What’s the mitzvah of the day?

Dear Kehilla, 

It’s almost Shavuot!

Shavuot is a joyous Chag that celebrates the giving of the Torah and the culmination of counting 49 days from Pesach – the holiday of our freedom, until we reach Shavuot, the day that marks when G-d gave the Torah to the Jewish people.

We come to shule to hear the Ten Commandments and celebrate this Chag with family and community. 

One of the most beautiful and cherished parts of Judaism is Minhagim. Literally translated as traditions or customs. It refers to the traditions and customs that have developed over time to enhance our observance of Chagim and Mitzvot.

These customs were not originally obligated by the Torah law, but once a minhag takes root, it is very much part of Jewish law. 

What’s unique about Shavuot is the emphasis on Minhagim. While other Chagim have a biblical commandment that is unique to the day, Shavuot doesn’t really have any. 

On Rosh Hashana, we blow the shofar, on Yom Kippur, we fast, on Sukkot, we shake the Lulav and Etrog, and we eat in the Sukkah. And so it is with all of the Chagim.

Shavuot doesn’t have a unique Biblical commandment, besides the generic mitzvah on all Chagim to be joyous and rest from work. 

On Shavuot we have the opportunity to reflect on Minhagim and recognise its important role in Jewish life. 

Most of the well known ways to celebrate Shavuot are all “Minhagim.” 

Like for example the custom to have a dairy meal and dairy products, or to decorate the shule with flowers and greenery. Staying up all night (or most of it) learning, and so many others. 

These minhagim have enhanced the observance of Shavuot, and so it is with the other minhagim as well, whether they are daily weekly or only annually.

Looking forward to celebrating with you at Shule!

May you have a joyous and meaningful Shavuot.

Rabbi Zalman and Esty