"A sheaf of wheat in the field bends in the wind from the weight of its seeds, for they are many." - Matityahu Shelem
The festival of Shavuot, originally a purely agricultural holiday, transformed over time to become what it is today containing an agricultural, a historical, and a religious significance, much like the other two pilgrimage festivals, Sukkot and Pesach.
The many names of the holiday attest to its multiple personalities:
On Israel’s Independence Day, when most Israelis are on their way to an outdoor BBQ grill party (mangal), radio stations play a long list of familiar songs. Celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut in US Jewish and Israeli communities usually includes a similar mix of food and music. Here are a few fun songs that everyone can enjoy on this joyous day.
Chag Same’ach!
Happy Holiday!
If you happen to be in Israel during Yom Ha’zikaron, you will notice the sirens, the somber mood, the flags at half-mast and a sticker on many lapels with a small red flower and the word “Yizkor.” The flower, Red Everlasting is called in Hebrew “Dam Hamacabim” (Blood of the Maccabees) and is a symbol for The Memorial Day for Israeli Fallen Soldiers and the Victims of Terrorism.
“After the death of the last witnesses, the remembrance of the Holocaust must not be entrusted to the historians alone. Now comes the hour of artistic creation.” -Aharon Appelfeld
During the 2009 camp season, Israeli artist Sima Sayag spent a month at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin sharing her knowledge of Israeli art and artists with the camp population. Sima guided over 50 campers, ages 11‐16, as they learned about the styles and backgrounds of six artists featured in the Israel Museum. The campers used these styles and techniques to create their own artwork reflecting the programming theme, “Tel Aviv Turns 100.” Campers learned how to mount an art exhibit and acted as docents for campers and staff who toured their gallery.
The Four Sons of the Haggadah – Creative Midrashim
"Each of us contains all aspects of all four children" - Rabbi Yisrael Salanter
“Ha’keves Ha’shisha Asar” (Hebrew: הכבש השישה עשר) is a name of an Israeli children’s book written by Yonatan Geffen, a music album with all-time favorites performed by celebrated Israeli singers such as Yehuit Ravitz, David Broza, Yoni Rechter and Gidi Gov, and a very successful stage show.
The song "Ani Ohev Shokolad" (Hebrew: אני אוהב שוקולד) is about love and about chocolate, and a perfect fit for Valentine's Day!
Explore the story of Gilad Schalit though the resources below which include background materials, lesson plans, ideas for activities, video clips and much more!
