Countdown to

Shavuout as we Celebrate the Giving of the Torah

Countdown to Shavuot

Chag Sameach!

Shavuot this year begins Sunday May 16 at sundown. This holiday celebrates the harvest, and most importantly, the giving of the Torah. Shavuot means “weeks” and this holiday occurs seven weeks after Passover.

Because the words of the Torah are sweet as milk and honey, it is customary to eat dairy foods such as blintzes and cheesecakes during this holiday. Shavuot also recalls a time long ago when the Jewish people were shepherds and farmers. They prayed to G-d for sun and rain so the crops would flourish. Nature is also a theme of this holiday

Israel celebrates Hebrew Book Week, Shavua Hasefer, around the time of Shavuot. All around the country, booksellers display their wares in outdoor booths. Celebrate Shavuot this year with your family by bringing more Jewish books into your home to share. Visit the bookstore to purchase a special Jewish book you’ve previewed at the library. If you aren’t already part of the PJ Library (receiving a free Jewish content book monthly for your child, visit www.PJLibrary.org to sign up.)

Here are some nature-loving things you can do this Shavuot with your family:

*Pick wild flowers

*Shavuot is also known as the Festival of First Fruits. Celebrate by trying new fruits. When was the last (first) time you ate figs, kiwi, dates, etc.

*Go berry picking

*Plant a garden for yourself or a loved one

*Decorate the house with branches and flowers

*As our ancestors shared their harvest, share yours. Bring food to the local food bank.

You can celebrate the holiday with a Shavuot brunch. Send out invitations on “Torah scrolls” made from straws and paper tied with a ribbon or yarn.

If your family members have no peanut allergies make Milk and Honey Cookies by combining 5 spoonfuls of peanut butter with 5 spoonfuls of honey and 10 spoonfuls of dry powdered milk. Mix the stiff batter well. Form the dough into little balls and roll in a dish of powdered sugar. No baking. They’re ready to eat!

Reminder: No School Monday and Tuesday, May 17 and 18 as we celebrate Shavuot. Check Bet Torah constant contact emails for services and programing.

With all best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday,

Chag Sameach!

Morah Mindy