Page 102 - Bible Geography and Near East Studies - Textbook w videos short

Purim

Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persian Empire from destruction.
However, it is more a national than it is a religious holiday. In Purim children as well as grown-ups
masquerade in costume and wear masks (like in Halloween) and take part in colorful, funny and happy
street parades and street parties. In the evening the young people hang out on the streets, while private
and public parties are held for a few days before, during and after the exact date of the holiday.
During this holiday, it is a tradition to send candy gifts to friends. “Oznei Haman”, which are sweet
triangular pastries traditionally filled with poppy seeds (or other fillings like dates or chocolate) is the
traditional food of this one day holiday.

Date: around March.
Visitor Tip: the parade in the city of Holon (center of Israel) is the biggest and famous of all.

Hanukkah (Chanukah)

Hanukkah, the festival of lights, is a popular and known holiday where Jews celebrate the victory of the
Hebrew independence over the Roman Empire in the Holy Land around 2000 years ago. The Jews
practice the lighting of the Menorah (Hebrew: hanukiah) candles, playing with a dreidel (Hebrew:
sevivon) and lots of kids songs. The holiday lasts for 8 days.

Date: late December.

There are a few other non-religious holiday including Holocaust Memorial Day, Tu Bishvat, Lag Baomer,
and Summer Break. When traveling to Israel, be sure to plan your trips with all the holidays in mind, as
they can become a major obstacle in travel and purchasing food. Each year most of the holidays change
dates, so be sure to check the current calendar for exact dates of these holidays.

13.4 Let’s Practice…

1. What two seasons are recognized in Israel?

2. What is the climate like in Israel most of the year?

3. Why is the Dead Sea shrinking every year?

4. The Mediterranean Sea is responsible for watering most of the coast of Israel daily. How is this
possible?

5. What are the two rainiest months of the year?

6. What months are the nicest months to visit Israel?

7. What does Passover commemorate?

8. Why does Israel celebrate Pentecost?

9. What is the significance of the Day of Atonement?
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