Judaism P Festivals Flashcards
Why are festivals important to Jews today>
- they unify jews
- continues tradition but for reform jews it is slightly changed so that it is more meaningful and relevant to their communities
- Strengthens faith in God
Outline what Rosh Hashanah is?
A festival that celebrates the ‘start of the Jewish year’
and the first days of awe (repentance) and is used to remember the story of creation at the start of the Torah
What does the Mishnah say about this day and what does this mean for Jews?
The Mishnah says God writes down the deeds of a person, judges them, and makes decisions about the year to come on this day. This means that Jews use it as a time to evaluate their behaviour, reflect on the past year, make peace and ask forgiveness from others.
What do jews do in the home after visiting the synagoue during Rosh Hashanah?
They eat fruit to symbolise renewal of the new year.
What is the Shofar?
Sn ancient instrument made of Ram’s horn which is blown to herald important events and to call Jews to Repentance
Outline what Yom Kippur is?
The holiest day in the year , in which Jews reflect on sins and seek forgiveness from God
Why do many Jews fast during Yom Kippur?
- It is stated in Leviticus 16 that they should ‘deny themselves’
- It is a mitsvah
What is Yom Kippur also described as?
A day in which Jews try and repair their relationship with God. Story about goat in leviticus helps Jews atone and repent for sins before god seals the booj of judgement.
Describe services during Yom Kippur?
the services begin with ‘all vows’ in which Jews cancel any vows that they cannot keep
2. They wear white to symbolise purite and avoid leather shoes, as they symbolise luxury
3. They go to synagogue for reflection/ prayer
4 The shofar is sounded
