Archive for 2018
Yossi Gamzu: The Kotel (The Western Wall)
Written by Israeli lyricist Yossi Gamzu and performed by Israeli singer Ofra Haza, the song HaKotel conveys the significance of the Western Wall by the stories of three people who pray there: a young girl,
Yaakov Shwekey at the Western Wall on Jerusalem Day
This video presents snippets from the concert of the well-known Jewish musical entertainer, Yaakov Shwekey, at the Western Wall on Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day) in 2017. The Jerusalem Flag Parade takes place every year on
Miri Israeli: HaKotel (The Western Wall)
Written by American-born Israeli artist, Miri Israeli, this emotive song describes the Western Wall as a place where one can come for sincere prayer that will raise to the heavens. Although the lyrics
Who By Fire: A Poem of Doubt and Return
This poem by non-traditional rabbi and spiritual seeker, Rabbi Patrick A. Beaulier, explores many of the intense themes of Rosh Hashanah through a piece based on the liturgical prayer, Unetaneh Tokef. This poem was shared on Ritualwell.org, a project
An Alternative Avinu Malkeinu: Our Parent, Our Sovereign
Written by Rabbi Burt Jacobson of the Jewish Renewal movement, this alternative version of the liturgical prayer, Avinu Malkeinu, refers to God not only as our Father and King, but also our Mother and Queen,
An Israel-Focused High Holiday Lesson Plan
This thorough lesson plan aims to help students “taste” the ethnic diversity of the Jewish communities in Israel, experience the immense weight and meaning of the Yom Kippur War in Israeli society, and gain
A Mikveh Immersion Ceremony for Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur
This post provides the outline and texts for a mikveh immersion ceremony to spiritually prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. With guiding questions, kavanot (intentions), and Hebrew and English blessings, this ceremony
Kesher V’Gesher: A Prayer for Rosh Hashanah
This poem by Trisha Arlin describes the intensity of the process of repentance and growth of the High Holiday season, focusing on the power of Jewish liturgy and community in transforming these days into ones of joy
Shofar Meditations for the Days of Awe
This post offers two guided meditations based on the imagery and spiritual power of the shofar. Designed for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur by Ariel Neshama Lee, these healing meditations encourage one to release
A Rosh Hashanah Website for Children
This link will take you to an entire website dedicated to teaching children about the Jewish New Year in a fun and interactive way. With holiday guides, videos, recipes, stories, games, and arts and crafts