When do the Jewish holidays start? This is a question that many people ask, especially those who are not familiar with the Jewish calendar or the traditions associated with these celebrations. Jewish holidays are based on the Hebrew lunar calendar, which is different from the Gregorian calendar used by most of the world. Understanding when these holidays begin is essential for those who wish to participate in Jewish traditions and observe these special occasions. In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the start of Jewish holidays and how they are calculated.
The Jewish calendar is divided into 12 months, each with a different number of days, ranging from 28 to 30. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which has a fixed number of days in each month and year, the Jewish calendar adjusts to the phases of the moon. Each month begins with the new moon, which is when the moon is not visible from Earth. This makes the Jewish holidays depend on the visibility of the moon and can vary in date each year.
The Jewish holidays are divided into two main categories: chagim (festivals) and moedim (ritual commandments). Chagim are festive occasions that are celebrated with joy and often involve a festive meal called a seudah. Moedim, on the other hand, are holidays that are based on religious commandments and include fasting, prayer, and other rituals.
One of the most significant Jewish holidays is Rosh Hashanah, which marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year. It typically falls in September or October and is determined by the sighting of the new moon. Rosh Hashanah is a two-day celebration that marks the start of the Ten Days of Repentance, a period of introspection and reflection before Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
Another important holiday is Sukkot, which follows immediately after Yom Kippur. Sukkot is a week-long celebration that commemorates the Israelites’ journey through the desert after their exodus from Egypt. It involves building a temporary shelter called a sukkah and eating meals under its canopy.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is another Jewish holiday that starts on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which usually falls in December. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, a candelabra with eight branches, and the eating of foods fried in oil, such as latkes and sufganiyot.
Purim, which is celebrated in the Hebrew month of Adar, typically falls in February or March, also starts with the sighting of the new moon. It commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from the threat of destruction in the ancient Persian Empire. Purim is marked by the reading of the Megillah, a scroll that tells the story of Esther, and the tradition of sending gifts of food to friends and giving charity.
In conclusion, the Jewish holidays start based on the sighting of the new moon, making their dates vary each year. This unique characteristic of the Jewish calendar adds a special significance to these celebrations and requires observant Jews to be aware of the moon’s phases. Whether it’s Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Hanukkah, or Purim, each holiday has its own unique traditions and customs that make Jewish celebrations a rich tapestry of history, faith, and community.
