How to Respect Shavuot

The period between when the Jews were released from slavery in Egypt and their being granted the Torah on Mt. Sinai is known as the Counting of the Omer (grain). The culmination of this holy period is known as Shavuot, an important Jewish holiday that occurs in mid-year (late May or the beginning of June).

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jewish calendar
• Torah
• Dairy products

Respect Shavuot

1. Know that although most Jewish holidays are highly ritualized, guidelines for how to respect Shavuot are not included in the Torah, so the observance varies from place to place.

2. For instance, in nations outside of Israel, the observance usually takes 2 days, while in Israel it is observed on a single day.

3. Understand that although the Torah doesn't decree how this day should be observed, various regions have created firm traditions for appropriate observance.

Observe the Traditions

4. Attend a morning service at which a poem called the Akdamut may be read. This poem stresses love of the Torah, as well as trust in God and in all He can see and understand that we humans cannot.

5. Eat plenty of dairy on this day (or 2 days, if you are in the Diaspora). No one knows for sure where this tradition comes from, but it is popularly celebrated throughout Jewish communities.

6. Read the Book of Ruth to respect Shavuot, the story most closely associated with this holiday.

7. Place plants, flowers and leaves throughout your home, since life and greenery is celebrated on this holiday. Many Jewish people also take plants or flowers with them to the synagogue.

8. Study the Torah all night--or, if you live near a synagogue or center of Jewish learning that offers classes during the night, attend a class. Many people choose to stay up and enjoy the dawn after this intellectual vigil.

9. Know that Shavuot is considered the Torah's birthday, so anything you can do to deepen your appreciation of the holy book will honor this day. Read a passage you have never read before, consider reading some new criticism of a much-loved passage or simply bring together a group to read and study together.

Tips & Warnings

• As with any ritual, do what you reasonably can. If, for health reasons, you cannot stay up all night studying, speak to your rabbi about how you can modify the traditions to support both you and your faith.

Resources

• Jewish calendar at Hebcal.com