AY Honor Jewish Festivals Requirements
Skill Level
1
Year
2025
Version
04.09.2025
Approval authority
Australian Union
1. Define what a Jewish festival is. List at least five Jewish festivals mentioned in the Bible and explain their significance. (Examples could include: Passover, Shavuot, Sukkot, Yom Kippur, Purim.)
2. Research and present (individually or in a group) on one Jewish festival of your choice, including:
- The origin of the festival
- How it is celebrated in different cultures or Jewish communities
- Key symbols or traditions associated with it
Presentation may be verbal, visual, or creative (e.g., slideshow, poster, video, or skit).
3. Interview a Jewish person, rabbi, or scholar about their experience with a Jewish festival. Record their thoughts on:
- The personal or communal meaning of the festival
- How it has been preserved or adapted through history
Alternative option: If an interview is not possible, watch an educational video or documentary on a Jewish festival (e.g., Passover, Hanukkah, Purim). Summarise:
- The key elements of the festival shown in the video
- How the festival is celebrated and its importance in Jewish life
Optional extension: Arrange a visit to a local synagogue, ideally during a Sabbath service or festival celebration (with permission).
4. Choose one Jewish festival and experience a related activity:
- For Passover (Pesach): Make (or taste) matzah and learn about the Passover Seder
- For Hanukkah: Create a dreidel and learn how to play the game
- For Sukkot: Build a small model or drawing of a sukkah
- For Purim: Make and share Hamantaschen (traditional Purim cookies)
- For another festival of your choice: Create an appropriate hands-on activity
5. Discuss as a group or write a reflection on how Jewish festivals help preserve faith, heritage, and community connections. This may be shared in a written paragraph, spoken reflection, small group discussion, or creative format (e.g., visual diagram or group mural).
6. Explore how Jewish festivals have influenced modern celebrations or broader cultural practices.
- Provide at least two examples of this influence
- Discuss how some traditions have evolved over time (e.g., adaptations in diaspora communities, modern reinterpretations, or influence on Christian holidays).
