Lag BaOmer: Little Sleep, Lots of Smoke
Lag BaOmer was completely off our radar when we lived in the United States. We never had any real exposure to it until we made Aliyah, and now its approach is easily recognizable by kids walking down the street, schlepping huge pieces of wood, old furniture, sticks, and anything else that burns.
Lag BaOmer
Lag BaOmer is a break, a time out, a moment to recall an ancient plague that may or may not have occurred, and perhaps a moment for reflection.
Upon Meeting Israel
Israel was that man that my parents were trying to set me up with for years that I’ve been avoiding planning a date with.
Israel is that friend that I always wanted to meet but we always seemed to move in different social circles.
Living Lag BaOmer
The Hebrew letter equivalent of 33 is pronounced Lag (lamed gimel), giving rise to the name Lag BaOmer for this particular day. There is no one particular reason that this day stands out from the other 48 days counted between Pesach and Shavuot, yet many fascinating traditions surround the special nature of this day.
We Are a Sukkah
In our community, we take to heart Rabbi Perlin's words, "Our sukkah is open for all to come and dwell." Whenever we have guests from Israel in our community, they are always invited to attend Shabbat services, and they are also invited to the bimah: for an aliyah, to
The Symbol of the Sukkah
Fragility and Strength: A Litany of Hope for Sukkot
The sukkah is a symbol of fragility. We build the temporary structure each year and know that it is only meant to last for the week-long holiday. It sways in the breeze. The raindrops land inside. The animals nibble at our decor. We know it could come crashing down on us.
Check Out Our Sukkah Gallery!
Choreography in Holy Time
When my son was born, I cradled him against my heart, arms wrapped gently yet surely around his small and fragile body.