Tu BiShvat (New Year for Trees)
Tu BiShvat is the Jewish “New Year for Trees,” a time to honor nature and the environment.
Traditionally, it marks the date when trees in the Middle East start a new cycle of growth. In Lebanese Jewish communities, Tu BiShvat is celebrated by planting trees and sharing fruits such as figs, pomegranates, and dates, symbolizing the bounty of the land. Families come together to enjoy a festive meal featuring the seven species mentioned in the Torah: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.
Purim
Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jews from Haman’s plot to destroy them, as recounted in the Book of Esther. In Lebanese Jewish communities, Purim is a vibrant celebration marked by reading the Megillah ( book of esther), wearing costumes, and preparing Middle Eastern delicacies like sambousek and ma’amoul. Community gatherings include music, dancing, and sharing generous portions of food, keeping the spirit of unity and joy alive.
Passover (Pesach)
Passover, or Pesach, celebrates the Exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. Lebanese Jews observe the holiday with a Seder meal, recounting the story of the Exodus and following the tradition of eating matzah and avoiding leavened foods. The Seder table often includes local flavors, with dishes like lamb stew, Lemon rice, and marinated artichokes enhancing the festive meal.
Shavuot (Festival of Weeks)
Shavuot marks the giving of the Torah by prophet Moses at Mount Sinai and coincides with the ancient harvest festival. Lebanese Jewish families celebrate by studying Torah and enjoying dairy-based dishes, including cheese-stuffed pastries and creamy desserts made with local ingredients. Like halawet el jibn The holiday is a time to reflect on spiritual growth while embracing culinary traditions.
Tisha B’Av (Fast of the Ninth of Av)
Tisha B’Av is a solemn day of mourning commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. Lebanese Jews observe the fast with readings from the Book of Lamentations and by refraining from work and joyous activities. The day is marked by reflection on historical hardships and prayers for hope and renewal.
Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year)
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year and the start of the Ten Days of Repentance. Lebanese Jews celebrate by sounding the shofar and enjoying symbolic foods like apples dipped in honey, pomegranates, and sweetened rice dishes. The holiday focuses on introspection, prayers for a good year ahead, and time spent with family.
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)
Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, is a time for fasting, prayer, and repentance. Lebanese Jewish traditions include gathering in synagogues for heartfelt prayers and reflecting on the past year’s actions. The fast is typically broken with light foods such as lentil soup, bread, and olives, followed by a larger meal with family.
Sukkot (Festival of Booths)
Sukkot commemorates the 40 years the Hebrews wandered in the desert, living in temporary shelters. Lebanese Jews construct sukkahs (temporary huts) adorned with greenery, flowers, and fruits. Meals are enjoyed outdoors in the sukkah, featuring traditional dishes like stuffed grape leaves and roasted vegetables. The holiday is a time for gratitude and connecting with nature.
Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah
Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah celebrate the conclusion and restarting of the annual Torah reading cycle. In Lebanese Jewish communities, joyous celebrations include dancing with the Torah scrolls, singing traditional songs, and sharing festive meals. The holiday emphasizes the importance of community and the joy of studying sacred texts.
Hanukkah (Festival of Lights)
Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. Lebanese Jewish families light the menorah, sing traditional songs, and prepare fried foods such as ……..Hanukkah gatherings are filled with warmth, storytelling, and games like ………..