O level Notes : FRS - Judaism - Feasts in Judaism

Purim or Feast of Esther

Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from Haman, who was plotting to kill all the Jews. It involves reading the biblical scroll of Esther, followed by feasting, giving presents and charity to the disadvantaged. It signifies the celebration of the Jewish deliverance as told in the book of Esther. It is celebrated on the 14th day ofAdar or March.

Hanukkah or Feast of the lighting of lamps of dedication

It is an eight-day Jewish celebration which commemorates the victory of Jews over the Seleucid religious persecution and the rededication of the temple after its defilement. It is associated with the lighting of candles. Eight candles are lit symbolising the number of days that the temple lantern blazed and the ninth candle is a helper used to light the other candles.

Morden Commemorations

1. Holocaust Memorial Day- It is a civil holiday commemorating the central events in recent Jewish history.
2. Israeli Independence- Commemorates Independence and thanks giving prayers are made.
3. Jerusalem Liberation day- Commemorates the liberation day and thanks giving prayers are made.

Here is what was discussed in this topic

There are various rites of passage in the Jewish religion namely, circumcision, child naming, redemption of the first born, rite of adulthood among others. Sacred attire has distinctive significance including the kippah, the kittel, the tefillim and various priestly dresses. Of all Jewish attire, one common feature is modesty which applies to both females and males. They observe sacred days such as the Sabbath, the Passover, and the Feast of weeks among others. Most of these days commemorate significant events in the ancient history of the Jews. Some of the days are connected to the later history of Israel like the Holocaust and Israel's Independence.

Definition of terms used in this topic

Circumcision- it is a procedure to remove the foreskin that covers tip of the male organ.

Suction - is the act or process of sucking.

Vestments - a robe or gown worn by members of the clergy especially at the celebration of the Eucharist.