What do cheesecake and art have in common? They are both ways to celebrate the beginning of Shavuot tonight!
Shavuot has its origins in ancient grain harvest festivals, but has come to be associated primarily with the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Here are 4 ways to celebrate Shavuot from the comforts of your own home:
1. Devour Dairy
Shavuot is also known as the dairy holiday! Many Jews celebrate by eating cheesecake, and in Sephardic tradition, it's customary to eat foods infused with rosewater. Rosewater cheesecake anyone?
2. Learn Something New
Too tired to stay up all night learning or trek out to a nearby synagogue? No problem. Teach yourself something new at home! Read an interesting article, watch a documentary, or practice playing an instrument.
3. Do Something Creative
Shavuot is a holiday of revelation, and what better way to embrace the theme of revelation than by tapping into your creative juices! Paint a picture, bake something delicious, or write a creative short story.
4. Remember a Loved One
Historically, Shavuot was a time when Jews would come together in Jerusalem, and as part of their gathering, they'd say a blessing for those who had passed. You can honor this tradition by lighting a yahrzeit candle and saying a blessing for loved ones that you miss.