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  • HaGadat Enosh for Passover Israeli secular humanist English version

    The traditional Haggadah was formed within the framework of religious Judaism, and therefore its core is thanks to God and a description of his power in the story of the Exodus from Egypt. As part of the fight against Christianity, Moses was omitted from the Haggadah, so that the impression would not be created, God forbid, that Moses is the son of God, like Jesus. And that is why it is also said in it: And the Lord brought us out of Egypt not by an angel, nor by a serpent, nor by a messenger, but the Holy One, blessed be He in His glory and in Himself. As a result, every story of the Exodus from Egypt is narrated as the children know it - including the story of the midwives, the story of Moses in the ark, the story of Pharaoh's daughter. Haggadat Anosh for Pesach preserves the dialogue, but it also renews: the place of the incomprehensible passages as well as those whose time has passed (pour out your anger on the Gentiles), were taken by more relevant and easier to understand passages. A secular-humanist. Haggadah is offered here, in which Moses and Aaron, the midwives, Pharaoh's daughter and all the other elements familiar to all of us from the biblical stories are brought back into the story, and in the process the female characters are also brought back into the story. In addition, Passover and Spring songs were added to this Haggadah. The Passover Haggadah is secular, but its secularity is humane and inclusive. Therefore, it is attentive to the historical Jewish culture. And if our secular culture accepts the tooth fairy from the cultures of the world (for example) without any difficulty, all the more so that it can have a central and honorable place for God. It is not a faith-religious place, but a cultural-human place. And we are all given the freedom to cast into it our sublime values according to the inclination of his heart. The Haggadah Anush for Passover takes seriously the universal human values of the Haggadah (in every generation and generation required a person to see himself as if he had come out of Egypt), and from that, contents were added to it expressing these values. Setting Seder Table: Seder bowl: Arm (burnt meat or burnt shank), bitter root, hard-boiled egg, horseradish (bitter and beetroot mixture), cabbage (boiled potato or fresh celery/parsley), kharosat (sweet mixture). The matzah bowl: Three matzahs are covered with a cloth napkin large enough to wrap the afikomen (half a matzah). A cup to Elijah the prophet. First cup. Allocation of matzah to the Afikomen: The leader of the seder crosses the middle matzah. Wrap the big half in the cloth napkin, and save the Afikomen. The small half remains between the two complete matzahs for the meal. Discreetly remind the children that while the Seder leader goes to wash his hands, the children will be able to steal the Afikoman. General Invitation to the Seder: Why is it important to retell the story of the Exodus? Slaves were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt. And our God brought us out from there with a strong hand and an inclined arm. And if the Holy One, blessed be He, had brought our ancestors out of Egypt in those days, After all, we and our children and our children's children have been slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt until this day. And even if we are all wise, all of us are wise, all of us know the Torah And we all know the story of the Exodus, We are still commanded to recount the Exodus from Egypt again and again every year. And all the multitude for the book of the Exodus from Egypt - after all, it is a prophecy. The Passover story should be suitable for every boy and every girl according to their nature Torah spoke against four women: One is smart, one is guilty, one is innocent and one does not know how to ask. Four women who are one. Four women who are me. Smart, what does she say? And a conviction? And the innocent what? And the one who doesn't know how to ask? I could put things in their mouths and I find no point. Why would I define everyone's words? One of them on one subject, when all four voices rise inside me all the time and on every subject? On the contrary, I find purpose in my endless struggle to recognize their existence, their separate identity, the space that each one of them wants for itself, and that daughter of my voice that connects them all. Therefore, I thank you every year more, for the multitude of voices, for leaving a strait, for a space that is not afraid to hear. (Ahova ben Aharon, from the Haggadat "And she who stood") Narrator: This is the main part of the Haggadah, in which the story of the exodus from Egypt is recited, that is, told, because of the commandment "And you said it to your son." First appears a kind of summary of the client several things: Aramean lost my father, and came down from Egypt, And he lived there for a little while, מגיד My father came from a simple family, from Aram Narayim, He arrived in the Land of Israel, and from there he went down to Egypt. They lived there and at first there were few people, But later they became a huge and numerous people. The Egyptians harmed us and tortured us, and gave us away hard work. We cried out to my Lord, the God of our fathers, And the Lord heard our voice, and brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand and arm hoisted In those days a new king arose over Egypt, And he said to his people: Look at the nation of Israel, how it grew and multiplying more than us. Let's be smart, and make him not multiply. And so, Pharaoh forced the Israelites to build for him Cities and towns, Pithom and Ramses. But as much as the Egyptians tortured the Israelites more, so they multiplied even more. And the Egyptians continued to enslave the Israelites in very hard work. The midwives, The king of Egypt called the Hebrew midwives, Shashman was a virgin and a virgin. He said to them: When you give birth to the Hebrews women, and see the baby on the birthing throne, If he is a boy - kill him, and if she is a girl -let her live But the midwives believed in God, and so, they did not do what the king of Egypt told them. And they left all the children alive. The king of Egypt called the midwives and said to them: Why did you do this thing? Why did you stay? Are the children alive? The midwives answered Pharaoh: Because the Hebrew women are different from the Egyptians. They are like animals. Even before the midwife arrives, they are already giving birth. And God was good to the midwives, and the people continued multiply and grow. And thanks to the fact that the midwives believed in him, God blessed them with their own families. And so, Pharaoh commanded the Israelites: Every son that is born - throw him into the Nile river, And every daughter - let her live. Moses in the ark One man from the tribe of Levi married a daughter of the tribe of Levi. The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. The mother seen how nice he is, and hid him for three months. When she couldn't hide him anymore, she made him a box out of reeds and strengthened it with clay and tar. She put the boy in the box, And she placed the box at the end on the bank of the Nile And his sister stood at a distance, to see what will happen to him. Moses in the ark- song .Pharaoh's daughter collects Moses: At that time, Pharaoh's daughter went down to bathe in the Nile, And her maids went by the hand of The Nile. Pharaoh's daughter saw the ark inside the end, So she sent her maid to fetch her And when she opened the box, she saw a child crying. She felt sorry for him and said: Of course, he is from the children of the Hebrews. Then the boy's sister said to Pharaoh's daughter: Maybe you want me to get you a woman who is breastfeeding The Hebrew women, so that you will nurse the child? Pharaoh's daughter said to her: Go. The baby's nurse went and called the mother the boy. Pharaoh's daughter said to the child's mother: Raise the child for me and nurse him, And I will pay you a salary. The woman took the child and nursed him. In the meantime, the child grew up, and then she brought him To Pharaoh's daughter, and he was like a son to her. She called him Moshe, because she was feasting him from the water. Moses sees the suffering of the Israelites and is sent to save the people: And in those days, when Moshe grew up, He went out to his brothers, his people, and saw that they were work very hard. The Israelites sighed from work and cried out. Said my lord: I really see the poverty of My people in Egypt, And I hear their screams, and know that they are in pain. Therefore I will go down to save my people from the hands of Egypt, And I will raise him to a good and wide land, A land where milk and honey flow like water. And now I send you to Pharaoh, And you will bring out my people, the children of Israel, from Egypt Moses and Aaron turn to Pharaoh: Then Moses and Aaron came and said to Pharaoh: Thus said the Lord God of Israel: Let me people go king of Egypt said to them: Why did Moses and Aaron disturb the people from his work? Go to your sufferings. Speak to Pharaoh king of Egypt all that I am telling you. Moshe said to my master: I stutter, So how will Pharaoh listen to me? God said to Moses: Aaron your brother will be your messenger. You will speak everything I command you, And Aaron your brother will speak to Pharaoh. Moses and Aaron came to Pharaoh, But Pharaoh's heart grew strong, and he did not listen to them. The 10 plagues These are the ten plagues that God, brought upon the Egyptians in Egypt: For each stroke, dip a pinky in wine and sprinkle on the plate. דּם. צְ פרְדֵּעַ. כִנִּים. ערוֹב. דֶּבֶר. שְחִין. ב רד. אַרְבֶה. חשֶךְ. מכַת בְכוֹרוֹת Blood, Frogs, Vermin, Beasts, Cattle Disease, Boils, Hail, Locusts, Darkness, Slaying of the first born. Second cup After the dessert, it becomes clear to the Seder editor/sect that the Afikoman is missing. The kids search for and finds the Afikomen. The kids are promised that at the end of the Seder the gifts will be distributed. Third cup: Pour a glass for Elijah the prophet and open the door. Fourth cup The songs at the end of the Haggadah: One who knows One who knows? One I know: one is our God in heaven and on earth. Two, who knows? Two I know: the two Tablets of the covenant, one our God in heaven and on earth. Three who knows? Three I know: three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Four who knows? Four I know: four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs two Tablets of the covenant, one our God in heaven and on earth. Five who knows? Five I know: five Books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, one our God in heaven and earth. Six who knows? Six I know: six Orders of the Mishnah, five books of Torah, four Matriarchs, three patriarchs, the two tablets of the covenant, one our God in the heaven and on earth. Seven who knows? Seven times I know: seven the days of the week, six Orders of the Mishnah, five Pentateuch of Torah, four Matriarchs, five Books of Torah three Patriarchs, the two Tablets of the covenant, Our God is one in heaven and on earth. Eight who knows? Eight I know: Eight the days to circumcision, seven days of the week, Six Orders of the Mishnah, five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three patriarchs, the two tablets of the covenant, Our God is one in heaven and on earth. Nine who knows? Nine, I know: Nine months of pregnancy, eight days to circumcision, Seven days of the week, six Orders of the Mishnah, five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Ten who knows? Ten I know: Ten Commandments, nine months of pregnancy, eight days to circumcision, seven days of the week, six Orders of the Mishnah, five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Eleven who knows? I know eleven! Eleven stars, ten Commandments, nine months of pregnancy, eight days to circumcision, seven days of the week, six Orders of the Mishnah, five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Who knows Twelve? I know twelve! Twelve are the Tribes of Israel, eleven are the stars, ten Commandments, nine months of pregnancy. eight are the days to circumcision, seven are the days of the week, six are the Orders of the Mishnah. five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Who knows Thirteen? I know thirteen! Thirteen are Attributes. Twelve are the Tribes of Israel. eleven are the stars, ten Commandments, nine months of pregnancy. eight are the days to circumcision, seven are the days of the week, six are the Orders of the Mishnah. five books of the Torah, four Matriarchs, three Patriarchs, two Tablets of the covenant, our God is one in heaven and on earth. Had Gadya One Little lamb My father bought for two zuzim.  Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the cat and ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the dog and bit the cat, that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb) Then came the stick and beat the dog, that bit the cat that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the fire and burned the stick, that beat the dog that bit the cat, that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the water and quenched the fire, that burned the stick that beat the dog, that bit the cat that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the ox and drank the water, that quenched the fire that burned the stick, that beat the dog that bit the cat, that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the butcher and slew the ox, that drank the water that quenched the fire, that burned the stick that beat the dog, that bit the cat that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim.  Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the angel of death, and killed the butcher that slew the ox, that drank the water that quenched the fire, that burned the stick that beat the dog, that bit the cat that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Then came the Holy One, blessed be He! And destroyed the Angel of death, that killed the butcher that slew the ox, that drank the water that quenched the fire, that burned the stick that beat the dog, that bit the cat that ate the lamb, My father bought for two zuzim. Had Gadya, Had Gadya. (One Lamb). Distribute the gifts to the children. Click here for Passover Activity Book for kids https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1092748490?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tpbk_5&storeType=ebooks #Passover # Seder Peach #passover activities #Passover songs# Passover Hagadah #passover seder plate#passover table setting

  • What is Halloween?

    Americans love Halloween: the candy, the costumes, and the creepy decor. But as beloved as the holiday is in the states, it didn’t originate here. In fact, the history of Halloween dates back thousands of years to the Celtic celebration of Samhain, a festival that marked the end of the harvest and the start of a new year. The day was also said to be a time when the veil between the living and the dead was the thinnest, and when humans could communicate with those beyond the grave. The pagan and Christian occasions hadn’t always been back to back, though. Until the 7th century CE, All Hallows Eve fell actually on May 13. Perhaps to offset the occasion with a religious celebration, Pope Boniface IV ultimately made the call to change the observance to its current November 1 date. Scottish poet Robert Burns helped to popularize the word “Halloween” with his 1785 poem of the same name. So where does the name itself come from? According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, it’s actually two words smashed together. “Hallow” — or holy person — refers to the saints celebrated on All Saints’ Day, which is November 1. The “e en” part of the word is a contraction of “eve” — or evening before. So basically, Halloween is just an old-fashioned way of saying “the night before All Saints’ Day” — also called Hallow mas or All Hallows’ Day. Pope Gregory IV changed it to the current date in 837, His reasons were unclear, although influence from Celtic factions of the church and the fact that it makes sense to commemorate death during the fall are possibilities. Click here to get my free Holiday Word search Puzzles book #coloring pages of pumpkins, #bats, #Superheroes, #spiders, #witches, #ghosts. #Halloween Coloring Pages #Halloween Activity book.

  • What is the Omer counting?

    The omer refers to the 49-day period between the second night of Passover (Pesach) and the holiday of Shavuot. This period marks the beginning of the barley harvest when, in ancient times, Jews would bring the first sheaves to the Temple as a means of thanking God for the harvest. The word omer literally means “sheaf” and refers to these early offerings. The counting of the omer begins on the second night of Passover. Jews in the Diaspora generally integrate this counting into the second Seder. The omer is counted each evening after sundown. An Ancient Custom In Leviticus, the third book of the Torah, it says: "You shall count... from the day that you brought the omer as a wave offering" (23:15). "Omer" is a Hebrew word that means "sheaves of a harvested crop" and in ancient times Jews brought the omer to the Temple as an offering on the second day of Passover. The Torah tells us to count seven weeks from the bringing of the Omer until the evening of Shavuot, hence the custom of counting the Omer. Lag BaOmer Celebrations Lag BaOmer is a holiday that takes place on the 33rd day during the Omer count. It's a celebration of the anniversary on which Rabbi Shimon bar Yochi, a 2nd-century sage, revealed the secrets of the Zohar, a Kaballah text of mysticism. Restrictions are put on hold for the day and people can throw parties and weddings, listen to music and get their hair cut. Families go on picnics and in Israel, the tradition includes bonfires and field trips in which kids play with bows and arrows. Although Jews no longer bring omer to the Temple, the 49 days are still called "the Omer." Many kabbalists (Jewish mystics) saw it as a period of preparing oneself to receive the Torah by reflecting on how to become a better person. We commemorate receiving the Torah 49 days after Passover on Shavuot, To get my free book click here # Omer Counting #49 days of Omer counting# Omer Counting Coloring Pages. #Jewish Holiday.

  • Review for Gertrude and Toby's Friday Adventure (Gertrude and Toby #1)

    In this book, Gertrude the goat and Toby the turtle are best friends. They live on a farm, and they are looking for adventures. They decide to go to the market to get candy. On the way, they meet some characters from some other children’s fairy-tales. This is a great book for the kids, the story is exciting and flowing. The illustration is beautiful. This Is the first book of a series. I recommend this book for kids ages 4-7 Shari Tharp is a graduate of San Diego State University and a former teacher. She currently lives in Southern California with her husband and son. Her debut book, GERTRUDE AND TOBY'S FRIDAY ADVENTURE, won a silver medal IPPY award for Best Illustrated Ebook. The next two books in the series, GERTRUDE AND TOBY SAVE THE GINGERBREAD MAN and GERTRUDE AND TOBY MEET THE WOLF, were released in late 2016. In addition to writing, Shari enjoys hiking, biking, and relaxing on the beach with a good book. Click here to Order the book for free on Amazon

  • 20 interesting facts about Africa.

    1. The Nile River is the longest river in the world, is approximately 4,258 miles (6,853 kilometers) long and passes Flowing northward through 11 countries: Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt. 2. The Sahara is the world’s largest hot desert and one of the harshest environments on the earth. It is the third-largest desert after Antarctica and the Arctic, which are cold deserts. At 3.6 million square miles (9.4 million square kilometers) bigger than the entire USA! The desert covers 11countries (large sections of Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Western Sahara, Sudan, and Tunisia). Nearly half of all the gold ever mined in history has come from Witwatersrand, South Africa. 3. The largest waterfall in Africa is the Victoria Falls and it is located on the Zimbabwe and Zambia border. It has a height of 355 feet and the width of the waterfall runs into almost a mile. 4. Four of the five fastest land animals live in Africa, they are the cheetah, the wildebeest, the lion, and Thomson’s gazelle. All of these animals can run at speeds above 50 miles per hour, with the cheetah reaching a top speed of about 70 miles per hour. 5. The most northern point in Africa is Ras ben Sakka in Tunisia. The most southerly point is Cape Agulhas in South Africa. 6. Mount Kilimanjaro is the largest mountain in Africa and stands tall at 19,340 feet. 7. African elephants are the largest living land animals. They can weigh up to 6-7 tons and they drink over 160 liters of water a day. 8. South Africa is also home to the ‘largest green canyon in the world’ and it is known as the Blyde River Canyon. 9. Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. It is in the Indian Ocean. 10. Over half of the population of Africa is under 25 years old, which makes it the youngest population in the world. 11. Three of the world’s largest gold producers have their primary operations in Africa. 12. Africa is the world's hottest continent and the world's second driest. 13. The African continent has approximately 3,000 distinct ethnic groups and Around 2,000 different languages are spoken in Africa and each of them has different dialects while Arabic is the language that is most widely spoken in the African continent. 14. Africa has the best flora and fauna in the world. It has the most flourishing wildlife in the entire world. 15. Nigeria has seen the most twins born in the world. This has earned the country the nickname “The Land of Twins”. 16. Johannesburg is also known as ‘The City of Gold’. This is because it was largely established when gold was discovered in the surrounding areas, and it became a mining town. 17. Men and women across East and Central Africa are often seen wearing brightly patterned cloths called Kanga. 18. One of the largest nature reserves in the world is found in South Africa – The Kruger National Park. 19. Africa is home to 25% of the world’s bird species. There are over 2500 types of birds found throughout their countries. 20. The cold currents on South Africa’s west coast make it the ideal home to the African Penguin. To get my free book Tip for traveling with with kids Click Here

  • What is Passover?

    What is a Haggadah? A Haggadah is a book that’s read during the Seder that tells the story of Passover. The Hebrew word “Haggadah” means “telling,” as its primary purpose is to facilitate the retelling the story of the Exodus from Egypt. It also guides participants through the ritual-rich Seder meal, indicating when and how each rite is performed. What night is Passover Seder? The Passover Seder is a feast held on the first night of Passover that marks the beginning of the holiday. Some Jewish diasporas also hold a Seder on the second night of holiday. What kinds of foods are eaten on Passover? Passover foods are unique in that, beyond the usual rules of keeping kosher, there are special rules for preparing food that is kosher for Passover. Of course, matzah is a central part of the Seder and of Passover meals throughout the duration of the holiday. Symbolic foods eaten at the Seder are maror (bitter herbs, usually horseradish, a reminder of the bitterness of slavery), saltwater (symbolizing the tears of the slaves), charoset (a sweet paste made of fruit and nuts, symbolizing the mortar the slaves used to build the Egyptian pyramids), zeroah (shank bone, representing the Passover sacrifice), beitzah (hard-boiled egg, symbolic of life and birth associated with the spring season), and karpas (a leafy green vegetable, usually a piece of lettuce, symbolizing hope and redemption). It is required to drink four cups of wine throughout the Seder. Some traditional Ashkenazi Passover dishes include gefilte fish, matzah ball soup, brisket, and kosher-for-Passover kugels, and tzimmis (sweet carrot and fruit dish), and macaroons and sponge cake (made from matzah meal) for dessert. A popular breakfast food during the holiday is matzah brie(matzah soaked in water, dipped in egg, and fried). Sephardic Jews have different kosher rules for Passover than Ashkenazi Jews. Sephardic Jews allow legumes (kitniyot), nuts, corn, and rice to be eaten, while Ashkenazi Jews do not. To get my free book Click here ##Passover coloring pages, #Passover Haggadah, #Passover Activity book, #Passover fun for kids, #Seder Plate,

  • What is Purim?

    Click here to know more About Purim Activity book for kids The word Purim means lots and refers to the lottery that Haman used to choose the date for the massacre. Purim is one of the most fun holidays celebrated by the Jewish people, but is often under recognized. Purim (held on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, usually March or April) commemorates the day Esther, Queen of Persia, saved the Jewish people from execution by Haman, the advisor to the Persian king - Achashverosh. Esther bravely exposed her previously hidden Jewish heritage to her husband the king and asked him to save her people, which he did. Purim Customs There is a spirit of liveliness and fun on Purim that is unparalleled on the Jewish calendar. If there were ever a day to “let loose” and just be Jewish, this is it! It is also customary for children (and adults, if they want ) to dress up in costumes. A traditional Purim food is hamantaschen (or ozney Haman), three-cornered pastries full with poppy seeds or another sweet filling. During the synagogue service, the "megillah," of Esther is read aloud, telling the story of Esther and Haman. Because the book says Haman's name was "blotted out," everyone in the synagogue stamps their feet, yells, and heckles using "graggers" (ratchet noisemakers) all 54 times his name is read in the story. Fast of Esther: The day before Purim is known as the Fast of Esther (Ta'anit Esther). It commemorates the three-day fast observed by Queen Esther before approaching King Ahasuerus to request the salvation of her people. Some people observe a partial fast, while others abstain from food and drink until the Megillah reading in the evening. Adloyada Parades: In some communities, especially in Israel, festive parades known as Adloyada are organized during the Purim celebration. These parades feature colorful costumes, music, and lively performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. Purim Spiels: Some communities engage in humorous and theatrical performances called Purim spiels, retelling the story of Purim in a playful and entertaining manner. These productions often include satire, humor, and creative interpretations of the traditional story. Drinking on Purim: Tradition encourages drinking on Purim, and it's common for people to celebrate with wine or other alcoholic beverages. However, there's a cautionary note about drinking excessively, as maintaining control and avoiding inappropriate behavior is important Purim Carnivals: Many Jewish communities organize Purim carnivals for children and families. These events often include games, rides, and entertainment, providing a fun and festive environment for all ages. Charity and Community Support: Purim emphasizes the importance of giving to those in need. In addition to individual acts of charity, communities often organize initiatives to support local charities and help those who may be struggling. Purim Songs and Music: Special songs and tunes are associated with Purim, adding to the joyful spirit of the holiday. Traditional melodies, as well as contemporary Purim songs, are sung during Megillah readings and festive gatherings. To get my free book Click here #Purim #Purim party #Customs #Haman #Purim festival,#a Jewish holiday #Book of Esther, #Queen Esther #Hamantaschen #Purim carnivals #Mordecai #rattler.

  • What is Christmas?

    Christmas is the annual Christian festival celebrating Christ's birth, held on December 25 in the Western Church. The traditional date of December 25 goes back as far as A.D. 273. Two pagan festivals honoring the sun were also celebrated on that day and it is possible that December 25 was chosen to counteract the influence of paganism. To this day some people feel uncomfortable with Christmas because they think it is somehow tainted by the pagan festivals held on that day. The early Christian community distinguished between the identification of the date of Jesus’ birth and the liturgical celebration of that event. The actual observance of the day of Jesus’ birth was long in coming. In particular, during the first two centuries of Christianity,martyrs or there was strong opposition to recognizing birthdays of martyrs or, for that matter, of Jesus. Numerous Church Fathers offered martyrs or sarcastic has before comments about the pagan custom of celebrating birthdays when, in fact, saints and martyrs should be honored on the days of their martyrdom—their true “birthdays,” from the church’s perspective . How Did Christmas Start? The middle of winter has before the light and long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before during the light and the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light sarcastically and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice during the and they when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight offered sarcastically. The Date of Christmas No one knows the real birthday of Jesus! No date is given in the Bible, so why do we celebrate it on the 25th December? The early Christians certainly had many arguments as to when it should be celebrated! Also, the birth of Jesus probably didn't happen in the year 1 but slightly earlier, somewhere between 2 BCE/BC and 7 BCE/BC, possibly inhe wasRoman state 4 BCE/BC (there isn't a 0 - the years go from 1 BC/BCE to 1!). The first recorded date of Christmas being celebrated on December 25th was in 336, during the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine (he was the first Christian Roman Emperor). But it was not an official Roman state festival at this time. However, there are many different traditions and theories as to why Christmas is celebrated on December 25th. To get my free Holiday Word search Puzzles Click Here #Christmas Activity # Christmas holiday #Activity for kids #Christmas photo ideas #Christmas you DYI #Christmas crafts for kids #Christmas #Christmas candy

  • What is Hanukkah?

    Hanukah is the Jewish eight-day, wintertime “festival of lights,” celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers, holiday songs of the intensified and eating fried foods. The Hebrew word Hanukah means “dedication,” and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem by the lighting of candles on each day of the festival. Although not mentioned in the Hebrew Scriptures, Hanukkah came to be widely celebrated and remains one of the most popular Jewish religious observances. The Jewish festival that begins on Kislev 25 (in December, according to the Gregorian calendar). The history of the even tells the rededication of the story of the Maccabees, a small band of Jewish fighters who liberated the Land of Israel from the of the cleaning Syrian Greeks who occupied it. Under the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Syrian Greeks sought to impose their Hellenistic culture, which many Jews found attractive. By 167 B.C.E, Antiochus intensified his campaign by defiling the Temple in Jerusalem and banning Jewish practice the cleaning. The Maccabees — led by the five sons of the priest Mattathias, especially Judah — waged a three-year campaign that culminated in the cleaning and rededication of the Temple. Hanukkah’s foods A typical Chanukah menu sounds as though it were planned by the under-12 crowd: potato pancakes, fried, of course, in lots of oil; sweet cream-cheese rugelach; strawberry jam-filled doughnuts (sufganiyot) covered in powdered sugar; fried apple fritters; cheese-filled doughnuts fried in oil and dipped in honey; cheese blintzes; etc. Is it all just a ploy to keep kids lingering around the candles and enjoying a family meal? Not at all! Chanukah food traditions have their origins in the first years that the holiday was celebrated and are meant to remind us of certain miracles associated with the events of Chanukah itself. And, of course, remembering the miracles and the freedom that we’re all celebrating adds a special flavor to everything we serve. 1.     Gift-Giving: Hanukkah is a gift-giving holiday, and it is common for families to exchange presents during the eight nights of the festival. This tradition is a way to celebrate and share joy, similar to the gift-giving practices of other winter holidays. 2.     Playing the Dreidel: The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters on each side – Nun, Gimel, Hey, and Shin. These letters form an acronym for the phrase "Nes Gadol Haya Sham," meaning "A great miracle happened there." The dreidel game is often played during Hanukkah, with players using tokens such as chocolate coins or nuts. Click here for Hanukkah Activity book for kids 3.     Hanukkah Songs: There are several songs associated with Hanukkah, both traditional and contemporary. One of the most well-known traditional songs is "Ma'oz Tzur" ("Rock of Ages"), which recounts the Jewish people's trials and triumphs. Additionally, there are fun and lively songs like "I Have a Little Dreidel." 4.     Blue and White Decorations: Blue and white are traditional colors associated with Hanukkah. Some people decorate their homes with blue and white ornaments, lights, and other festive items to create a joyful and celebratory atmosphere. 5.     Community Celebrations: Many Jewish communities organize public menorah lightings and festive events during Hanukkah. Large menorahs are often lit in public spaces, and community gatherings may include music, food, and activities for children. 6.     Educational Aspects: Hanukkah is also an opportunity for families and communities to share the historical and cultural significance of the festival with younger generations. It's a time for storytelling, learning about Jewish history, and understanding the importance of religious freedom. 7.     Charitable Acts: Acts of charity and giving back to the community are encouraged during Hanukkah. Some families incorporate a charitable component into their celebrations, emphasizing the importance of helping those in need. 8.     Variations in Traditions: While certain customs are common, specific traditions and practices can vary among Jewish communities and families. Some may have unique ways of celebrating or incorporate regional dishes into their Hanukkah meals. Hanukkah is a time for reflection, celebration, and the coming together of family and community. The rich traditions associated with the festival contribute to its significance in Jewish culture and the broader celebration of religious freedom and perseverance Click here to get the free Holiday Wordsearch Puzzles Book

  • What are Jewish High Holidays?

    The Jewish High Holidays (coinciding with September or October) is full with religious significance, filled with major holidays. The month begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which is celebrated for two days. Some of the best known Rosh Hashanah customs include the sounding of the shofar (a ram’s horn) and eating symbolic foods such as apples dipped in honey for a sweet new year. Pomegranates, that comes into season around Rosh Hashanah, is also eaten, with Jews around the world wishing that their good deeds in the coming year be as plentiful as the seeds of the pomegranate. In the run up to the holiday and during the holiday itself, Jews worldwide wish each other, Shana tova u’metukah – a good sweet year. Ten days after Rosh Hashanah is Yom Kippur, known as the Jewish Day of Atonement. This 10-day period is a time of introspection and reflection known as Aseret Yemei Teshuva (Ten Days of Repentance). During this time, people ask for forgiveness from anyone they may have wronged. Yom Kippur itself is the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, and it is believed that is the day on which God decides the fate of each human being in the coming year. Many spend the day in synagogue immersed in prayer. The traditional greeting during the Ten Days of Repentance and on Yom Kippur is G'mar Hatimah Tovah - May You Be Sealed for a Good Year (in the Book of Life). Shortly after Yom Kippur comes Sukkot, known in English as Feast of Booths/Tabernacles. It is celebrated on the 15th of Tishrei and is one of the three Jewish pilgrimage festivals, when Jews were commanded in the Torah to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Sukkot lasts for seven days (eight in the diaspora). Families build sukkot (booths covered with palm fronds), designed to recall the dwellings the Israelites dwelt in during their 40 years in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. Throughout Sukkot, meals are eaten in the sukkah, and some people even sleep inside. During the holiday special blessings are said over the Four Species – citron, palm branch, willow branches and myrtle branches. The month of Tishrei is the Jewish holidays season. To get my free book Holiday Word search Puzzles: Click here

  • Review for Timothy Mean and the Time Machine

    https://amzn.to/2Ny1Zfv This is a story about a kid, his name is Timothy. One day he decided to do something amazing. He built a time machine, and then he traveled with it across time. This is a great book of fun adventures from different time periods. I love the illustration, it is beautiful and very invested. This is a fun read for kids. I recommend this book for kids ages 5-8. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review I gave it 4 out of 5 start on Amazon William has always had a passion for books, writing and story-telling. William’s favourite way to end a cosy evening is to spend time dreaming up and reading bed-time stories to his five wonderful children. Just one of his many stories, ‘Timothy Mean and the Time Machine’ was inspired by the spark of his children’s colourful imaginations as they tirelessly created unique, laughter filled days from even the most mundane, everyday objects and situations! Born in England, William currently lives in Oslo, Norway with his wife Silje and five children. If you likes this post, please follow, share or comment.

  • Reviews for Travel with Number 10

    Reviewer Nufur on Amazon 5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful book for small children to learn numbers! July 23, 2019 Format: Kindle Edition A wonderful book for small children to learn numbers as well as geography! The book is packed with information at the same time not so overwhelming for small kids. This book can be a great addition to home library or a classroom! I highly recommend this! Amazon reviewer Cute Combo of Math and Geography July 27, 2019 Format: Paperback This is a fun book for children to read - which has an emphasis on geography, math (specifically numbers and counting), and fun local historical information. I recommend this book for the classroom library. It is perfect for independent or group reading time. Kayla Krantz on Amazon 5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Children's Book April 29, 2019 Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase A wonderful little book full of interesting facts and fun adventures. I love the way that the book not only gives the kids an adventure to follow, but it also teaches them math and social studies. None of the information is too in-depth so it is simple enough for young children to absorb and follow along. My son was in love with every page. https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Number-Pennsylvania-Washington-Adventures-ebook/dp/B07FLLWYK9/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Number-Pennsylvania-Washington-Adventures-ebook/dp/B07FLLWYK9/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=#customerReviews

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