1. Jewish Rituals And Celebrations

2. In this Section Discussion on the following: –Life itself as a ceremony within the Jewish Tradition –Jewish Rituals –Jewish Observances –Jewish Holidays

3. Life: The Ultimate Religious Ceremony

4. Judaism Beliefs on life Jewish traditions reflect daily spirituality within the members of a community. The basic aim of Jewish worship is to see all of life as liturgy Liturgy – Public worship or ritual

5. Life All of life should be a ritual in honor of the Creator. All movements agree this is essential.

6. Jewish beliefs Orthodox – specific prayers are to be said in certain situations. Conservative – less formalized. Rituals should express values. Reform – Action itself is a form of prayer

7. What happens in the Service?

8. Prayer Group Prayer is extremely important in the Jewish Tradition The number, complexity, and purpose of the prayers recited during a service at a synagogue vary. Vary in accordance to hour of the day, day of month, and branch of Judaism.

9. Prayer Services Hebrew is incorporated in all services. (Sacred Language) Reform and Reconstruction are the shortest.

10. Fundamentals to a Service At least 10 adults must be present. Amidah – a group of grateful salutations and prayers of praise to God. Sh’ma – a pledge of faith, “Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.” Aliyah – public reading from the Torah. Aliyah means being summoned to read this (honorable)

11. Yarmulke Required to be worn at all Jewish congregations. Even males of other faiths. Worn to show respect to the presence of the divine power.

12. Minyan To be considered a Jewish ceremony must be 10 adults Most Orthodox and Conservative require 10 men.

13. Shabbat Also known as the Sabbath, or “repose” Rest on the 7th day Friday at sunset – nightfall Saturday Work is prohibited

14. Jewish Observances