THE YOMS: HOLIDAYS OF ISRAEL
All About The Yoms:
The holidays of Israel, or "the Yoms" are a group of holidays that are central to our Jewish practice of remembrance. As a congregation, and as a larger Jewish community, these days provide us with the opportunity to mourn and commemorate those people throughout history who have sacrificed their lives for a Jewish future.
Below, you can find comprehensive details outlining why and how we celebrate the Yoms, as well as upcoming TI events, where we will gather together in memorial, in gratitude, and in celebration.
YOM HASHOAH | YOM HAZIKARON | YOM HA'ATZMAUT | "ALL ABOUT THE YOMS" VIDEO | EVENTS
Yom HaShoah is Holocaust Remembrance Day. It is a very somber day in which we remember and honor the lives of the 6 million Jews and 5 million others who perished in the Holocaust during World War II. On this day it is customary to say the mourner’s Kaddish prayer and light a remembrance candle. Some communities may have events in which Holocaust survivors are given the opportunity to share their stories.
Yom Hazikaron is Israel’s Memorial Day. This holiday is dedicated to honoring those who lost their lives fighting for the State of Israel. In Israel during Yom Hazikaron, all places of entertainment are closed, the flag is lowered to half-mast, and an air raid siren is sounded twice during the day, signaling a country-wide pause for remembrance. At the end of the day, the flags are returned to full mast and Yom Ha’atzmaut begins.
Yom Ha’atzmaut is Israeli Independence Day. Perhaps the most joyous day in the country, everyone celebrates the Independence of Israel (May 14, 1948). The juxtaposition of Israel’s Memorial Day and Independence Day is not a coincidence. It is meant to remind people that although Israel gained independence, there were many great soldiers lost in the War of Independence and subsequent battles. To celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut, there are speeches, parades, fireworks, and lots of parties!
In this brief video, the Rabbis give insight and background into the history and importance of the Yoms and why we celebrate.
We're here for celebration!
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