Full Description
In
this volume, Bible Studies scholar Yitzhak (Itzik) Peleg offers an educational,
values-based approach to the cycle of Jewish holidays—festivals and holy days—as
found in the Jewish calendar. These special days
play a dual role: they reflect a sense of identity with, and belonging to, the
Jewish people, while simultaneously shaping that identity and
sense of
belonging. The biblical command "And you shall tell your son" (Exodus 13:8) is
meant to ensure that children will become familiar with the history of their
people via the experience of celebrating the holidays. It is the author's
claim, however, that this command must be preceded by another educational
command: "And you shall listen to your son and your daughter."
The book examines
the various Jewish holidays and ways in which they are celebrated, while
focusing on three general topics: identity, belonging, memory. Throughout the
generations, observance of the holidays has developed and changed, from time to
time and place to place. These changes have enabled generations of Jews, in
their various communities, to define their own Jewish identity and sense of
belonging.
Contents
Introduction
Holidays as an Educational Tool throughout the Generations (Ledorotaichem): Examples
Holidays as Tools for Shaping Jewish Identity
Holidays as Building a Sense of Belonging to Our People
Remembrance in the Holidays as Shaping Identity and a Sense of Belonging to the Jewish People
The Memory of the Holocaust as Shaping Identity and Belonging
Developments and Changes in the Holidays throughout the Generations and in How We Relate to Them
Passover as a Reflection (Mise en Abyme) of the Jewish Holidays
Lessons from Our Journey through the Jewish Calendar from a Child's Overview
Epilogue: How Should We Celebrate Independence Day?
Bibliography
Index of the Jewish Holidays
