hamantaschen on Purim?

Why Do Jews Eat Hamantaschen on Purim?

Produced by The Nosher, a Jewish food blog, this video (01:11) explains the history behind the Ashkenazi custom to eat hamantaschen

The History & Spiritual Significance of Hamantaschen

The History & Spiritual Significance of Hamantaschen

This short video (01:12) from Chabad.org suggestions several different reasons why we eat Hamantaschen on Purim. This thorough article by Rabbi Yehuda

The Festive Purim Meal: Seudat Purim

The Festive Purim Meal: Seudat Purim

From the website of the Orthodox Union, this thorough article outlines the spiritual significance and halachic guidelines of the Seudat

Mishloach Manot: Now & Then

Mishloach Manot: Now & Then

This video (01:12) from the Central Synagogue Reform Congregation introduces the custom of Mishloach Manot – delivering gifts of food to

What Is Purim?

What Is Purim?

This amusing and informative video (05:04) presents an excellent overview of the origins, significance and customs of Purim, including an animated summary

The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)

The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)

This post provides excellent educational resources about the 35 soldiers who were killed during the War of Independence trying to

Clash of Nationalisms: Arabs in Zionist Thought

Clash of Nationalisms: Arabs in Zionist Thought

From My Jewish Learning, this article by Scott Copeland, head of education for Onward Israel, explores the conflict between Jewish and Arab nationalist

Looking into the Flame: A Hanukkah Light Meditation

Looking into the Flame: A Hanukkah Light Meditation

Written by Rabbi DovBer Pinson, an expert on Kabbalah, Jewish Philosophy and Rosh Yeshiva at the IYYUN Center for Jewish

Publicizing the Miracle of Hanukkah

Publicizing the Miracle of Hanukkah

Written by Rabbi Iscah Waldman, this article explores how the modern phenomenon of public displays of Hanukkah menorahs in store

Zionism in Animation: How the State Of Israel was Born

Zionism in Animation: How the State Of Israel was Born

Part of The Jewish Story In Animation, a Zionist educational initiative, this animated video (03:05) tells the story of the

The Pardes Hannukah Companion: 8 Articles

The Pardes Hannukah Companion: 8 Articles

Created by educators at The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies, this 8-page long booklet provides one article for each night of

What is Hannukah Gelt?

What is Hannukah Gelt?

In this introductory article, Ariela Pelaia explains the origins of  the custom of giving “gelt” to children on Hannukah, including the

The Deeper Meaning of the Word ‘Hanukkah’

The Deeper Meaning of the Word ‘Hanukkah’

Written by Aviya Kushner, the language columnist at The Forward, this article explores the deeper meaning of the Hebrew word

A Kabbalastic Infographic: 8 Hannukah Insights

A Kabbalastic Infographic: 8 Hannukah Insights

Created by the Bnei Baruch Kabbalah Education & Research Institute, this infographic presents Jewish mystical insights and symbolism behind eight Hannukah-related

Who Are the Maccabees: Heroes or Fanatics?

Who Are the Maccabees: Heroes or Fanatics?

Along with a minute long video introducing the Maccabees role in the Hanukkah story, this thought-provoking article by Michele Alperin

What You Need to Know About the Hannukah Story

What You Need to Know About the Hannukah Story

Reprinted from Celebrate! The Complete Jewish Holiday Handbook by Lesli Koppelman Ross, this article summarizes the story of Hannukah from the

Humanistic Judaism’s Approach to Hannukah

Humanistic Judaism’s Approach to Hannukah

This introductory article from the Society for Humanistic Judaism explains the themes and customs of Hannukah according to the Humanistic community. The community focuses on

8 Insights for 8 Nights of Hannukah

8 Insights for 8 Nights of Hannukah

Created by NCSY, an Orthodox organization dedicated to inspiring Jewish youth to engage with Judaism, this one-page document presents one Hannukah-themed thought

Kabbalistic Numerology and the Miracle of Chanukah

Kabbalistic Numerology and the Miracle of Chanukah

Written by Orthodox psychotherapist, Karen Wolfers-Rapaport, this profound article from Chabad.org explores the connection between Hannukah – the eight day festival of

Hannukah 101

Hannukah 101

This introductory article briefly explains the history, customs and significance of Hannukah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. A helpful resource for anyone interested

Chag HaBanot: The Festival of the Daughters – Introduction & Rituals

Chag HaBanot: The Festival of the Daughters – Introduction & Rituals

Written by Rabbi Jill Hammer, this post presents an introduction to Chag HaBanot, a women’s festival traditionally celebrated during Hannukah by some Sephardic

Hannukah in 60 Seconds

Hannukah in 60 Seconds

This minute long introductory video presents a brief overview of the origins, significance and customs of Hannukah. This video is provided by Parsha in 60

Why do Jews Play Dreidel on Hannukah?

Why do Jews Play Dreidel on Hannukah?

This short video (0:40) from My Jewish Learning, briefly explains the historical reasons behind the custom of playing dreidel – a gambling

Hannukah FAQ

Hannukah FAQ

This thorough article answers all of your questions about the Jewish Festival of Lights, including instructions for how to spell and

The History & Meaning of the Menorah

The History & Meaning of the Menorah

This informative video (02:24) explores the significance of the menorah as the eternal symbol of the Jewish nation throughout history, from the

8 Videos for 8 Days of Happiness

8 Videos for 8 Days of Happiness

This post contains a series of eight thoughtful, one-minute-long, animated videos exploring various Hannukah themes from a psychological, relationship-focused perspective. The first video, featured

Miracles: Now, Then & Every Day

Miracles: Now, Then & Every Day

Produced by Jewish Educational Media, the multimedia archive of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, this inspiring video (07:43) encourages viewers to

How Holidays of Light Make Hanukkah Brighter: In Talmudic & Modern Times

How Holidays of Light Make Hanukkah Brighter: In Talmudic & Modern Times

In this interesting video (03:36), Rabbi Judith Hauptman explores the Talmudic references to Hannukah, suggesting that the significance of the

Hannukah: Tap into the Light

Hannukah: Tap into the Light

In this inspiring video (02:20), Rabbi Yitzchak Botton explains that Hannukah is not the commemoration of a one-time historical event,

Judith & The Hannukah Story

Judith & The Hannukah Story

Produced by the Jewish Women’s Archive, this informative video (02:24) emphasizes the feminist Jewish history angle of the Hannukah story, briefly

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks: 8 Thoughts for 8 Nights

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks: 8 Thoughts for 8 Nights

This post contains a series of eight 2-3 minute-long, thought-provoking videos in which Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, the previous Chief Rabbi of

Carrying the Torch: The Menorah and the Eternal Jewish People

Carrying the Torch: The Menorah and the Eternal Jewish People

In this moving video (03:53), Rabbi Yaakov Cohen attributes the miraculous spiritual and physical survival of the Jewish people throughout history to

Menorah vs. Channukiah

Menorah vs. Channukiah

In this short video (01:15), Joshua Mallett clearly explains the difference between the 7-branched menorah lit in the ancient Temple

An Animated Story of Hannukah for Kids

An Animated Story of Hannukah for Kids

Produced by Speakaboos, an educational company promoting children’s literacy, this short animated video (02:15) presents the Hannukah story and the historical

Mayim Bialik: A True/False Quiz Introducing Hannukah

Mayim Bialik: A True/False Quiz Introducing Hannukah

In this humorous, informal video (05:58), actress and neuroscientist Mayim Bialik presents a short true or false quiz to clear up some misconceptions about

Ben Shapiro: The Story & Takeaways of Hannukah

Ben Shapiro: The Story & Takeaways of Hannukah

In this short informative video (01:55), Ben Shapiro provides a quick historical overview of the history of Hannukah, emphasizing the

The Historical Origins and Customs of Hannukah

The Historical Origins and Customs of Hannukah

Produced by the American TV Network, History, this introductory video (03:50) presents the historical origins and modern customs of Hannukah, the Jewish festival

What is Hannukah?

What is Hannukah?

This short animated video (03:51) presents an excellent overview of the origins, significance and customs of Hannukah, the Jewish festival of lights. Useful

Hoshanot: When, How, When

Hoshanot: When, How, When

This thorough article from Chabad.org explains the origins and meaning of the Hoshanot prayers recited on Sukkot, as well as

Hoshanot: Text & Explanation

Hoshanot: Text & Explanation

This excerpt from the Conservative Or Hadash Commentary on Siddur Sim Shalom provides the Hebrew and English text of the Hoshanot prayers recited on

Prayers for Rain & Dew

Prayers for Rain & Dew

This excerpt from the Conservative Or Hadash Commentary on Siddur Sim Shalom provides the Hebrew and English text of the prayer for rain recited

The Prayer for Rain on Shemini Atzeret

The Prayer for Rain on Shemini Atzeret

In this excerpt from “Every Person’s Guide to Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah,” Rabbi Ronald H. Isaacs introduces the Jewish

Sukkot: Ushpizin (Guests) & Jewish Hospitality

Sukkot: Ushpizin (Guests) & Jewish Hospitality

This amusing and informative video (05:22) by Rabbi John Carrier of Reform Burbank Temple Emanuel introduces the origins and significance of the Jewish

An Introduction to Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah

An Introduction to Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah

This informative video (04:39) provides a basic introduction to the Jewish holidays of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which immediately follow

What is Hoshanah Rabbah?

What is Hoshanah Rabbah?

This informative article provides a basic introduction to the origins and rituals of Hoshanah Rabbah, the seventh day of Sukkot,

Why Jews Celebrate Sukkot in 60 Seconds

Why Jews Celebrate Sukkot in 60 Seconds

In this minute long video, Israel advocate Hananya Naftali briefly introduces the biblical origins of the Festival of Sukkot, explaining

Mayim Bialik: Building My Sukkah

Mayim Bialik: Building My Sukkah

In this thought provoking video (02:26), actress and neuroscientist Mayim Bialik shares some of the deep symbolic significance to the rituals and laws of

A Thorough Introduction to Sukkot

A Thorough Introduction to Sukkot

This thorough article by Tracey Rich from Judaism 101 provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, customs and spiritual significance of the biblical festival of

The Connection Between the Sukkah and Joy

The Connection Between the Sukkah and Joy

In this animated video (02:18), Rabbi Mark Fishman explores the connection between dwelling in a Sukkah and experiencing happiness on

Sukkot for Kids

Sukkot for Kids

In this sweet, interactive video (4:06), Rabbi David and Kerry Bar-Cohn introduce young children to the rituals and significance of Sukkot, including

How & Why to Shake the Lulav & Etrog

How & Why to Shake the Lulav & Etrog

In this clear, instructional video, Jesse M. Olitzky from the Conservative Congregation Beth El in New Jersey introduces each of the

The Kabbalistic Secret of Sukkot

The Kabbalistic Secret of Sukkot

In this short yet profound video (03:44), Rabbi Jonathan Taub reveals the Kabbalistic secret of Sukkot as a holiday where

Sukkot in 60 Seconds

Sukkot in 60 Seconds

This minute long animated video presents a brief overview of the origins, significance and customs of Sukkot. Useful for people of all ages, with

Sukkot: A Celebration for Every Nation

Sukkot: A Celebration for Every Nation

This informative video (03:26) presents how the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, is celebrated in Jerusalem, with

Text & Exploration of the Al Chet Section of Vidui (Confessions)

Text & Exploration of the Al Chet Section of Vidui (Confessions)

This article by Rabbi Shraga Simmons explores each line of part of the “Al Chet” portion of the Vidui confession, recited during each

Sukkot 101: The LEGO Movie

Sukkot 101: The LEGO Movie

This 4-minute long LEGO stop motion animation video presents an excellent introduction to the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, including the biblical origins

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

This link provides introductory information to the “Ashamnu” part of the Vidui (Confession) liturgy, including the Hebrew, English and transliterated

What To Do the Day Before Yom Kippur

What To Do the Day Before Yom Kippur

This introductory article from Chabad.org provides a brief overview of the mitzvot and rituals performed on the day before Yom Kippur, according to Orthodox

Yom Kippur Cheat Sheet: Readings to Help You Focus

Yom Kippur Cheat Sheet: Readings to Help You Focus

This 4-page long PDF document is full of profound poems, prayers, quotes and readings that will help you focus on

How to Observe Yom Kippur 2018

How to Observe Yom Kippur 2018

This introductory article from Chabad.org explains the history, customs and deep spiritual significance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. The article

The History of Yom Kippur

The History of Yom Kippur

This article from ReformJudaism.org presents the historical development of the focus and rituals of Yom Kippur, from its biblical origins

Humanistic Judaism’s Approach to Yom Kippur

Humanistic Judaism’s Approach to Yom Kippur

This introductory article from the Society for Humanistic Judaism explains the themes and customs of Yom Kippur according to the

Yom Kippur: How God Helps Us Come Clean

Yom Kippur: How God Helps Us Come Clean

In this short yet profound video, Charlie Harary compares the relationship between a child and parent to that of man and God, claiming

Yom Kippur for Kids

Yom Kippur for Kids

In this sweet, interactive video, Rabbi David and Kerry Bar-Cohn introduce young children to the rituals and significance of Yom Kippur, including

Yom Kippur FAQ: All About the Day of Atonement

Yom Kippur FAQ: All About the Day of Atonement

This thorough article answers all of your questions about Yom Kippur, including a basic introduction to the Jewish Day of Atonement,

A Guide to Yom Kippur Prayers

A Guide to Yom Kippur Prayers

This informative article by Conservative Rabbi Daniel Kohn provides a guide for Yom Kippur prayer services, including the origins, content, and rituals of each of

Jewish Holidays Explained: What is Yom Kippur?

Jewish Holidays Explained: What is Yom Kippur?

This short video provides a brief introduction to the process of teshuvah (repentance), culminating in the holiday of Yom Kippur. Rabbi John Carrier of

The Secret to a Guilt-Free Yom Kippur

The Secret to a Guilt-Free Yom Kippur

In this short but empowering video, social worker, Chayi Hanfling, encourages viewers to understand the crucial difference between negative guilt

Yom Kippur: Everyone Falls

Yom Kippur: Everyone Falls

In this empowering video (04:37), Charlie Harary reminds us that failure is an inevitable part of the human experience in every aspect of

Yom Kippur in 60 Seconds

Yom Kippur in 60 Seconds

This minute long animated video presents a brief overview of the origins, significance and customs of Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the

The Crash Course on Yom Kippur

The Crash Course on Yom Kippur

In this 6-minute long video, Orthodox Rabbi, Avraham Goldhar, presents an excellent overview of the significance and customs of Yom Kippur, “a

Yom Kippur: Becoming the Artists of Our Own Lives

Yom Kippur: Becoming the Artists of Our Own Lives

In this creative 5 minute long video, Rabbi Irwin Kula describes the significance of Yom Kippur using an analogy that our

Yom Kippur: The Three Levels of Forgiveness

Yom Kippur: The Three Levels of Forgiveness

In this 3.5 minute long video from Aish.com, Orthodox Rabbi, Etiel Goldwicht explores how to truly forgive someone who has hurt you

What is Yom Kippur?

What is Yom Kippur?

This 4-minute long animated video presents an excellent overview of the origins, significance and customs of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on

Maimonides’ 4 Steps to Teshuvah

Maimonides’ 4 Steps to Teshuvah

This short video outlines the four steps to teshuvah (repentance), according to Maimonides: regret our actions, stop doing them, confess

Rosh Hashanah Infographic

Rosh Hashanah Infographic

This infographic from Aish.com lays out the various traditions and rituals of the Jewish New Year in a concise and

Rabbi Saadia Gaon’s 10 Reasons for Sounding the Shofar

Rabbi Saadia Gaon’s 10 Reasons for Sounding the Shofar

This post summarizes ten different symbolic explanations as to why we blow the shofar on Rosh Hashana, according to Rabbi

Selichot: Prayers of Repentance

Selichot: Prayers of Repentance

This article by Rabbi Dr. Reuven Hammer explains the origins, significance and structure of selichot – the special prayers recited during

Tzom Gedaliah Fast Day

Tzom Gedaliah Fast Day

This article from Chabad.org explains the origins, historical background, and ritual observances of the minor fast day of Tzom Gedaliah, observed on the day after Rosh

Rosh Hashanah 101

Rosh Hashanah 101

This introductory article briefly explains the history, customs and significance of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a time of both rejoicing

A Technical Explanation of the Shofar Blasts

A Technical Explanation of the Shofar Blasts

In this highly technical video (6:38), Orthodox rabbi, author and educator, Hadar Margolin, explains why we hear 100 blasts of

Preparing for the New Year with Rabbi Sacks: A Thought Provoking Video Series

Preparing for the New Year with Rabbi Sacks: A Thought Provoking Video Series

This post contains a series of ten short, thought-provoking videos to help prepare for the new year. Recorded by  Rabbi Lord

Mayim Bialik: 4 Things Jews Do on Rosh Hashanah

Mayim Bialik: 4 Things Jews Do on Rosh Hashanah

In this short, informal video, actress and neuroscientist Mayim Bialik introduces four Rosh Hashanah customs: eating ritual foods, hearing the blowing of

Elul & Rosh Hashanah: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Elul & Rosh Hashanah: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

In this short yet profound video, Charlie Harary suggests that the month of Elul and the holiday of Rosh Hashanah provide us with

Rabbi Sacks: 3 Fundamental Questions for the High Holidays

Rabbi Sacks: 3 Fundamental Questions for the High Holidays

In this short yet inspiring video, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, the previous Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, prompts viewers to ask

Rosh Hashanah Customs

Rosh Hashanah Customs

In this clear video, aimed at both Jews and non-Jews, Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein introduces the customs and spiritual significance of

Feeling the Love in Judgement: Special for the High Holidays

Feeling the Love in Judgement: Special for the High Holidays

In this short and sweet animated video, Rabbi David Aaron shares the profound message that judgement is actually an act

Rosh Hashanah for Kids

Rosh Hashanah for Kids

In this sweet, interactive video, Rabbi David and Kerry Bar-Cohn introduce young children to the rituals and significance behind the Biblical

What is Rosh Hashanah? The Jewish New Year

What is Rosh Hashanah? The Jewish New Year

This 4-minute long animated video presents an excellent overview of the rituals, customs and significance of Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year. Useful

Tashlich: A Rosh Hashanah Tradition

Tashlich: A Rosh Hashanah Tradition

This minute-long video from MyJewishLearning provides a basic introduction to tashlich, a Rosh Hashanah ritual during which Jews symbolically cast

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

This link opens up the Winter 2018 issue of the The Jewish Educator journal, full of articles, resources, activities, and lesson

Chabad on Shavuot

Chabad on Shavuot

This introductory article from Chabad.org explains the history, customs and deep spiritual significance of Shavuot. With many internal links to relevant videos, how-to

The Omer & Shavuot: Self-Betterment and a Divine Relationship

The Omer & Shavuot: Self-Betterment and a Divine Relationship

In this short video, Rabbi Shira Stutman shares a profound explanation of Shavuot and the 49 day period of the

Shavuot in Israel: A Celebration of Torah or First Fruits?

Shavuot in Israel: A Celebration of Torah or First Fruits?

In this article, Dr. Hizky Shoham explores the multiple identities of the holiday of Shavuot, which began as an agricultural

Taking Tikkun Leil into the Modern World

Taking Tikkun Leil into the Modern World

In this article from the South African Jewish Report, Adina Roth describes how the ancient Kabbalistic practice of learning Torah all

A Detailed Overview of Shavuot

A Detailed Overview of Shavuot

This thorough article from Wikipedia provides a detailed and well-sourced overview of the Biblical origins, ancient and modern customs, and agricultural and

Shavuot 101

Shavuot 101

This introductory article briefly explains the history, customs and significance of Shavuot, a lesser known Jewish holiday that commemorates the spring harvest

Akdamut: Text & Commentary on a Liturgical Poem for Shavuot

Akdamut: Text & Commentary on a Liturgical Poem for Shavuot

This 8-page long PDF document provides the Aramaic text and English translation of Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during

Shavuot in 60 Seconds

Shavuot in 60 Seconds

This minute long animated video presents a brief overview of the origins, significance and customs of Shavuot. Useful for people of all ages, with

Why do Jews Eat Cheesecake on Shavuot?

Why do Jews Eat Cheesecake on Shavuot?

This minute-long video from the My Jewish LearningYouTube Channel offers two explanations for the popular Ashkenazi custom to eat dairy

Reenactment of the Biblical Shavuot First-Fruits & Twin Loaves Offerings

Reenactment of the Biblical Shavuot First-Fruits & Twin Loaves Offerings

This 4-minute long video presents a reenactment of the first-fruit and twin loaves offerings, as they were performed in the ancient Temple

Shavuot: The Day that Shook the World

Shavuot: The Day that Shook the World

This minute-and-a-half long video, creatively produced to resemble a movie trailer, presents the eternal influence of the revelation of the Torah

Excerpts from Theodor Herzl’s Writings

Excerpts from Theodor Herzl’s Writings

This link provides excerpts from Theodor Herzl’s writings about different topics, including the meaning and purpose of Zionism, the physical

What is Shavuot? An Introductory Video for All

What is Shavuot? An Introductory Video for All

This 4-minute long animated video presents an excellent overview of the origins, significance and customs of Shavuot, dubbed “the most important Jewish Holiday

Rav Kook on Psalm 126: We Were Like Dreamers

Rav Kook on Psalm 126: We Were Like Dreamers

This philosophical article is a translation and adaptation of a teaching from Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (Midbar Shur, pp. 226-227)

A Message from the URJ for Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

A Message from the URJ for Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

In this short video, Rabbi Rick Jacobs, the President of the Union for Reform Judaism, encourages viewers to commemorate, connect

With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants

With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants

This short video produced for Israel’s 68th birthday tells the stories of the everyday heroes that build Israel’s unique society,

The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)

The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)

This post provides resources about the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, including a short video with information and

The Impossible Transition Between Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut

The Impossible Transition Between Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut

In this 6:20 long video, Daniel Gordis describes the challenge and meaning behind the transition between the deep grief of Yom

Yom Ha’atzmaut: New Meaning to a Traditional Prayer

Yom Ha’atzmaut: New Meaning to a Traditional Prayer

In this blog post, Benjamin Dukas, a 19 year old American who spent a year studying in a Yeshivah in

An Introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and How to Celebrate

An Introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and How to Celebrate

This short article from the website of the Reform movement provides a brief introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and how it is

The Significance of Yom Ha’atzmaut and Jewish Nationalism

The Significance of Yom Ha’atzmaut and Jewish Nationalism

This lengthy article by Rabbi Mordechai Greenberg explores the significance of Yom Ha’atzmaut in the context of the controversial views

How Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Jews Mark Yom Ha’atzmaut

How Ultra-Orthodox Israeli Jews Mark Yom Ha’atzmaut

This article from the Jerusalem Post explores how Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jews in Israel mark the birth of the secular State

The Religious Status of Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Religious Status of Yom Ha’atzmaut

This article from My Jewish Learning explores the differing views at to whether there is a religious nature to Israel’s Independence Day. Noting

In Search of a Poetic Ritual for Yom HaZikaron/Ha’Atzmaut

In Search of a Poetic Ritual for Yom HaZikaron/Ha’Atzmaut

In this blog post, Rabbi Ela Merom asks complex questions about how we use communal memory as we move through

Yom Ha’atzmaut in Halakhah, Custom & Story

Yom Ha’atzmaut in Halakhah, Custom & Story

This lengthy scholarly article by Dr. Aharon Arend explores different perspectives on how Yom Ha’atzmaut should be celebrated through an

What Does Yom Ha’atzmaut Mean to You? Voices from the Streets of Jerusalem

What Does Yom Ha’atzmaut Mean to You? Voices from the Streets of Jerusalem

In this 4 minute long video, Rafi Di from HonestReporting asks locals on the streets of Jerusalem what Yom Ha’atzmaut

66 Israeli Heroes Share a Powerful Message

66 Israeli Heroes Share a Powerful Message

In this 5:42 minute long video, 66 Israeli heroes and new immigrants share powerful messages about the State of Israel,

How is Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebrated in Israel

How is Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebrated in Israel

This 3 minute long video briefly explains the history of the establishment of the State of Israel and how Yom

A Yom Ha’atzmaut Message: Israel as a Divine Miracle

A Yom Ha’atzmaut Message: Israel as a Divine Miracle

In this short video made for Yom Ha’atzmaut, Rabbi Doron Perez discusses how the establishment of the modern State of Israel

The International Bible Contest: An Israeli Yom Ha’Atzmaut Tradition

The International Bible Contest: An Israeli Yom Ha’Atzmaut Tradition

In this personal blog post, Bluma Zuckerbrot-Finkelstein describes the experience of accompanying her son to Israel to participate in the International

Searching for a Meaningful Yom Ha’Atzmaut

Searching for a Meaningful Yom Ha’Atzmaut

In this thought provoking article, Rabbi J. Rolando Matalon calls on the Jewish community in Israel and the Diaspora to reconceive Yom

Ritual Creation for Yom Ha’atzmaut: A Conservative Rabbi’s Suggested Mitzvot

Ritual Creation for Yom Ha’atzmaut: A Conservative Rabbi’s Suggested Mitzvot

In this bold article, Rabbi Vernon Kurtz suggests a number of mitzvot – religious commandments – which he claims should

Greetings from Natan Sharansky for Israel’s 64th Independence Day

Greetings from Natan Sharansky for Israel’s 64th Independence Day

In this short video, Natan Sharansky discusses the significance of Israel for the Jewish people all over the world in honor of

What is Yom Ha’atzmaut and How is it Celebrated?

What is Yom Ha’atzmaut and How is it Celebrated?

This 3 and a half minute long video provides a thorough introduction to Yom Ha’Atzmaut, focusing on the various religious and

Yom Ha’atzmaut: How the Jewish State is Celebrated in Israel & Abroad

Yom Ha’atzmaut: How the Jewish State is Celebrated in Israel & Abroad

This article from My Jewish Learning provides a thorough introduction to Yom Ha’Atzmaut, focusing on the various religious and secular customs that

Yom Ha’Atzmaut Liturgy

Yom Ha’Atzmaut Liturgy

This article presents a survey of some of the liturgical traditions that have developed to celebrate Yom Ha’Atzmaut in different

The Power of Light in Judaism

The Power of Light in Judaism

Inspired by both nature and Jewish mysticism, this short article explores the physical and spiritual power of light in Jewish tradition

The Significance of Fire in Judaism

The Significance of Fire in Judaism

This excerpt notes the universally recognized power of fire, as well as its particular significance in Jewish ritual, such as

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Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer in Honor of Yom HaZikaron

Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer in Honor of Yom HaZikaron

This post presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated text of the special Yizkor Memorial Prayer recited on Yom Hazikaron in

Printable English Megillat Esther With Commentary

Printable English Megillat Esther With Commentary

Published by the Kehot Publication society of the Chabad Lubavitch movement, this 14-page long PDF document is an English translation of

Printable Hebrew & English Megillat Esther

Printable Hebrew & English Megillat Esther

From Chabad.org, this 13-page long PDF document contains the side-by-side Hebrew and English text of Megillat Esther, the biblical scroll

Al Hanissim for Grace After Meals on Purim

Al Hanissim for Grace After Meals on Purim

This post presents a cantorial rendition of the “Al HaNissim” prayer added to the Grace After Meals on Purim, along

Hasidic Kavvanah (Intention) for Lighting the Hannukah Candles

Hasidic Kavvanah (Intention) for Lighting the Hannukah Candles

This link opens up the Hebrew and English text of a Hasidic prayer that can be recited prior to the

A Reform Prayer for Kislev & Hannukah

A Reform Prayer for Kislev & Hannukah

This link opens up the Hebrew, English and transliterated text of a prayer that can be read from the beginning of the

Humanistic Hannukah Lighting Blessings & Ceremonies

Humanistic Hannukah Lighting Blessings & Ceremonies

This post offers several different home services for the Hannukah candle lighting, including blessings, intentions, readings and songs that reflect

Hanukkah Blessings & Hanerot Halalu with Feminine God Language

Hanukkah Blessings & Hanerot Halalu with Feminine God Language

This post presents alternative versions of “Hanerot Halalu,” as well as the blessings recited upon lighting the menorah. As explained in more

The Scroll of Antiochus

The Scroll of Antiochus

This document provides the full English and Hebrew translations of Megillat Antiochus (The Scroll of Antiochus), an ancient historical account

Text of Traditional Hannukah Candle-lighting Blessings & Songs

Text of Traditional Hannukah Candle-lighting Blessings & Songs

This document presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated texts of the blessings recited upon lighting the menorah, as well as

Egalitarian Prayer for Rain

Egalitarian Prayer for Rain

This Egalitarian Prayer for Rain provides a parallel Hebrew and English text for an egalitarian version of the Prayer for Rain, recited on

Traditional Sukkot Blessings

Traditional Sukkot Blessings

This site presents the traditional Hebrew, English and transliterated texts for some of the prayers and blessings recited on Sukkot, including

Conservative Egalitarian Seder Ushpizin

Conservative Egalitarian Seder Ushpizin

This excerpt from the Conservative Or Hadash Commentary on Siddur Sim Shalom provides the Hebrew and English text of an egalitarian version of the

Hebrew Prayers for the Sukkah: Upon Entering, Exiting, and Seder Ushpizin

Hebrew Prayers for the Sukkah: Upon Entering, Exiting, and Seder Ushpizin

This document provides some of traditional Hebrew and Aramaic prayers and blessings recited over the festival of Sukkot, including the

Egalitarian Seder Ushpizin

Egalitarian Seder Ushpizin

This Egalitarian Seder Ushpizin provides a parallel Hebrew and English text that can be used to fulfill an egalitarian version of the Kabbalistic

Reb Zalman’s Alternative Hatarat Nedarim (Annullment of Vows)

Reb Zalman’s Alternative Hatarat Nedarim (Annullment of Vows)

This post presents an alternative English version to the Hatarat Nedarim ceremony, in which a person formally annuls his/her vows before Rosh

Proclamation of Faith from Neilah Service

Proclamation of Faith from Neilah Service

This link from Chabad.org presents an audio recording of the apex of the Neilah service, the closing service of the day, where,

Text for Kaparot with Money

Text for Kaparot with Money

This post presents the Hebrew and English texts of the traditional Kaparot ceremony over money, in which the sins of a

The Priestly Blessing at the Western Wall

The Priestly Blessing at the Western Wall

This short video (4:08) shows tens of thousands of worshippers gathered together at the Western Wall for the Birkat Kohanim, the

Humanistic Yom Kippur Services

Humanistic Yom Kippur Services

This post offers links to complete Yom Kippur services from Kahal B’raira, a congregation for Humanistic Judaism in Cambridge, MA. Inspired

Tkhine of the Matriarchs for Yizkor

Tkhine of the Matriarchs for Yizkor

This “tkhine” (supplication) is a para-liturgical prayer in Yiddish with an English translation that is meant to be recited following the

Conservative Kol Nidrei and Yom Kippur Evening Services

Conservative Kol Nidrei and Yom Kippur Evening Services

This excerpt from the Conservative Machzor Lev Shalom for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated texts for the entire

Selichot at the Western Wall

Selichot at the Western Wall

This short video shows thousands of Jews gathering together for the final night of Selichot prayers before Yom Kippur at

We Need Justice and Kindness: A Humanistic Prayer for Selichot

We Need Justice and Kindness: A Humanistic Prayer for Selichot

This post presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated words for a prayer for justice, kindness, and social responsibility written by Humanistic

Selichot Service with Kabbalistic Intentions

Selichot Service with Kabbalistic Intentions

This link opens up a 38 page long Kabbalistic Selichot Service, containing the Hebrew, English and transliterated texts of traditional prayers,

Tkhine of the Matriarchs for the Blowing of the Shofar

Tkhine of the Matriarchs for the Blowing of the Shofar

This “tkhine” (supplication) is a para-liturgical prayer in Yiddish with an English translation that is meant to be recited by a

Abbreviated Renewal Selichot Services

Abbreviated Renewal Selichot Services

This alternative selichot ceremony, intended for the Saturday night preceding Rosh Hashanah, includes Havdalah, original poetry, traditional liturgy, writing exercises, and readings

Kiddush Hashanah: Prayers for Dedicating the New Year

Kiddush Hashanah: Prayers for Dedicating the New Year

Whereas many piyutim (liturgical poems) were composed specifically for the evening of Rosh Hashanah, they did not become a standard part of the liturgy. This excerpt from the

Hatarat Nedarim: Annulment of Vows Before Rosh Hashanah

Hatarat Nedarim: Annulment of Vows Before Rosh Hashanah

This post from JewishContent.org provides the English text of the Hatarat Nedarim ceremony, in which a person formally annuls his/her vows

Conservative Tashlich Texts (English & Hebrew)

Conservative Tashlich Texts (English & Hebrew)

This excerpt from the Conservative Machzor Lev Shalom for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur presents the special prayers and passages recited during

Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Simanim Seder

Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Simanim Seder

This 3 page long PDF document offers a sample Rosh Hashanah Simanim Seder, originally a Sephardic tradition in which blessings are

Renewal Tashlich Ceremony

Renewal Tashlich Ceremony

This alternative Tashlich ceremony includes biblical passages and excerpts from traditional prayers, together with an original poem-prayer written by Rabbi Rachel Barenblat.

Psalm 27: A Psalm for the High Holiday Season

Psalm 27: A Psalm for the High Holiday Season

This post offers the Hebrew and English text of Psalm 27, recited twice daily from the beginning of the Hebrew

A “Tkhine” for Lighting Candles on Shavuot

A “Tkhine” for Lighting Candles on Shavuot

This “tkhine” (supplication) is a para-liturgical prayer in Hebrew and Yiddish with an English translation that is meant to be recited

Kabbalistic Tikkun Leil Shavuot with Prayers & Meditations

Kabbalistic Tikkun Leil Shavuot with Prayers & Meditations

This link opens up a 75 page long PDF file containing sections of learning, prayer and meditation for the Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Kabbalistic Tikkun Leil Shavuot & Prayers

Kabbalistic Tikkun Leil Shavuot & Prayers

This link opens up a 186 page long PDF file containing sections of learning and prayer for the Tikkun Leil Shavuot in

Reform Shavuot Youth Synagogue Service

Reform Shavuot Youth Synagogue Service

This 9-page long PDF document presents the Shavuot Youth Service at the Edgware and District Reform Synagogue (now the Edgware &

The Book of Ruth (Text & Audio)

The Book of Ruth (Text & Audio)

This post provides the Hebrew and English text for the entire Book of Ruth, as well as audio recordings from

Peoplehood: A Resource for Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Peoplehood: A Resource for Tikkun Leil Shavuot

This 4-page PDF document provides six sources which address the theme of ‘Peoplehood’ intended for learning with a partner (chevruta)

Tikkun Leil Shavuot Videos & Study Guides from the Reform Movement

Tikkun Leil Shavuot Videos & Study Guides from the Reform Movement

This link provides a collection of short videos of Torah lectures with guiding questions for discussion and reflection that can

Aharon Varady’s Earth-Centered Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

Aharon Varady’s Earth-Centered Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated texts of the original Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and

A Reconstructionist Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

A Reconstructionist Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

This post presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated texts for the Prayer for the State of Israel from the Reconstructionist Kol

Reading the Israeli Declaration of Independence on Yom Ha’atzmaut

Reading the Israeli Declaration of Independence on Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents the Hebrew and English texts of the ritual Declaration of Independence reading suggested by Isaac Gantwerk Mayer, a musician

An Amended Prayer for IDF Soldiers

An Amended Prayer for IDF Soldiers

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for a new version of the prayer for the soldiers of the Israel

Zayit’s Yom Ha’atzmaut Kiddush (Hebrew)

Zayit’s Yom Ha’atzmaut Kiddush (Hebrew)

This post presents the Hebrew text of a Kiddush ceremony written for Yom Ha’atzmaut by Zayit, an organization that runs

Yom Ha’atzmaut Kiddush by Ya’akov Maoz (Hebrew)

Yom Ha’atzmaut Kiddush by Ya’akov Maoz (Hebrew)

This post presents the Hebrew text of a Kiddush ceremony written for Yom Ha’atzmaut by Ya’akov Maoz. The Kiddush expresses

The Israel Movement for Reform & Progressive Judaism’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Israel Movement for Reform & Progressive Judaism’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents the Hebrew and English text of the Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and Grace After

The Israeli Masorti Movement’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Israeli Masorti Movement’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents the Hebrew and English text of the Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and Grace After

Reform Zionist Thanksgiving Prayers for the State of Israel

Reform Zionist Thanksgiving Prayers for the State of Israel

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts of two original Thanksgiving Prayers for the State of Israel, written by

An American Conservative Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut (Siddur Liymot Hol )

An American Conservative Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut (Siddur Liymot Hol )

This post presents the Hebrew and English text of an Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and Grace After

The Religious Kibbutz Movement’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Religious Kibbutz Movement’s Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents the Hebrew and English text of the Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and Grace After

Rabbis for Human Rights: A Prayer for the State of Israel

Rabbis for Human Rights: A Prayer for the State of Israel

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts of a prayer for the State of Israel that encourages people to return

A Reconstructionist Picnic Seder and Haggadah for Yom Ha’atzmaut

A Reconstructionist Picnic Seder and Haggadah for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This post presents a creative Yom Ha’atzmaut ritual developed by the Reconstructionist  movement, designed as a picnic seder, complete with

An American Conservative Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut (Siddur Sim Shalom)

An American Conservative Al HaNissim Prayer for Yom Ha’atzmaut (Siddur Sim Shalom)

This post presents the Hebrew, English and transliterated text of an Al HaNissim prayer added to the Amidah and Grace

Maoz Tzur: A Traditional Hannukah Song (multiple melodies)

Maoz Tzur: A Traditional Hannukah Song (multiple melodies)

Thought to have been written in the 13th century, Ma’oz Tzur is a liturgical poem traditionally sung by Ashkenazi Jews after lighting

Al HaNissim for Hannukah

Al HaNissim for Hannukah

Al HaNissim is a short paragraph added to the Amidah prayer and the Grace After Meals on Hannukah, thanking God

Ya Hatzel: A Sephardic Hannukah Song

Ya Hatzel: A Sephardic Hannukah Song

This post provides an audio recording from the Sephardic Hazzanut Project and the Hebrew, English and transliterated lyrics for Ya Hatzel,

Psalm 30: The Daily Psalm of Hannukah

Psalm 30: The Daily Psalm of Hannukah

This audio recording presents Chazan Maor Cohen singing Psalm 30 with a Moroccan melody. Allegedly composed by King David to be sung

Morrocan Hannukah Candle Lighting Blessings & Songs

Morrocan Hannukah Candle Lighting Blessings & Songs

This post presents the Hannukah candle lighting blessings and songs sung according to Moroccan tradition by Rabbi David Kadoch. The first

Mareh Kohen: A Song About the High Priest’s Yom Kippur Service

Mareh Kohen: A Song About the High Priest’s Yom Kippur Service

This post provides an audio recording of “Mareh Kohen,” a song from the Yom Kippur Mussaf prayer service that attempts

El Nora Alila: Sephardic Neilah Piyut

El Nora Alila: Sephardic Neilah Piyut

In this video, composer and cantor Eyal Bitton performs Turkish, Moroccan and Spanish/Portuguese melodies for El Nora Alila, a Sephardic liturgical

The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

This video presents a popular Ashkenazi melody for the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. Enumerated in Exodus 34:6–7 these Divine Attributes are frequently recited

Ki Anu Amecha: A Yom Kippur Piyut

Ki Anu Amecha: A Yom Kippur Piyut

This video presents a well known melody for “Ki Anu Amecha,” one of the most iconic pieces from the Yom

Moroccan Kol Nidrei

Moroccan Kol Nidrei

This audio recording (9:23) presents an authentic Moroccan Sephardi Kol Nidrei sung by Rabbi Eliahou Elbaz from Meknes, Morocco. In the opening services

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s Kol Nidrei

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s Kol Nidrei

This 6 minute long audio recording features Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach singing a moving rendition of Kol Nidrei, the opening services on the eve of

Achot Ketana: A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Piyut

Achot Ketana: A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Piyut

This post presents the lyrics and a musical rendition of Achot Ketanah (Little Sister), a liturgical poem sung in many

Audio Recordings of Sephardic High Holiday Liturgy

Audio Recordings of Sephardic High Holiday Liturgy

This link will take you to the High Holiday section of the Sephardic Hazzanut Project website, where you can listen

Audio Recordings of Ashkenazi High Holiday Liturgy

Audio Recordings of Ashkenazi High Holiday Liturgy

This link will take you to the musical prayer navigator of Mechon Hadar, where you can find audio recordings for each

Chanting of Moroccan Azharot

Chanting of Moroccan Azharot

This 10 minute long video presents a Moroccan chanting of Azharot (lit. exhortations), didactic liturgical poems enumerating the 613 commandments traditionally

Moroccan Piyutim for Shavuot

Moroccan Piyutim for Shavuot

This video presents a series of traditional Moroccan liturgical poems for Shavuot. 

Yetziv Pitgam: A Piyut for Shavuot

Yetziv Pitgam: A Piyut for Shavuot

This video presents the singing of Yetziv Pitgam, an Aramaic liturgical poem recited immediately following the chanting of the first verse

An Ancient Melody for Akdamut

An Ancient Melody for Akdamut

This video presents an ancient melody for Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during the Torah reading in synagogue on the

A Sephardic Piyut for the Eve of Yom Ha’atzmaut

A Sephardic Piyut for the Eve of Yom Ha’atzmaut

This video presents Rabbi Moshe Elcharar singing a piyut (hymn) written by Rabbi Joseph Messas following Israel’s victory in the

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This PDF booklet contains an Orthodox evening service for Yom Ha’atzmaut in Hebrew and English. Although the basis for the Yom

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s Prayer for Peace

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s Prayer for Peace

This post presents the Hebrew and English text for a prayer for peace in Israel around the world that is

The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel,

The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers

The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces,

Ehud Banai Singing Benzion Shekner’s Melody for Psalm 23

Ehud Banai Singing Benzion Shekner’s Melody for Psalm 23

In this audio recording, popular Israeli singer, Ehud Banai sings Psalm 23 using the famous melody composed by Ben Zion

A Hanukkah Songbook

A Hanukkah Songbook

This Hanukkah songbook contains the lyrics for many traditional Hanukkah songs, including some in English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. Compiled

Ahavnu: A Positive Version of the Ashamnu Vidui Prayer

Ahavnu: A Positive Version of the Ashamnu Vidui Prayer

This post presents Rabbi Avi Weiss’ positive version of the Ashamnu prayer, an alphabetical acrostic of 22 sins recited during

Egalitarian Versions of Hu Ya’anenu (Selichot & Yom Kippur)

Egalitarian Versions of Hu Ya’anenu (Selichot & Yom Kippur)

This post provides links to several different versions of “Hu Ya’anenu,” a prayer that recalls how God mercifully answered our

Prayer for the Peace of Israel During Wartime

Prayer for the Peace of Israel During Wartime

This prayer for the peace of Israel during wartime was written by the late Rabbi Ron Aigen for T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call

An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace

An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace

This post offers 19 original prayers for Israel, based on the themes and structure of the 19-part Amidah prayer. The

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People

This prayer for peace and reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people was written by Rabbi Sam Feinsmith for T’ruah: The Rabbinic

Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

This link opens up a PDF file of Havdalah: A Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, a Hebrew and

The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

This link opens up a PDF file of Twilight: Moving from Memorial to Independence, a ceremony written by the Masorti Foundation

How to Light Hannukah Candles (Sephardic Tradition)

How to Light Hannukah Candles (Sephardic Tradition)

In this instructional video (04:05), Rabbi David Benchlouch of the Sephardi Hebrew Congregation of Cape Town demonstrates how to light the

How to Light the Hannukah Candles (Conservative Tradition): Blessings & Songs

How to Light the Hannukah Candles (Conservative Tradition): Blessings & Songs

Created by the Rabbinical Assembly, this resource outlines the Hannukah candle-lighting ceremony according to Conservative tradition. The document provides the

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

With onscreen karaoke-style texts of the blessing in English, Hebrew and transliterated, this animated instructional video (02:20) teaches how to sing

How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah (With Blessings)

How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah (With Blessings)

This short instructional video (02:59) demonstrates how to light the menorah on Hannukah, including where to place the menorah, in what order

How to Wave the Lulav and Etrog on Sukkot

How to Wave the Lulav and Etrog on Sukkot

We show you how to shake a lulav and etrog! פורסם על ידי ‏‎MyJewishLearning.com‎‏ ב חמישי, 20 באוקטובר 2016 This

How to Find a Machzor (High Holiday Prayer Book)

How to Find a Machzor (High Holiday Prayer Book)

This comprehensive article serves as a guide to finding the right High Holiday Machzor for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Evening & Daytime Kiddush

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Evening & Daytime Kiddush

This post offers links to the traditional evening and daytime Kiddush ceremonies performed on Rosh Hashanah. The page for the

How to Light Candles on Rosh Hashanah

How to Light Candles on Rosh Hashanah

In this thorough instructional video (9:31), Dr. Rachael Turkienicz describes how to light the holiday candles for Rosh Hashanah, including technical and

Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer

Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer

This informative article from Chabad.org provides the Hebrew, English and transliterated text for the Yizkor memorial prayer recited following the

Standing Together: A Social Justice Guide to Shavuot and the Omer

Standing Together: A Social Justice Guide to Shavuot and the Omer

This link opens up a 44 page PDF document full of articles, resources, activities, and programs for Shavuot and the

WUJS’s Thought Provoking Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Students

WUJS’s Thought Provoking Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Students

This link will take you to Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities, a site with several thought provoking activities that encourage students in the Diaspora to

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut (English Excerpt)

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut (English Excerpt)

This post presents an excerpt from the evening Yom Ha’atzmaut service from the Rinat Yisrael Siddur, popular among many Religious

Chag HaBanot: The Festival of the Daughters – Introduction & Rituals

Chag HaBanot: The Festival of the Daughters – Introduction & Rituals

Written by Rabbi Jill Hammer, this post presents an introduction to Chag HaBanot, a women’s festival traditionally celebrated during Hannukah by some Sephardic

Hoshanot: Text & Explanation

Hoshanot: Text & Explanation

This excerpt from the Conservative Or Hadash Commentary on Siddur Sim Shalom provides the Hebrew and English text of the Hoshanot prayers recited on

Prayers for Rain & Dew

Prayers for Rain & Dew

This excerpt from the Conservative Or Hadash Commentary on Siddur Sim Shalom provides the Hebrew and English text of the prayer for rain recited

The Prayer for Rain on Shemini Atzeret

The Prayer for Rain on Shemini Atzeret

In this excerpt from “Every Person’s Guide to Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah,” Rabbi Ronald H. Isaacs introduces the Jewish

Text & Exploration of the Al Chet Section of Vidui (Confessions)

Text & Exploration of the Al Chet Section of Vidui (Confessions)

This article by Rabbi Shraga Simmons explores each line of part of the “Al Chet” portion of the Vidui confession, recited during each

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

This link provides introductory information to the “Ashamnu” part of the Vidui (Confession) liturgy, including the Hebrew, English and transliterated

Akdamut: Text & Commentary on a Liturgical Poem for Shavuot

Akdamut: Text & Commentary on a Liturgical Poem for Shavuot

This 8-page long PDF document provides the Aramaic text and English translation of Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during

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Traditional Practices - Learn How

Click here to show more Traditional Practices - Learn How content

How To Form Perfect Hamantaschen

How To Form Perfect Hamantaschen

From the Lil Miss Cakes baking blog, this instructional video (02:35) provides tips on how to fold, pinch and form

What is the Jewish Holiday of Purim?

What is the Jewish Holiday of Purim?

This succinct article by Ariela Pelaia provides a thorough introduction to the basics of Purim. Published on ThoughtCo, a website that provides in-depth articles

How To Make Hamantaschen

How To Make Hamantaschen

Produced by The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore, this short instructional video (01:34) demonstrates how to make dairy-free hamantaschen, including

Chabad’s Purim How-To Guide

Chabad’s Purim How-To Guide

From Chabad.org, the official website of the Orthodox Hasidic Chabad-Lubavitch movement, this thorough How-To Guide for Purim contains a brief

A Sephardic Hanukkah Recipe: Bimuelos with Honey-Orange Drizzle

A Sephardic Hanukkah Recipe: Bimuelos with Honey-Orange Drizzle

This post presents the recipe for bimuelos (a Ladino derivation of the Spanish buneolos, meaning fritters), a traditional Sephardic Hannukah

The Halachic Guidelines of Giving Mishloach Manot

The Halachic Guidelines of Giving Mishloach Manot

In this practical introductory video (01:47), Rabbi Moshe Elefant of the Orthodox Union explains the halachic guidelines for fulfilling the

The Laws of the Purim Meal & Drinking

The Laws of the Purim Meal & Drinking

In this informative video (03:59), Rabbi Yaakov Laredo, an Orthodox community leader and educator, summaries the laws of Seudat Purim,

How to Light Hannukah Candles (Sephardic Tradition)

How to Light Hannukah Candles (Sephardic Tradition)

In this instructional video (04:05), Rabbi David Benchlouch of the Sephardi Hebrew Congregation of Cape Town demonstrates how to light the

How to Light the Hannukah Candles (Conservative Tradition): Blessings & Songs

How to Light the Hannukah Candles (Conservative Tradition): Blessings & Songs

Created by the Rabbinical Assembly, this resource outlines the Hannukah candle-lighting ceremony according to Conservative tradition. The document provides the

How to Make Sufganiyot

How to Make Sufganiyot

This short instructional video (01:26) demonstrates how to make sufganiyot, jelly-filled donuts traditionally eaten on Hannukah. For an ingredient list and full

How to Make Potato Latkes

How to Make Potato Latkes

This short instructional video (01:36) demonstrates how to make latkes, fried potato pancakes traditionally eaten on Hannukah by Ashkenazi Jews. For an

How to Play Dreidel

How to Play Dreidel

This short instructional video (01:50) demonstrates how to play dreidel, a family-friendly gambling game traditionally played on Hannukah with a four-sided spinning

How to make Moroccan Sfenj Donuts

How to make Moroccan Sfenj Donuts

This instructional video (04:09) from Jewlicious.com demonstrates how to make “sfenj,” Moroccan donuts traditionally eaten on Hannukah. The ingredient list

How to Light the Menorah for Hannukah

How to Light the Menorah for Hannukah

This short instructional video (01:12) presents a basic explanation of how to set up and light the menorah on Hannukah.

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

With onscreen karaoke-style texts of the blessing in English, Hebrew and transliterated, this animated instructional video (02:20) teaches how to sing

How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah (With Blessings)

How to Light the Hanukkah Menorah (With Blessings)

This short instructional video (02:59) demonstrates how to light the menorah on Hannukah, including where to place the menorah, in what order

Welcoming the Ushpizot: A Complete Guide

Welcoming the Ushpizot: A Complete Guide

This thorough article provides everything you need to know in order to run a meaningful, educational and spiritual program about

When & How to Build a Sukkah & What to Do Inside It

When & How to Build a Sukkah & What to Do Inside It

This amusing and comprehensive video by Rabbi John Carrier of Reform Burbank Temple Emanuel provides a practical introduction to the festival of Sukkot, including

Moishe House: How to Build a Sukkah + Blessings

Moishe House: How to Build a Sukkah + Blessings

In this casual, animated video, Joshua Walters shares how to build a Sukkah, including the basics of what constitutes a kosher Sukkah. With

How to Wave the Lulav and Etrog on Sukkot

How to Wave the Lulav and Etrog on Sukkot

We show you how to shake a lulav and etrog! פורסם על ידי ‏‎MyJewishLearning.com‎‏ ב חמישי, 20 באוקטובר 2016 This

How to Celebrate Rosh Hashanah

How to Celebrate Rosh Hashanah

This short instructional video briefly presents different aspects of the Rosh Hashanah celebrations, including ritual foods, lighting candles, making blessings

Tips for an Easy Fast

Tips for an Easy Fast

In this practical article from Judaism 101, the author, Tracey Rich, provides helpful tips to stay healthy during the Yom Kippur fast. Including

Where to Stream High Holiday Services Online

Where to Stream High Holiday Services Online

This article provides a list of non-denominational, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist and Renewal synagogues around the world that live-stream their High Holiday prayer services

How to Find a Machzor (High Holiday Prayer Book)

How to Find a Machzor (High Holiday Prayer Book)

This comprehensive article serves as a guide to finding the right High Holiday Machzor for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

How to Prepare for Rosh Hashanah

How to Prepare for Rosh Hashanah

This article outlines some of the customs designed to help prepare one spiritually for the Jewish New Year and the High

A Guide to the High Holiday Prayers

A Guide to the High Holiday Prayers

This thorough article provides an overview of the contents, structure and themes of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur prayer

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Evening & Daytime Kiddush

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Evening & Daytime Kiddush

This post offers links to the traditional evening and daytime Kiddush ceremonies performed on Rosh Hashanah. The page for the

How to Make High Holiday Synagogue Services Meaningful

How to Make High Holiday Synagogue Services Meaningful

This honest article presents six simple tips to transform lengthy, frustrating services into a meaningful prayer experience. With an emphasis

How to Make a Shofar

How to Make a Shofar

This 4 minute long video shows how a ram’s horn is transformed into a shofar, the musical instrument and ritual

How to Light Candles on Rosh Hashanah

How to Light Candles on Rosh Hashanah

In this thorough instructional video (9:31), Dr. Rachael Turkienicz describes how to light the holiday candles for Rosh Hashanah, including technical and

How to Blow the Shofar

How to Blow the Shofar

This short instructional video demonstrates how to blow the shofar on Rosh Hashanah, including an explanation of the three different

How to Braid a Round Challah for Rosh Hashanah

How to Braid a Round Challah for Rosh Hashanah

This short instructional video demonstrates three different methods for making a circular challah, as is customary for Rosh Hashanah. There

How to Organize a Feminist/Women’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot

How to Organize a Feminist/Women’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Noting that women are learning more Torah than ever before in Jewish history, this article from Ritualwell encourages women to further reclaim their

Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer

Yizkor: The Memorial Prayer

This informative article from Chabad.org provides the Hebrew, English and transliterated text for the Yizkor memorial prayer recited following the

Procedure for Holiday Candle-Lighting

Procedure for Holiday Candle-Lighting

This informative post from Chabad.org provides the transliterated and translated English text for the blessings upon lighting the candles at

OU Synagogue Resources: Innovative Shavuot Programming

OU Synagogue Resources: Innovative Shavuot Programming

This link opens up an article which offers unique ideas for engaging Shavuot programs for all ages from Orthodox synagogues throughout

How to Make Shavuot Meaningful & Fun for Your Community

How to Make Shavuot Meaningful & Fun for Your Community

This post provides ideas for how to make Shavuot meaningful and fun for your community and family. Focusing on the

Standing Together: A Social Justice Guide to Shavuot and the Omer

Standing Together: A Social Justice Guide to Shavuot and the Omer

This link opens up a 44 page PDF document full of articles, resources, activities, and programs for Shavuot and the

Israeli Recipes for Yom Ha’atzmaut

Israeli Recipes for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This link provides a selection of delicious recipes perfect for a festive Yom Ha’atzmaut BBQ, contributed by members of Israel’s Anglo

Yom Ha’atzmaut Resources for Elementary School Students

Yom Ha’atzmaut Resources for Elementary School Students

This link from The Lookstein Center for Jewish Education provides educators with activities, lessons and resources that can be used

Remembrance & Renewal: Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Children

Remembrance & Renewal: Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Children

This post presents a series of fun and educational games and activities about the history and significance of the State

HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel

HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel

This video presents Israel’s national anthem, HaTikvah (The Hope), with on-screen Hebrew, English and transliterated subtitles. Adapted from a poem

WUJS’s Thought Provoking Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Students

WUJS’s Thought Provoking Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Students

This link will take you to Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities, a site with several thought provoking activities that encourage students in the Diaspora to

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut (English Excerpt)

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut (English Excerpt)

This post presents an excerpt from the evening Yom Ha’atzmaut service from the Rinat Yisrael Siddur, popular among many Religious

Ideas for Booths at a Yom Ha’atzmaut Event

Ideas for Booths at a Yom Ha’atzmaut Event

This short post from The Center for Religious Affairs in the Diaspora and World Bnei Akiva provides a list of 17 ideas for booths

Learn to Recite the First Paragraph of the Traditional Prayer for the State of Israel

Learn to Recite the First Paragraph of the Traditional Prayer for the State of Israel

This minute-long video presents a slow Hebrew reading of the first paragraph of the Prayer for the State of Israel customarily

Learn to Recite the Prayer for the State of Israel

Learn to Recite the Prayer for the State of Israel

This minute-long video presents a Hebrew reading of the traditional Prayer for the State of Israel customarily recited in synagogues

How to Create a Meaningful Yom Ha’atzmaut Community Celebration

How to Create a Meaningful Yom Ha’atzmaut Community Celebration

This article is a guide for how to create a meaningful Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration for your community without significant resources.

Hannukah FAQ

Hannukah FAQ

This thorough article answers all of your questions about the Jewish Festival of Lights, including instructions for how to spell and

Hoshanot: When, How, When

Hoshanot: When, How, When

This thorough article from Chabad.org explains the origins and meaning of the Hoshanot prayers recited on Sukkot, as well as

How & Why to Shake the Lulav & Etrog

How & Why to Shake the Lulav & Etrog

In this clear, instructional video, Jesse M. Olitzky from the Conservative Congregation Beth El in New Jersey introduces each of the

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

This link provides introductory information to the “Ashamnu” part of the Vidui (Confession) liturgy, including the Hebrew, English and transliterated

What To Do the Day Before Yom Kippur

What To Do the Day Before Yom Kippur

This introductory article from Chabad.org provides a brief overview of the mitzvot and rituals performed on the day before Yom Kippur, according to Orthodox

How to Observe Yom Kippur 2018

How to Observe Yom Kippur 2018

This introductory article from Chabad.org explains the history, customs and deep spiritual significance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. The article

A Guide to Yom Kippur Prayers

A Guide to Yom Kippur Prayers

This informative article by Conservative Rabbi Daniel Kohn provides a guide for Yom Kippur prayer services, including the origins, content, and rituals of each of

Yom Kippur: The Three Levels of Forgiveness

Yom Kippur: The Three Levels of Forgiveness

In this 3.5 minute long video from Aish.com, Orthodox Rabbi, Etiel Goldwicht explores how to truly forgive someone who has hurt you

Maimonides’ 4 Steps to Teshuvah

Maimonides’ 4 Steps to Teshuvah

This short video outlines the four steps to teshuvah (repentance), according to Maimonides: regret our actions, stop doing them, confess

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

This link opens up the Winter 2018 issue of the The Jewish Educator journal, full of articles, resources, activities, and lesson

An Introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and How to Celebrate

An Introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and How to Celebrate

This short article from the website of the Reform movement provides a brief introduction to Yom Ha’atzmaut and how it is

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Music

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Chad Gadya

Chad Gadya

Traditionally sung in Aramaic and Hebrew, Chad Gadya is a playful cumulative song sung at the end of the Passover

Six13: Uptown Passover

Six13: Uptown Passover

A parody of Mark Ronson’s “Uptown Funk,” this fun music video features Six13 singing about Passover, including a brief retelling of the story and some

Medley of Traditional Hebrew Passover Songs

Medley of Traditional Hebrew Passover Songs

From Brazillian musician, Micha Gamerman, this upbeat animated music video is a festive medley of seven of the most popular, traditional

The Fountainheads: Dayenu, Coming Home

The Fountainheads: Dayenu, Coming Home

A parody of Diddy’s “Coming Home” and Cee Lo Green’s “Forget You,” this high-energy music video features The Fountainheads singing about the Israelites yearning for

Ma Nishtana / The Four Questions

Ma Nishtana / The Four Questions

Known as The Four Questions, “Ma Nishtanah” is one of the most well-known parts of the Passover seder, when the

Ari Lesser: The Ten Plagues

Ari Lesser: The Ten Plagues

In this animated music video, American Jewish rapper, singer, and spoken word artist, Ari Lesser tells the story of the ten plagues

Yaakov Shwekey: Vehi She’amda

Yaakov Shwekey: Vehi She’amda

A modern take on ancient words, the lyrics to this song, provided below in English, Hebrew and transliterated, come from

The Maccabeats: A Multi-Genre Twist of the Traditional “Dayenu”

The Maccabeats: A Multi-Genre Twist of the Traditional “Dayenu”

In this amusing music video, the Maccabeats spice up their boring Passover seder with a multi-genre twist of the classic

Ached Mi Yodeah / Who Knows One? – Interpretive Dance & Lyrics

Ached Mi Yodeah / Who Knows One? – Interpretive Dance & Lyrics

Echad Mi Yodea (Who Knows One?) is a traditional song sung at the end of the Passover seder. A cumulative

Hashkediyah Porachat: An Israeli Tu B’Shvat Song

Hashkediyah Porachat: An Israeli Tu B’Shvat Song

This animated video accompanies one of the most classic Israeli folk songs for Tu B’Shvat, “Hashkediya Porachat.” Literally, “The Almond

Debbie Friedman: The Tu B’Shvat Song

Debbie Friedman: The Tu B’Shvat Song

Composed by beloved Jewish American singer-songwriter, Debbie Friedman, The Tu B’Shvat Song celebrates the beauty of trees and the importance of planting

Shir Soul: Get Out and Plant A Tree

Shir Soul: Get Out and Plant A Tree

By Shir Soul, a Jewish a cappella group based in New York, this song encourages listeners to plant trees in Israel

Nina Simone: Eretz Zavat Chalav u’Dvash

Nina Simone: Eretz Zavat Chalav u’Dvash

This audio recording presents American singer Nina Simone performing the Israeli folk song “Eretz Zavat Chalav u’Dvash” (The Land Flowing

20 000 Brothers: A Tribute Song to Sean Carmeli

20 000 Brothers: A Tribute Song to Sean Carmeli

In Hebrew with English subtitles, this powerful song was written by Ariel Horowitz as a tribute to First Sgt. Nissim Sean

Yonina: If Purim Was A Pop Song

Yonina: If Purim Was A Pop Song

In this video, husband-wife team, Yonina, get dressed up and tell an abridged musical version of the Purim story through a medley of

Alicia Jo Rabins: I’m Done Dressing Up – A Feminist Folk Song for Vashti

Alicia Jo Rabins: I’m Done Dressing Up – A Feminist Folk Song for Vashti

This creative animated music video features Alicia Jo Rabins singing an original fiddle tune based on the midrash that when King Achashverosh

The Fountainheads: Raise Your Mask

The Fountainheads: Raise Your Mask

A parody of “Raise Your Glass” by P!nk, this high-energy music video features The Fountainheads singing a fun, empowering song about the story of Purim

Hop! Mayne Hamentashen: A Yiddish Folksong for Purim

Hop! Mayne Hamentashen: A Yiddish Folksong for Purim

Sung in Yiddish with English subtitles, this upbeat Yiddish folk song tells the story of a woman making Hamantaschen to

The Maccabeats: Purim Song

The Maccabeats: Purim Song

This video presents a parody of “Raise Your Glass” by P!nk from the Maccabeats, an all-male Jewish a cappella group that originally formed as Yeshiva

Mandisa: Born For This (Esther)

Mandisa: Born For This (Esther)

This dramatic music video presents a song by contemporary Christian artist, Mandisa, which attests to the courage and faith it

Purim Senses Song: Experiencing The Mitzvot

Purim Senses Song: Experiencing The Mitzvot

Written and performed by Rabbi Yossi Berktin, an Orthodox children’s educator and musician, this catchy kids’ video uses song and animation

4 Mitzvot 4 Purim: A Catchy Children’s Song

4 Mitzvot 4 Purim: A Catchy Children’s Song

In this sweet video, Eliana Light presents a catchy children’s song about the four mitzvot of Purim – reading the Purim story from

Medley of Traditional Hebrew Purim Songs

Medley of Traditional Hebrew Purim Songs

From Brazillian musician, Micha Gamerman, this upbeat animated music video (08:26), is a festive medley of nine of the most popular,

The Song of the Palmach

The Song of the Palmach

This song (until 01:52) was the anthem of the Palmach, the elite fighting force of the Haganah, the underground army

Yaffa Yarkoni: Bab el Wad

Yaffa Yarkoni: Bab el Wad

Written by Haim Gouri, composed by Shmuel Farshko and performed by Yaffa Yarkoni, this moving song commemorates the battles of

The Nachal Band: Song of Friendship

The Nachal Band: Song of Friendship

Written by Haim Gouri at the end of the War of Independence and most famously sung by The Nachal Band,

Yaffa Yarkoni: In the Plains of the Negev

Yaffa Yarkoni: In the Plains of the Negev

Originally written in Russian by P. Mamaychuk in 1943 with music by L. Shokhin, this song was translated to a Hebrew

Judah and His Maccabees: A Hanukkah Gospel Story

Judah and His Maccabees: A Hanukkah Gospel Story

This entertaining video (03:17) presents a gospel retelling of the Hanukkah story, performed by Karen Hart and Vox Femina.

Six13’s Hanukkah Songs

Six13’s Hanukkah Songs

This post presents ten fun and creative Hanukkah-themed music videos created by Six13, an all-male Jewish a cappella group driven by

Hasidic Hannukah Medley (Yiddish)

Hasidic Hannukah Medley (Yiddish)

This upbeat video presents a medley of classic Yiddish Hasidic Hannukah songs, performed by Belz Hasidic singer, Shulem Lemmer, the Freilach

Ari Lesser: Hannukah Hip Hop & Yehudit

Ari Lesser: Hannukah Hip Hop & Yehudit

This post features two Hannukah raps by American Jewish rapper, singer, and spoken word artist, Ari Lesser. Hip Hop Hannukah retells the

Hannukah Songs for Kids

Hannukah Songs for Kids

This child-friendly animated video features nine English Hannukah songs for young children, including classics such as “Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel” and

Julie Geller: Hannukah Hymn (A Contemporary Al Hanisim)

Julie Geller: Hannukah Hymn (A Contemporary Al Hanisim)

A contemporary take on the traditional Al Hanisim prayer for Hannukah, this Jewish folk song by Julie Geller encourages us

Yonina: Mashup of Traditional Hannukah & Modern Israeli Songs

Yonina: Mashup of Traditional Hannukah & Modern Israeli Songs

In this music video, husband-wife team, Yonina, perform a creative medley of traditional Hannukah songs, including Maoz Tzur and Al Hanissim, with modern

Michelle Citrin: Left to Right

Michelle Citrin: Left to Right

Written by William Levin and performed by Michelle Citrin, this song not only reminds us in which direction to light

Hannukah Oh Hannukah (English & Yiddish)

Hannukah Oh Hannukah (English & Yiddish)

With onscreen captions, this video presents both the English and Hebrew versions of this popular Hannukah song, originally written in

Peter, Paul and Mary: Light One Candle

Peter, Paul and Mary: Light One Candle

This video features the American folk group Peter, Paul and Mary performing their popular Hannukah song, “Light One Candle.” Written

Shir Soul’s Hannukah Songs

Shir Soul’s Hannukah Songs

This post presents five fun and creative Hannukah-themed music videos created by Shir Soul, an all-male Jewish a cappella group,

The Maccabeats’ Hannukah Songs

The Maccabeats’ Hannukah Songs

This post presents eight fun and creative Hannukah-themed music videos created by the Maccabeats , an all-male Jewish a cappella group that

Ocho Kandelikas (Eight Candles) – A Ladino Hannukah Song

Ocho Kandelikas (Eight Candles) – A Ladino Hannukah Song

Written by Jewish American artist, Flory Jagoda in Ladino (Judaeo-Spanish), “Ocho Kandelikas” (2:15) (Eight Little Candles) is a Hannukah song describing

The Fountainheads’ Hannukah Songs

The Fountainheads’ Hannukah Songs

This post presents three fun and creative Hannukah-themed music videos created by The Fountainheads. The Fountainheads is an artistic project, led

Adam Sandler: The Hannukah Song (I-IV)

Adam Sandler: The Hannukah Song (I-IV)

This post presents all four versions of The Hannukah Song, a humorous song by Adam Sandler, in which the Jewish

Maoz Tzur: A Traditional Hannukah Song (multiple melodies)

Maoz Tzur: A Traditional Hannukah Song (multiple melodies)

Thought to have been written in the 13th century, Ma’oz Tzur is a liturgical poem traditionally sung by Ashkenazi Jews after lighting

Al HaNissim for Hannukah

Al HaNissim for Hannukah

Al HaNissim is a short paragraph added to the Amidah prayer and the Grace After Meals on Hannukah, thanking God

Ya Hatzel: A Sephardic Hannukah Song

Ya Hatzel: A Sephardic Hannukah Song

This post provides an audio recording from the Sephardic Hazzanut Project and the Hebrew, English and transliterated lyrics for Ya Hatzel,

Psalm 30: The Daily Psalm of Hannukah

Psalm 30: The Daily Psalm of Hannukah

This audio recording presents Chazan Maor Cohen singing Psalm 30 with a Moroccan melody. Allegedly composed by King David to be sung

Morrocan Hannukah Candle Lighting Blessings & Songs

Morrocan Hannukah Candle Lighting Blessings & Songs

This post presents the Hannukah candle lighting blessings and songs sung according to Moroccan tradition by Rabbi David Kadoch. The first

Hatikvah: A Controversial Version of the Israeli National Anthem in Arabic Musical Style

Hatikvah: A Controversial Version of the Israeli National Anthem in Arabic Musical Style

Released in honor of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, this controversial version of Israel’s

Ein Li Eretz Acheret / I Have No Other Country: An Iconic Zionist Song

Ein Li Eretz Acheret / I Have No Other Country: An Iconic Zionist Song

Written by Israeli singer-songwriter Corinne Allal in 1989, during the First Intifada, this moving song, performed here by Gali Atari,

Israeli Sukkot Songs

Israeli Sukkot Songs

This site provides a list of popular Israeli folk songs for Sukkot, many of which focus on the agricultural roots

Vesamachta Bechagecha: A Sukkot Song

Vesamachta Bechagecha: A Sukkot Song

This video features students from the Boys Town Jerusalem school singing a traditional Sukkot song. All about being happy during

The Maccabeats: Sukkos Style

The Maccabeats: Sukkos Style

In this video, the Maccabeats sit around discussing their next project, which leads to a brief Sukkot-themed parody of PSY’s “Gangham Style.”  The

Patish, Masmer: A Hebrew Sukkot Song for Kids

Patish, Masmer: A Hebrew Sukkot Song for Kids

With onscreen Hebrew, English and transliterated lyrics, this animated video presents a popular Israeli Sukkot song for kids all about

Shakin’ the Lulav (Sukkot Parody)

Shakin’ the Lulav (Sukkot Parody)

In this playful Sukkot-themed parody of The Beatles’ “Twist and Shout,” David Bar-Cohn and friends dance around Jerusalem and Ramat

Do You Want to Build A Sukkah? A Frozen Parody

Do You Want to Build A Sukkah? A Frozen Parody

In this sweet, homemade video, Mia Leopold and Mollie Teitelbaum sing a Sukkot-themed parody of “Do You Want to Build

The Sukkot Song: The Time of Our Rejoicing

The Sukkot Song: The Time of Our Rejoicing

In this festive song, Steve McConnell celebrates Sukkot as “zman simchatenu” – the time of our rejoicing. The lyrics can

Ushpizin: A Catchy Children’s Song for Sukkot

Ushpizin: A Catchy Children’s Song for Sukkot

In this sweet video, Eliana Light presents a catchy children’s song about “hachnasat orchim” (the mitvah of welcoming guests) and the “Ushpizin,” the seven

Fountainheads: Living In A Booth

Fountainheads: Living In A Booth

A parody of Marry You by Bruno Mars, this high-energy music video features The Fountainheads singing a fun, light-hearted song about the excitement and joy

A Soulful Ecclesiastes & Sukkot Song

A Soulful Ecclesiastes & Sukkot Song

This animated music video connects the biblical Book of Ecclesiastes to the Jewish festival of Sukkot, through an R&B song by Israeli singer/songwriter,

Jazz/Classical/Folk Version of Sephardic El Nora Alila Piyut

Jazz/Classical/Folk Version of Sephardic El Nora Alila Piyut

In this video, Italian Jewish singer Charlette Shulamit Ottolenghi performs a unique version of  El Nora Alila, combining jazz, classical and folk music

A Yiddish Yom Kippur Song: Odom Yesodo Meofor

A Yiddish Yom Kippur Song: Odom Yesodo Meofor

This video presents a Yiddish song based on “Odom Yesodo Meofor,” one of the core High Holiday Prayers of the

Tap Your Heart: A Catchy “Ashamnu” for Kids

Tap Your Heart: A Catchy “Ashamnu” for Kids

In this sweet video, Eliana Light presents a catchy children’s song based on the “Ashamnu” part of the Vidui (Confession) liturgy.

At the Closing of the Gates: A Neilah Song

At the Closing of the Gates: A Neilah Song

This video presents a gentle welcome to the Neilah service at the end of Yom Kippur, written and performed by Irwin Keller, spiritual

Mareh Kohen: A Song About the High Priest’s Yom Kippur Service

Mareh Kohen: A Song About the High Priest’s Yom Kippur Service

This post provides an audio recording of “Mareh Kohen,” a song from the Yom Kippur Mussaf prayer service that attempts

El Nora Alila: Sephardic Neilah Piyut

El Nora Alila: Sephardic Neilah Piyut

In this video, composer and cantor Eyal Bitton performs Turkish, Moroccan and Spanish/Portuguese melodies for El Nora Alila, a Sephardic liturgical

The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Ki Anu Amecha

The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Ki Anu Amecha

This video presents Israeli singer Erez Lev Ari performing the popular Chabad melody for “Ki Anu Amecha,” one of the most iconic

The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

This video presents a popular Ashkenazi melody for the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. Enumerated in Exodus 34:6–7 these Divine Attributes are frequently recited

Leonard Cohen: Who By Fire

Leonard Cohen: Who By Fire

This video presents Who By Fire, a haunting song by the late Jewish Canadian singer-songwriter, poet and novelist Leonard Cohen based on the

Phish’s Avinu Malkeinu (My Father, My King)

Phish’s Avinu Malkeinu (My Father, My King)

This video presents the American jam band, Phish, performing their version of Avinu Malkeinu (Our Father, Our King), a desperate plea for

Ki Anu Amecha: A Yom Kippur Piyut

Ki Anu Amecha: A Yom Kippur Piyut

This video presents a well known melody for “Ki Anu Amecha,” one of the most iconic pieces from the Yom

Barbra Streisand’s Avinu Malkeinu (Our Father, Our King)

Barbra Streisand’s Avinu Malkeinu (Our Father, Our King)

This video presents Jewish American singer, actress, and filmmaker, Barbra Streisand, performing Avinu Malkeinu for former Israeli President Simon Peres at his

Mogwai’s Heavy Metal Avinu Malkeinu (My Father, My King)

Mogwai’s Heavy Metal Avinu Malkeinu (My Father, My King)

This video presents the Scottish post-rock band, Mogwai, performing a 10 minute long heavy metal version of Avinu Malkeinu (Our Father,

Moroccan Kol Nidrei

Moroccan Kol Nidrei

This audio recording (9:23) presents an authentic Moroccan Sephardi Kol Nidrei sung by Rabbi Eliahou Elbaz from Meknes, Morocco. In the opening services

Yom Kippur: A Book of Jonah Rock Song

Yom Kippur: A Book of Jonah Rock Song

This animated music video connects the biblical story of Jonah, read during the Yom Kippur afternoon haftarah, to the day’s themes of

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s Kol Nidrei

Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s Kol Nidrei

This 6 minute long audio recording features Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach singing a moving rendition of Kol Nidrei, the opening services on the eve of

Review, Restart, and Release: A Yom Kippur Hymn

Review, Restart, and Release: A Yom Kippur Hymn

This video presents an original Yom Kippur hymn by Phil Straus, where the photographer explores what Yom Kippur means to

A Calming Melody for the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

A Calming Melody for the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy

This post offers the Hebrew and English text of The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy, as well as a calming melody composed by The Nava

Dip the Apple in the Honey: A Rosh Hashanah Song for Kids

Dip the Apple in the Honey: A Rosh Hashanah Song for Kids

This sweet animated video presents a popular American Rosh Hashanah song for kids with onscreen karaoke-style lyrics. The video is produced

Achot Ketana: A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Piyut

Achot Ketana: A Sephardic Rosh Hashanah Piyut

This post presents the lyrics and a musical rendition of Achot Ketanah (Little Sister), a liturgical poem sung in many

Audio Recordings of Sephardic High Holiday Liturgy

Audio Recordings of Sephardic High Holiday Liturgy

This link will take you to the High Holiday section of the Sephardic Hazzanut Project website, where you can listen

Audio Recordings of Ashkenazi High Holiday Liturgy

Audio Recordings of Ashkenazi High Holiday Liturgy

This link will take you to the musical prayer navigator of Mechon Hadar, where you can find audio recordings for each

The Maccabeats: This is the New Year – Rosh Hashanah

The Maccabeats: This is the New Year – Rosh Hashanah

This video presents an a capella cover of This is the New Year by A Great Big World by the Maccabeats, an all-male Jewish

Medley of Chasidic Rosh Hashanah Niggunim

Medley of Chasidic Rosh Hashanah Niggunim

This 12 minute long video presents an emotive medley of Chasidic melodies for Rosh Hashanah liturgy, performed by Motty Steinmetz

Shofar Callin’: A Rosh Hashanah Rap

Shofar Callin’: A Rosh Hashanah Rap

This animated music video about the Jewish New Year as an opportunity for change connects the Torah reading of Rosh Hashanah –

Get Clarity: Rosh Hashanah Music Video

Get Clarity: Rosh Hashanah Music Video

A Rosh Hashanah-themed parody of Get Lucky by Daft Punk, this video features Chasidic Rock guitar player Menachem Herman and Orthodox Yeshiva

Rosh Hashanah: Can’t Stop The Feeling

Rosh Hashanah: Can’t Stop The Feeling

A Rosh Hashanah-themed parody of Can’t Stop This Feeling by Justin Timberlake, this video features people  dancing in the streets of Jerusalem

Fountainheads: Dip Your Apple

Fountainheads: Dip Your Apple

A Rosh Hashanah- themed parody of Waka Waka by Shakira, this high-energy music video features The Fountainheads singing about the hope and

What Makes Rosh Hashanah Beautiful

What Makes Rosh Hashanah Beautiful

A Rosh Hashanah-themed parody of What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction, this video features Orthodox Yeshiva students singing about the inspiring

Rosh Hashanah Rock Anthem

Rosh Hashanah Rock Anthem

A Rosh Hashanah-themed parody of Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO, this video features Orthodox Yeshiva students break-dancing in the Old City of

Beth Hamon: Lev Tahor (A Clean Heart)

Beth Hamon: Lev Tahor (A Clean Heart)

This live performance features Jewish singer-songwriter, Beth Hamon, performing “Lev Tahor (A Clean Heart),” a contemporary folk song in which

Chanting of Moroccan Azharot

Chanting of Moroccan Azharot

This 10 minute long video presents a Moroccan chanting of Azharot (lit. exhortations), didactic liturgical poems enumerating the 613 commandments traditionally

Our Baskets Are On Our Shoulders: A Hebrew Children’s Song for Shavuot

Our Baskets Are On Our Shoulders: A Hebrew Children’s Song for Shavuot

This upbeat animated video presents a popular Israeli children’s song abut Shavuot. The lyrics describe people coming from all over

The Song of Bread: A Zionist Yiddish Song for Shavuot

The Song of Bread: A Zionist Yiddish Song for Shavuot

This video presents The Song of Bread, a Yiddish folk song written by poet and composer Mark Warshawsky about the

Stay Up All Night: A Shavuot Parody

Stay Up All Night: A Shavuot Parody

This amusing video presents a song about Tikkun Leil Shavuot, the custom of learning Torah all night long on Shavuot. From

Moroccan Piyutim for Shavuot

Moroccan Piyutim for Shavuot

This video presents a series of traditional Moroccan liturgical poems for Shavuot. 

We’ll Study All Night Long: A Shavuot Parody

We’ll Study All Night Long: A Shavuot Parody

This amusing video presents a song about Tikkun Leil Shavuot, the custom of learning Torah all night long on Shavuot.

Akdamut Chanted with English Translation

Akdamut Chanted with English Translation

This video presents a chanting of Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during the Torah reading in synagogue on the morning

Short English Adaptation of Akdamut

Short English Adaptation of Akdamut

This video presents a short, simple, chanted, English version of Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during the Torah reading in synagogue

Yetziv Pitgam: A Piyut for Shavuot

Yetziv Pitgam: A Piyut for Shavuot

This video presents the singing of Yetziv Pitgam, an Aramaic liturgical poem recited immediately following the chanting of the first verse

An Ancient Sephardic Melody for Akdamut

An Ancient Sephardic Melody for Akdamut

This video presents an ancient Sephardic melody for Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during the Torah reading in synagogue on

Alicia Jo Rabins: An Indie-Folk Rendition of Ruth’s Journey

Alicia Jo Rabins: An Indie-Folk Rendition of Ruth’s Journey

This animated music video presents the biblical story of Ruth, retold by singer-songwriter Alicia Jo Rabins through an original indie-folk song. The

An Ancient Melody for Akdamut

An Ancient Melody for Akdamut

This video presents an ancient melody for Akdamut, the lengthy Aramaic poem recited during the Torah reading in synagogue on the

A Children’s Song for Shavuot

A Children’s Song for Shavuot

This upbeat, catchy song celebrates the excitement of the Jewish festival of Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Torah. Sung in

Koolulam: 12,000 Israelis Sing Naomi Shemer’s “Al Kol Ele”

Koolulam: 12,000 Israelis Sing Naomi Shemer’s “Al Kol Ele”

This inspirational video presents 12,000 Israelis from all walks of life who gathered together to sing “Al Kol Ele” by

Here in the Land of Our Forefathers: Israeli Folk Song

Here in the Land of Our Forefathers: Israeli Folk Song

This video presents an Israeli folk song that captures the early pioneering spirit of the pre-State days, written by Yisrael

The Ten Commandments: A Shavuot Song for Kids

The Ten Commandments: A Shavuot Song for Kids

This upbeat, animated music video presents the Ten Commandments from the Torah in an amusing, kid-friendly way, with modernized lyrics,

Songs of Israel: Playlist of Israeli Folk Songs for a Sing-A-Long

Songs of Israel: Playlist of Israeli Folk Songs for a Sing-A-Long

This almost hour long video presents a playlist of popular Israeli folk songs with on-screen Hebrew and transliterated lyrics, perfect

A Sephardic Piyut for the Eve of Yom Ha’atzmaut

A Sephardic Piyut for the Eve of Yom Ha’atzmaut

This video presents Rabbi Moshe Elcharar singing a piyut (hymn) written by Rabbi Joseph Messas following Israel’s victory in the

Gad Elbaz: The Prayer for the IDF

Gad Elbaz: The Prayer for the IDF

This video presents popular Israeli artist Gad Elbaz’s musical rendition of the prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, which

Kobi Oz: Prayer for the State of Israel

Kobi Oz: Prayer for the State of Israel

This video presents Israeli musician Kobi Oz’s original version for the Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel.

Shlomo Artzi: Suddenly A Man Gets Up (Song of the Morning)

Shlomo Artzi: Suddenly A Man Gets Up (Song of the Morning)

This video features popular Israeli folk-rock singer-songwriter Shlomo Artzi performing a famous Israeli song written by Amir Gilboa and composed

Kumi Ori: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song for Israel’s 60th Birthday

Kumi Ori: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song for Israel’s 60th Birthday

This upbeat song was written by Rabbi David Paskin for the “Schechter Sings for Israel at 60” project of the Solomon Schechter movement

Ani Ma’amin (I Believe)

Ani Ma’amin (I Believe)

Ani Ma’amin (I Believe), a song about the Jewish belief in the coming of the Messiah, is often sung as part

L’Shana Haba’ah: Next Year in Jerusalem

L’Shana Haba’ah: Next Year in Jerusalem

This song captures the eternal Jewish hope and prayer for the return to Jerusalem. Even though the Jewish people have

The Maccabeats: Home (Medley)

The Maccabeats: Home (Medley)

This video presents a mashup of ten different songs about home performed by the Maccabeats, an all-male Jewish a cappella group

Wave Your Flag: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song from the Streets of Jerusalem

Wave Your Flag: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song from the Streets of Jerusalem

This video features people on the streets of Jerusalem celebrating Israel and singing the popular song Wavin’ Flag by K’naan,

This Land: A Song For Israel’s 70th Anniversary

This Land: A Song For Israel’s 70th Anniversary

This Land is an emotive song composed by Jewish British singer-songwriter Stephen Melzack in honor of Israel’s 70th anniversary. Melzack has many meaningful songs

The Pendulum: Between Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Pendulum: Between Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut

This somber song by Kaila Shabat touches on the challenge of moving from the intense grief of Yom Hazikaron to

Come With Me to Eretz Yisrael: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song

Come With Me to Eretz Yisrael: A Yom Ha’atzmaut Song

This upbeat song by Seth D. Lutnick celebrates the beauty of the land of Israel and invites listeners to visit and

The Fountainheads: Hope – A Song for Yom Ha’atzmaut

The Fountainheads: Hope – A Song for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This catchy, high-energy music video features The Fountainheads singing “Hope,” an original song celebrating Israel named after the Israeli national

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut

Orthodox Evening Prayer Service for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This PDF booklet contains an Orthodox evening service for Yom Ha’atzmaut in Hebrew and English. Although the basis for the Yom

The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

The Traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel,

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s Prayer for Peace

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s Prayer for Peace

This post presents the Hebrew and English text for a prayer for peace in Israel around the world that is

The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers

The Traditional Prayer for IDF Soldiers

This post presents the English and Hebrew texts for the traditional prayer for the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces,

Ehud Banai Singing Benzion Shekner’s Melody for Psalm 23

Ehud Banai Singing Benzion Shekner’s Melody for Psalm 23

In this audio recording, popular Israeli singer, Ehud Banai sings Psalm 23 using the famous melody composed by Ben Zion

With What Shall I Bless Him?

With What Shall I Bless Him?

Written by Rachel Shapira in memory of her classmate Eldad Krock, a young reservist killed in the in the Six

Natan Alterman: Elifelet

Natan Alterman: Elifelet

Performed here by the IDF for Memorial Day, this song, written as a poem by Natan Alterman in 1959 and

Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter

Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter

This haunting song conveys the great sacrifices upon which the State of Israel was establishment. Soon after the release of

A Hanukkah Songbook

A Hanukkah Songbook

This Hanukkah songbook contains the lyrics for many traditional Hanukkah songs, including some in English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. Compiled

Hannukah Chant: Let The Flame Be Kindled

Hannukah Chant: Let The Flame Be Kindled

This post presents Rabbi Shefa Gold’s meditative chant for Hannukah, along with her own description of the visualizations that she practices while singing these

Exploring Jewish Peoplehood Through Hannukah Songs

Exploring Jewish Peoplehood Through Hannukah Songs

This educational resource compares the Hebrew, English and Yiddish versions of popular Hannukah songs “Chanukah Oh Chanukah” and “Mi Yimallel

The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War

The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War

To the backdrop of footage from the Yom Kippur War, this moving video shows the IDF Chief Cantor Ltc. Shai Abramson

Neil Diamond’s Kol Nidrei from “The Jazz Singer”

Neil Diamond’s Kol Nidrei from “The Jazz Singer”

This short clip is from the 1980 American drama film, The Jazz Singer, in which the son of a Jewish Cantor

How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions

How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions

This post presents a song with guiding questions from the Masorti Movement in Israel that can be used to teach about

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

Learn to Recite the Blessings Over the Hannukah Candles (Ashkenazi Melodies)

With onscreen karaoke-style texts of the blessing in English, Hebrew and transliterated, this animated instructional video (02:20) teaches how to sing

HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel

HaTikvah: The National Anthem of the State of Israel

This video presents Israel’s national anthem, HaTikvah (The Hope), with on-screen Hebrew, English and transliterated subtitles. Adapted from a poem

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

Guide to the Ashamnu Portion of the Vidui (Confessions)

This link provides introductory information to the “Ashamnu” part of the Vidui (Confession) liturgy, including the Hebrew, English and transliterated

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Does an Orange Belong on a Seder Plate?

Does an Orange Belong on a Seder Plate?

Professor Susannah Heschel added an orange to the center of her seder plate in the 1980s, as a symbol of solidarity

Mimouna: A Moroccan Celebration of the End of Passover

Mimouna: A Moroccan Celebration of the End of Passover

Originally celebrated by Jews in Morocco, Mimouna is a festival celebrating the end of Passover and the beginning of spring

Passover Sacrifice in Modern Jerusalem

Passover Sacrifice in Modern Jerusalem

How was the pilgrimage festival of Passover celebrated in Temple times? In this i24News segment (02:33), members of The Temple

How Shmurah Matzah is Made

How Shmurah Matzah is Made

“Shmurah matzah” – literally, “watched matzah” – refers to matzah baked from flour and water which has been carefully supervised

What are Sephardic Matzot and How Are They Made?

What are Sephardic Matzot and How Are They Made?

When most people think of matzah, they think of the hard, cracker-like matzot eaten by Asheknazi Jews and much of

Matzah, Maror & Wine: What Do They Bring to the Table?

Matzah, Maror & Wine: What Do They Bring to the Table?

What’s the most important ritual food at the Passover seder? In this amusing video (03:28) from Chabad.org, animated talking matzah

Tu B’Shvat Recipes

Tu B’Shvat Recipes

This article includes links to festive fruit-centered sweet and savory recipes especially for Tu B’Shvat, when it is customary to eat

Celebrating Tu B’Shvat with Seven Species Food Art

Celebrating Tu B’Shvat with Seven Species Food Art

Produced by the Union for Reform Judaism, this creative video (01:43) introduces the holiday of Tu B’Shvat and the Seven

Haggadah for the Tu B’Shvat Seder

Haggadah for the Tu B’Shvat Seder

Created by the Jewish National Fund, this Tu B’Shvat Haggadah is divided into four sections, each of which includes a

A Talmudic Tu B’Shvat Tale: Honi the Circle Maker

A Talmudic Tu B’Shvat Tale: Honi the Circle Maker

This clever, animated video (03:37) presents a modern retelling of the Talmudic tale of Honi the Circle Maker, a 1st

Tu B’Shvat Companion: A Handbook for the New Year of the Tree

Tu B’Shvat Companion: A Handbook for the New Year of the Tree

Created by Livnot U’Lehibanot, this educational booklet is a compilation of short articles, thought-provoking questions, sources, songs, and blessings that explore different Jewish

The NCSY Megillah Companion For Teens

The NCSY Megillah Companion For Teens

Created by NCSY, an Orthodox organization dedicated to inspiring Jewish youth to engage with Judaism, this booklet summarizes each chapter of Megillat Esther, and

Another Star/Another Queen: A Purim Spoken Word Poem

Another Star/Another Queen: A Purim Spoken Word Poem

Written and performed by Rachel Kann, this creative video (05:57) presents a feminist spoken word poem inspired by Vashti’s refusal to

Educational Resource: Purim, Peoplehood & Collective Responsibility

Educational Resource: Purim, Peoplehood & Collective Responsibility

Through a hands-on activity, text study and dvar Torah, this educational resource explores the elements of Jewish peoplehood and collective responsibility found

A Purim Poem: A Blessing for the Next Generation

A Purim Poem: A Blessing for the Next Generation

Written by Isabella R. Hess, this thoughtful Purim poem blesses the next generation of Jewish children with the qualities exemplified by

Purim Greetings: Poetic Purim Blessings

Purim Greetings: Poetic Purim Blessings

Written by Rabbi Simon Jacobson, the director of the The Meaningful Life Center, this poem blesses the reader with the profound

A Feminist Ritual: Vashti & Purim Flags

A Feminist Ritual: Vashti & Purim Flags

This post presents a new Purim ritual created by Ma’yan, a Jewish feminist, social justice and leadership training program for

A Feminist Megillah Reading Ritual: Verses for Esther

A Feminist Megillah Reading Ritual: Verses for Esther

This post presents an innovative feminist ritual that some communities have adopted during the reading of Megillat Esther on Purim.

Purim on the Streets of Israel

Purim on the Streets of Israel

Produced by i24News, this short news clip (04:38) shares the spirit of Purim in Israel, where people of all ages throughout

A Halachic Discussion of Women’s Obligation in Megillat Esther

A Halachic Discussion of Women’s Obligation in Megillat Esther

In this video (08:40), Rabbi Joel Finkelstein summarizes the various Orthodox perspectives in the halachic discussion regarding a women’s obligation to hear the

Easy & Unique Hamantaschen

Easy & Unique Hamantaschen

From ReformJudaism.org, this video (01:30) provides a basic introduction to the custom of eating Hamantaschen on Purim, along with four

Purim Food Quiz

Purim Food Quiz

This five question quiz from My Jewish Learning tests your knowledge of traditional Purim foods and the significance behind them. 

15 Creative Hamantaschen Recipes

15 Creative Hamantaschen Recipes

This article from Jewlish.com provides links to fifteen of the most creative and delicious sweet and savory Hamantaschen recipes, including

Traditional Purim Foods for Your Seudat Purim

Traditional Purim Foods for Your Seudat Purim

An excerpt from Teaching Jewish Holidays: History Values and Activities by Robert Goodman, this article on My Jewish Learning introduces traditional Purim foods

3 Creative Mishloach Manot Ideas

3 Creative Mishloach Manot Ideas

Created by ReformJudaism.org, this video (01:14) provides some basic information about how to fulfill the commandment of Mishloach Manot – delivering

With What Shall I Bless Him?

With What Shall I Bless Him?

Written by Rachel Shapira in memory of her classmate Eldad Krock, a young reservist killed in the in the Six

Natan Alterman: Elifelet

Natan Alterman: Elifelet

Performed here by the IDF for Memorial Day, this song, written as a poem by Natan Alterman in 1959 and

Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter

Natan Alterman / Yehoram Gaon: The Silver Platter

This haunting song conveys the great sacrifices upon which the State of Israel was establishment. Soon after the release of

Shelter: A Resource for Sukkot from Limmud

Shelter: A Resource for Sukkot from Limmud

Created by the Limmud Chavruta Program for Sukkot, this 4-page long document contains a wide range of sources that explore the concept

Independence: A Resource for Yom Ha’atzmaut from Limmud

Independence: A Resource for Yom Ha’atzmaut from Limmud

Created by the Limmud Chavruta Program for Israel’s 70th anniversary, this 8-page long document contains a wide range of sources that reflect

Unity: A Resource for Hanukkah from Limmud

Unity: A Resource for Hanukkah from Limmud

Created by the Limmud Chavruta Program for Hanukkah, this 4-page long document contains sources that explore the complex concept of unity in

Pilgrimage: A Resource for Tikun Leil Shavuot from Limmud

Pilgrimage: A Resource for Tikun Leil Shavuot from Limmud

Created by the Limmud Chavruta Program for Shavuot, this 4-page long document contains sources that explore the concept of pilgrimage in Judaism,

Miracles: A Resource for Hanukkah from Limmud

Miracles: A Resource for Hanukkah from Limmud

Created by the Limmud Chavruta Program for Hanukkah, this 4-page long document contains eight sources that explore the concept of

A Hanukkah Songbook

A Hanukkah Songbook

This Hanukkah songbook contains the lyrics for many traditional Hanukkah songs, including some in English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. Compiled

A Replica of the Temple’s Menorah in the Old City of Jerusalem

A Replica of the Temple’s Menorah in the Old City of Jerusalem

Created by the Temple Institute, an organization working towards the building of the third Temple in Jerusalem, this video (05:28) presents a

A Hanukkah Candle Lighting Kavvanah for Peace

A Hanukkah Candle Lighting Kavvanah for Peace

This post presents an intentional prayer for peace in Israel and the world to be recited when lighting the Hanukkah

Hanukkah in the Old City of Jerusalem

Hanukkah in the Old City of Jerusalem

This short video (01:55) captures the magical festive atmosphere of Hanukkah in the Old City of Jerusalem, including tables of sufganiyot,

Collections of Artistic Hanukkah Menorahs

Collections of Artistic Hanukkah Menorahs

This video (04:36) from the CBS American news network explores the Hanukkah menorah as a symbol of light and hope

Lighting the Hanukkah Candles with a Rube Goldberg Machine

Lighting the Hanukkah Candles with a Rube Goldberg Machine

This entertaining video (0:58) presents an impressive Rube Goldberg machine that lights the Hannukah candle, created by students at the

Hanukkah at the White House

Hanukkah at the White House

This post presents video clips from the annual White House Hanukkah party, in which special guests are hosted at the

Clips from A Rugrat’s Hanukkah

Clips from A Rugrat’s Hanukkah

This post presents two clips from a special episode of Nickelodeon’s Rugrats, the first ever Hanukkah episode of a children’s television

A Hannukah Lesson Plan: Jewish Identity, Hellenism & Hanukkah

A Hannukah Lesson Plan: Jewish Identity, Hellenism & Hanukkah

This educational resource explores what our modern understanding of the Hannukah story says about our own Jewish identity, including sources

Rededication: 8 Teachings and Practices for Hanukkah

Rededication: 8 Teachings and Practices for Hanukkah

Created by Rabbi Yael Levy, this complete Hannukah ceremony provides teachings and practices for each night of Hannukah, including quotes,

A New Light: Hanukkah Prayer

A New Light: Hanukkah Prayer

In this poem, Devon Spier prays for a new Hannukah light that has the power to unite and redeem the entire world. The writer,

Hannukah Chant: Let The Flame Be Kindled

Hannukah Chant: Let The Flame Be Kindled

This post presents Rabbi Shefa Gold’s meditative chant for Hannukah, along with her own description of the visualizations that she practices while singing these

A Hannukah Website for Children

A Hannukah Website for Children

This link will take you to an entire website dedicated to teaching children about Hannukah holiday in a fun and interactive

An Interactive Map of the Hannukah Story

An Interactive Map of the Hannukah Story

This article contains an interactive map that shows where the events and battles described in the Hannukah story are believed to

Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Hannukah?

Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Hannukah?

Test your knowledge about the history and customs of Hannukah with this fun quiz from ReformJudaism.org. 

Miracle Meditations for Hannukah: Now & Then

Miracle Meditations for Hannukah: Now & Then

In this article, Rabbi Debra Orenstein takes us back to the first eight days in the rededicated Temple, trying to

A Hannukah Candle Lighting Meditation

A Hannukah Candle Lighting Meditation

In this short video (03:10), Rabbi Jordan Bendat-Appell, a Program Director and teacher of Jewish mindfulness for the Institute for Jewish

A Hannukah Booklet: Readings & Skits

A Hannukah Booklet: Readings & Skits

This Hannukah booklet contains short pieces of Jewish and universal wisdom for each night of the holiday, the text of the

Exploring Jewish Peoplehood Through Hannukah Songs

Exploring Jewish Peoplehood Through Hannukah Songs

This educational resource compares the Hebrew, English and Yiddish versions of popular Hannukah songs “Chanukah Oh Chanukah” and “Mi Yimallel

Kol Ami B’Seder: The State of Israel

Kol Ami B’Seder: The State of Israel

This educational resource by Yaara Salamon-Michaeli from the Kol Ami Jewish Peoplehood Leadership Academy provides biblical, historical and philosophical sources exploring the significance

Inviting Your Authentic Self Into The Sukkah: A Poem

Inviting Your Authentic Self Into The Sukkah: A Poem

This poem describes the welcoming personal spiritual homecoming of the festival of Sukkot, following the intensity of the Days of Awe. Devon Spier, a writer, rabbinical

I in the Sukkah: A Poem

I in the Sukkah: A Poem

This poem by Rabbi Jill Hausman describes the author’s personal experience in the Sukkah. The Rabbi and Cantor of the progressive Actors’ Temple in New York

How to Build a Sukkah: A Poem

How to Build a Sukkah: A Poem

This poem by Eve Lyons presents the spiritual steps to building a sukkah, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, renewal, openess, and

Sukkot Food Traditions & Recipe

Sukkot Food Traditions & Recipe

This article presents the types of food traditionally eaten on the festival of Sukkot according to Sephardic and Ahskenazi customs,

Exploring the Al Het Confessional Prayer Through Jewish Peoplehood

Exploring the Al Het Confessional Prayer Through Jewish Peoplehood

This post explores the idea of collective responsibility through the text of the “Al Het” confession liturgy from Yom Kippur

A Kids’ Tour of the Sukkah Exhibit at Neot Kedumim

A Kids’ Tour of the Sukkah Exhibit at Neot Kedumim

This amusing video provides a virtual tour of some of the most unusual booths featured at the Sukkah Exhibit at

The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War

The IDF Sings Unetanneh Tokeh to a Melody Inspired by the Yom Kippur War

To the backdrop of footage from the Yom Kippur War, this moving video shows the IDF Chief Cantor Ltc. Shai Abramson

Deconstructed Al Het Activity

Deconstructed Al Het Activity

This link will lead you to a detailed outline of a ritual activity based on the traditional “Al Het” confessional

Prayers, Meditations, Stories & Poems for Yom Kippur

Prayers, Meditations, Stories & Poems for Yom Kippur

This post offers a list of links to prayers, meditations, stories and poetry for Yom Kippur, written by Alden Solovy, a

Sandy Koufax & Yom Kippur

Sandy Koufax & Yom Kippur

This short video from abc 7 news looks back at the impact of the historical moment in both sports and

Yom Kippur in Tel Aviv

Yom Kippur in Tel Aviv

With scenes of empty highways, closed shops, and deserted beaches, this video shows how one day a year – on

Menus for Before and After the Yom Kippur Fast

Menus for Before and After the Yom Kippur Fast

Taking into account medical advice for an easier fast and different Jewish ethnic traditions, this article offers menu ideas and

The eScapegoat: A Modern Take on the Biblical Yom Kippur Ritual

The eScapegoat: A Modern Take on the Biblical Yom Kippur Ritual

This humorous, animated video introduces the eScapegoat – a modern take on the biblical ritual where the sins of the

Turning & Returning: A Yom Kippur Poem

Turning & Returning: A Yom Kippur Poem

This poetic prayer by Rabbi Shelly Barnathan asks God to help us connect to the pure essence of our divine

Jewish Emptiness: Kavannot for Kol Nidrei

Jewish Emptiness: Kavannot for Kol Nidrei

This post presents ideas and guiding questions to be contemplated to oneself or as a community before Kol Nidrei, the

Mikveh Ritual of Purification for Yom Kippur

Mikveh Ritual of Purification for Yom Kippur

This post provides the outline and texts for a mikveh immersion ceremony to spiritually prepare for Yom Kippur. With guiding questions,

A Book of Jonah Play for Yom Kippur Afternoon

A Book of Jonah Play for Yom Kippur Afternoon

This post offers the 12-page script of a creative play designed to supplement or replace the reading of the Book of

Enhancing Our Fast with Meditation, Ritual, Blessing & Teaching

Enhancing Our Fast with Meditation, Ritual, Blessing & Teaching

This article provides resources to help one focus on the spiritual essence of the Yom Kippur fast, including a meditation

Ahavnu: A Positive Version of the Ashamnu Vidui Prayer

Ahavnu: A Positive Version of the Ashamnu Vidui Prayer

This post presents Rabbi Avi Weiss’ positive version of the Ashamnu prayer, an alphabetical acrostic of 22 sins recited during

A Vidui Meditation

A Vidui Meditation

This post presents a personal, meditative approach to the Ashamnu prayer, an alphabetical acrostic of 22 sins recited during each of

Egalitarian Versions of Hu Ya’anenu (Selichot & Yom Kippur)

Egalitarian Versions of Hu Ya’anenu (Selichot & Yom Kippur)

This post provides links to several different versions of “Hu Ya’anenu,” a prayer that recalls how God mercifully answered our

Meditation before Yom Kippur for One Who Cannot Fast

Meditation before Yom Kippur for One Who Cannot Fast

This poem is a meditation written by Rabbi Simkha Y. Weintraub to enable those who cannot fast on Yom Kippur

A Yom Kippur Website for Children

A Yom Kippur Website for Children

This link will take you to an entire website dedicated to teaching children about Yom Kippur in a fun and interactive way.

Neil Diamond’s Kol Nidrei from “The Jazz Singer”

Neil Diamond’s Kol Nidrei from “The Jazz Singer”

This short clip is from the 1980 American drama film, The Jazz Singer, in which the son of a Jewish Cantor

A Yom Kippur Glossary of Hebrew Terms

A Yom Kippur Glossary of Hebrew Terms

This glossary from ReformJudaism.org translates and explains many Hebrew words and phrases that one may come across over Yom Kippur, including traditional holiday

For Kids: Really, Really Sorry!

For Kids: Really, Really Sorry!

This entertaining animated video (9:08) teaches young children about the challenges and importance of saying sorry – and meaning it – as

Prayers Ascend to Heaven at the Western Wall

Prayers Ascend to Heaven at the Western Wall

Through beautiful imagery and animation, this video conveys the power of prayer, depicting the traditional Jewish belief that prayers of

An Israel-Focused High Holiday Lesson Plan

An Israel-Focused High Holiday Lesson Plan

This thorough lesson plan aims to help students “taste” the ethnic diversity of the Jewish communities in Israel, experience the immense

Who By Fire: A Poem of Doubt and Return

Who By Fire: A Poem of Doubt and Return

This poem by non-traditional rabbi and spiritual seeker, Rabbi Patrick A. Beaulier, explores many of the intense themes of Rosh Hashanah through a piece based

An Alternative Avinu Malkeinu: Our Parent, Our Sovereign

An Alternative Avinu Malkeinu: Our Parent, Our Sovereign

Written by Rabbi Burt Jacobson of the Jewish Renewal movement, this alternative version of the liturgical prayer, Avinu Malkeinu, refers to God

Kesher V’Gesher: A Prayer for Rosh Hashanah

Kesher V’Gesher: A Prayer for Rosh Hashanah

This poem by Trisha Arlin describes the intensity of the process of repentance and growth of the High Holiday season, focusing on the power

Shofar Meditations for the Days of Awe

Shofar Meditations for the Days of Awe

This post offers two guided meditations based on the imagery and spiritual power of the shofar. Designed for Rosh Hashanah and

A Mikveh Immersion Ceremony for Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur

A Mikveh Immersion Ceremony for Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur

This post provides the outline and texts for a mikveh immersion ceremony to spiritually prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom

A Rosh Hashanah Website for Children

A Rosh Hashanah Website for Children

This link will take you to an entire website dedicated to teaching children about the Jewish New Year in a fun and

A Rosh Hashanah Glossary of Hebrew Terms

A Rosh Hashanah Glossary of Hebrew Terms

This glossary from ReformJudaism.org translates and explains many Hebrew words and phrases that one may come across over Rosh Hashanah,

The Power of Celebrating Rosh Hashanah in Uman

The Power of Celebrating Rosh Hashanah in Uman

This video gives an insight into the annual pilgrimage of tens of thousands of Jews from all over the world

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Recipes

Traditional Rosh Hashanah Recipes

This article presents recipes for traditional Rosh Hashanah dishes eaten in different communities. The Rosh Hashanah-themed foods are divided into

Kavannot (Intentions) for Shavuot

Kavannot (Intentions) for Shavuot

In this thought provoking piece, Rabbi Rachel Barenblat lays out her personal intentions for Shavuot in the form of a prayer to God

Festival of the First Fruits: A Shavuot Poem

Festival of the First Fruits: A Shavuot Poem

This descriptive poem in Hebrew and English by Kaila Shabat paints a lovely picture of the festive Shavuot celebrations in the moshavim

Revealing Torah, Revealing Me: A Prayer for Shavuot

Revealing Torah, Revealing Me: A Prayer for Shavuot

This thought provoking and poetic prayer by Devon Spier explores the emotions of the moment before the revelation at Mount Sinai,

A Blessing for Kindness on Shavuot

A Blessing for Kindness on Shavuot

This poetic prayer by Devon Spier explores the themes of chessed (kindness), social justice, and communal responsibility through agricultural imagery. These

Cheesecake Recipes

Cheesecake Recipes

This article from the Israeli news site Haaretz provides seven different cheesecake recipes, including bake, no-bake, sweet, and savory options.

Dairy Recipes for Shavuot

Dairy Recipes for Shavuot

In celebration of the Ashkenazi tradition of eating dairy foods on Shavuot, My Jewish Learning provides lots of different recipes, often

Celebrate Shavuot with Shalom Sesame

Celebrate Shavuot with Shalom Sesame

This video from Shalom Sesame tells the story of Moses receiving the Torah on Mount Sinai. This link from ReformJudaism.org offers discussion topics,

Shavuot Resource Booklet for Youth Leaders

Shavuot Resource Booklet for Youth Leaders

This link will open up a 28 page long PDF file full of resources designed to teach youth about Shavuot in

Shavuot Activities for Elementary School Students

Shavuot Activities for Elementary School Students

This link provides resources designed to teach elementary school students about Shavuot in a fun and interactive way. Through word searches, crossword puzzles,

The Jewish Trivia Quiz: Shavuot

The Jewish Trivia Quiz: Shavuot

This link will take you to a Jewish Trivia game website, where you can select “Shavuot” from the drop down

A Shavuot Website for Children

A Shavuot Website for Children

This link will take you to “a Shavuot wonderland for kids,” an entire website dedicated to teaching children about the holiday

The Ten Commandments: A Shavuot Lesson Plan for High School Students

The Ten Commandments: A Shavuot Lesson Plan for High School Students

This link opens up a detailed hour long lesson plan where students explore a theory regarding the division of the

Address by Israeli President Ezer Weizman in Germany

Address by Israeli President Ezer Weizman in Germany

This post presents the full text of President Ezer Weizman’s famous speech in a joint session for the two chambers

S.Y. Agnon’s Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech

S.Y. Agnon’s Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech

This post presents the audio recording (Hebrew) and translated text of a short excerpt from Israeli author Shai (Shmuel Yosef)

Sinai Poetry: A Resource for Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Sinai Poetry: A Resource for Tikkun Leil Shavuot

This 9-page long PDF document provides a collection of poetry reflecting the revelation of the Torah at Mount Sainai from both

Zionism & American Patriotism: A Speech from Louis D. Brandeis

Zionism & American Patriotism: A Speech from Louis D. Brandeis

This post presents the text of Louis D. Brandeis‘ address at the Conference of the Eastern Council of Reform Rabbis

November 29, 1947: The Story of a Vote (Video & Amos Oz Excerpt)

November 29, 1947: The Story of a Vote (Video & Amos Oz Excerpt)

This post provides resources about the fateful vote of November 29, 1947, when the United Nations General Assembly voted in

Prayer for the Peace of Israel During Wartime

Prayer for the Peace of Israel During Wartime

This prayer for the peace of Israel during wartime was written by the late Rabbi Ron Aigen for T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call

An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace

An Original Yom Ha’atzmaut Amidah Prayer for Justice & Peace

This post offers 19 original prayers for Israel, based on the themes and structure of the 19-part Amidah prayer. The

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all People

This prayer for peace and reconciliation for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people was written by Rabbi Sam Feinsmith for T’ruah: The Rabbinic

The Israeli Air Force’s Annual Yom Ha’atzmaut Air Show

The Israeli Air Force’s Annual Yom Ha’atzmaut Air Show

This 4 and a half minute long video presents the air show of the Israeli Air Force passing over the

An IDF Paratrooper Shares Why He is Proud to Be Israeli on Yom Ha’atzmaut

An IDF Paratrooper Shares Why He is Proud to Be Israeli on Yom Ha’atzmaut

In this moving 40 second long video, IDF Lt (res) Eden Adler talks about the unity of Yom Ha’atzmaut and why he

A Prayer for the Palestinian People

A Prayer for the Palestinian People

This English prayer for the Palestinian people was written by Matt Adler to be recited in synagogue in addition to the

How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions

How a Popular Zionist Folk Song Became a Protest Anthem: Video & Guiding Questions

This post presents a song with guiding questions from the Masorti Movement in Israel that can be used to teach about

Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

Beit Tefilah Israeli’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

This link opens up a PDF file of Havdalah: A Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, a Hebrew and

The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

The Masorti Movement’s Transitional Ceremony between Yom Ha’Zikaron & Yom Ha’Atzmaut

This link opens up a PDF file of Twilight: Moving from Memorial to Independence, a ceremony written by the Masorti Foundation

A YU Professor Remembers the Establishment of the State from New York

A YU Professor Remembers the Establishment of the State from New York

In this 4 and a half minute long video, Rabbi Dr. Bernard Rosensweig celebrates Israel’s 63rd birthday by recalling the

We Declare: An Educational Project to Strengthen Israeli Democracy

We Declare: An Educational Project to Strengthen Israeli Democracy

Click this link to learn more about We Declare, a project inspired by the Israeli Declaration of Independence that unites

Israel as the Eternal Home of the Jewish People

Israel as the Eternal Home of the Jewish People

This short video, created for Israel’s 69th Independence Day, celebrates Israel as a home for the Jewish people from ancient times until

A Sephardic Hanukkah Recipe: Bimuelos with Honey-Orange Drizzle

A Sephardic Hanukkah Recipe: Bimuelos with Honey-Orange Drizzle

This post presents the recipe for bimuelos (a Ladino derivation of the Spanish buneolos, meaning fritters), a traditional Sephardic Hannukah

Welcoming the Ushpizot: A Complete Guide

Welcoming the Ushpizot: A Complete Guide

This thorough article provides everything you need to know in order to run a meaningful, educational and spiritual program about

Where to Stream High Holiday Services Online

Where to Stream High Holiday Services Online

This article provides a list of non-denominational, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist and Renewal synagogues around the world that live-stream their High Holiday prayer services

How to Organize a Feminist/Women’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot

How to Organize a Feminist/Women’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot

Noting that women are learning more Torah than ever before in Jewish history, this article from Ritualwell encourages women to further reclaim their

How to Make Shavuot Meaningful & Fun for Your Community

How to Make Shavuot Meaningful & Fun for Your Community

This post provides ideas for how to make Shavuot meaningful and fun for your community and family. Focusing on the

Israeli Recipes for Yom Ha’atzmaut

Israeli Recipes for Yom Ha’atzmaut

This link provides a selection of delicious recipes perfect for a festive Yom Ha’atzmaut BBQ, contributed by members of Israel’s Anglo

Yom Ha’atzmaut Resources for Elementary School Students

Yom Ha’atzmaut Resources for Elementary School Students

This link from The Lookstein Center for Jewish Education provides educators with activities, lessons and resources that can be used

Remembrance & Renewal: Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Children

Remembrance & Renewal: Yom Ha’atzmaut Activities for Children

This post presents a series of fun and educational games and activities about the history and significance of the State

Ideas for Booths at a Yom Ha’atzmaut Event

Ideas for Booths at a Yom Ha’atzmaut Event

This short post from The Center for Religious Affairs in the Diaspora and World Bnei Akiva provides a list of 17 ideas for booths

The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)

The 35 Heroes of Gush Etzion (Video & Teachers’ Guide)

This post provides excellent educational resources about the 35 soldiers who were killed during the War of Independence trying to

Looking into the Flame: A Hanukkah Light Meditation

Looking into the Flame: A Hanukkah Light Meditation

Written by Rabbi DovBer Pinson, an expert on Kabbalah, Jewish Philosophy and Rosh Yeshiva at the IYYUN Center for Jewish

8 Insights for 8 Nights of Hannukah

8 Insights for 8 Nights of Hannukah

Created by NCSY, an Orthodox organization dedicated to inspiring Jewish youth to engage with Judaism, this one-page document presents one Hannukah-themed thought

Yom Kippur Cheat Sheet: Readings to Help You Focus

Yom Kippur Cheat Sheet: Readings to Help You Focus

This 4-page long PDF document is full of profound poems, prayers, quotes and readings that will help you focus on

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

The Jewish Educator Journal: Shavuot Resources

This link opens up the Winter 2018 issue of the The Jewish Educator journal, full of articles, resources, activities, and lesson

Reenactment of the Biblical Shavuot First-Fruits & Twin Loaves Offerings

Reenactment of the Biblical Shavuot First-Fruits & Twin Loaves Offerings

This 4-minute long video presents a reenactment of the first-fruit and twin loaves offerings, as they were performed in the ancient Temple

With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants

With These Hands: Stories of Israel’s Heroic Immigrants

This short video produced for Israel’s 68th birthday tells the stories of the everyday heroes that build Israel’s unique society,

The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)

The Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel (Text & Video)

This post provides resources about the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, including a short video with information and

What Does Yom Ha’atzmaut Mean to You? Voices from the Streets of Jerusalem

What Does Yom Ha’atzmaut Mean to You? Voices from the Streets of Jerusalem

In this 4 minute long video, Rafi Di from HonestReporting asks locals on the streets of Jerusalem what Yom Ha’atzmaut

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Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagagdah – in various languages

Passover Hagadah in various languages Produced by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration        

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