CULTURE CELEBRATE

Chanukah

8 DAYS

“Chah-nuu-kah” early-late December what to expect: the streets decorated with Hanukkah lights and festive decorations, and families and friends gathering to light the menorah, play games, and exchange gifts. Traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot are also enjoyed during the holiday.

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the re-dedication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after it was desecrated by the Greek Empire. The holiday is marked by the lighting of the menorah, a eight-branched candelabrum, over eight nights.

Celebrations

Hachnosas Sefer Torah

“Hach-no-sas Seifir Toe-Rah” what to expect: a procession of community members dancing and singing as they carry the new Torah scroll, adorned with ornate coverings and silver ornaments, through the streets. The procession is often led by a rabbi or other community leader, and members of the community are invited to participate in the joyous celebration. The dedication of a new Torah scroll is a significant event in the Jewish community, symbolizing the importance of the Torah as the foundation of Jewish life and learning.

A Hachnosas Sefer Torah is a joyous event in the Jewish community that celebrates the completion and dedication of a new Torah scroll.

Wedding

“Chah-suh-nah” what to expect: a large gathering of family and friends dressed in traditional Hasidic attire, including black suits and hats for the men and modest dresses and head coverings for the women. The wedding ceremony is usually held outside under a chuppah, a traditional canopy, and is presided over by a rabbi. After the ceremony, the celebration continues with food, music, and dancing.

A Hasidic wedding is a joyous and lively event in the Orthodox Jewish community, celebrating the creation of a new unit.

There are many festivities in the Jewish life, most centered around the circle of life, thanking God for new beginnings

Is customarily said by thse celebrations, such as by weddings, Birthdays, Babies, Anniversaries and engagements.

Traditional Hasidic communities adhere to strict gender roles, with men and women expected to adhere to different religious, social, and domestic duties.

Women are often responsible for maintaining the household, raising children, and being the emotional pillars of their home. Religion is dependant on the mother.

Men are generally encouraged to study Torah and religious texts and provide food, money and physical support to their families.

While gender roles are generally strict in Hasidic communities, there is also a sense of mutual respect and collaboration between men and women, with both genders contributing to the well-being and growth of the community as a whole.

FAQ:

Do Hasidic women have to cover their hair?

Yes, married Hasidic women typically cover their hair with a wig, hat, or scarf as a sign of modesty and respect for their husbands. A common myth however, is that many shave their heads. This is an example of a sensationalist rumor. While a small minority who are part of the strictest sect do, MAJORITY of women in Williamsburg do not shave their heads underneath their headcovering.

Are Hasidic women allowed to work outside the home?

Yes! Many hasidic women work outside their homes working in many different fields, such as medical billing, teachers, therapists, saleswomen, expediters, and entrepreneurs. At the same time, women are expected to prioritize their family and household duties and raise their family. There is a lot to learn from their work-life balance.

Judge Ruchie Frier is a highly respected figure in the Hasidic community and an advocate for women's rights within that community. She is known for her work as an acting New York Supreme Court judge , where she has gained a reputation for fairness, compassion, and dedication to the families she serves.

Are Hasidic women allowed to pursue higher education?

Education is highly valued in Hasidic communities, and women's education often focuses on practical skills such as cooking and homemaking, and academic pursuits. There are many Hasidic women who have pursued higher education and achieved success in their chosen fields. There are also many Jewish higher education accredited programs that make it possible to get a strong degree in almost every field while not compromising any beliefs or modesty issues.

Are the marriages forced or Arranged?

No! There is a very strict difference between an arranged marriage and an arranged meeting. In Hasidic culture, an arranged meeting is a process in which a matchmaker, often someone within the community or a family member, introduces a young man and woman who are both looking to get married. The matchmaker arranges for the couple to meet in a supervised setting, to see if they are compatible and interested in pursuing a relationship. If both the girl and boy like each other and feel a sexual pull, the matchmaker proceeds with the formal process of making arrangements for the marriage.