Jewish holidays

• Geschiedenis
• Middelbare school
• mavo
• Leerjaar 2

Judaism

1.2 Jewish holidays

What you can explain /  do after this lesson

• What  Hanuka is
• Why the Jews celebrate Hanuka
• Explain what the Pesach is
• Why we celebrate Easter 

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

From Abraham to a nation

• Abraham is considered the founding patriarch of the Jewish people
• His descendants settled in the land of Canaan, forming a growing community
• Over generations, this community developed into an early Israelite society
• The Israelites believed they had a special covenant (agreement) with God
• This covenant shaped their identity, laws, and connection to the land

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

The need for leadership

• As the Israelite population grew, maintaining order became difficult
• Tribal divisions and external threats created instability
• The society lacked strong centralized leadership

This led to increasing demand for a king who could:

1. Unite the tribes
2. Provide military protection
3. Establish laws and political stability

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

King David

• King David became one of the most important rulers in Jewish history
• He is remembered as the ideal king:

1. A strong political leader
2. A successful military commander
3. A deeply religious figure

David conquered the city of Jerusalem

• He made it the political and spiritual capital of Israel
• Jerusalem became the center of:

1. Government
2. Worship
3. National unity

The city still holds central importance in Judaism today

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

King David

• According to Jewish tradition, God made a covenant with King David
• God promised that:

1. David’s royal lineage would continue
2. His dynasty would endure forever

This promise strengthened the belief that David’s family had a divine right to rule

Jewish belief teaches that:

• A future Messiah will come
• This Messiah will be a descendant of King David

The Messiah is expected to:

1. Restore peace
2. Reunite the Jewish people
3. Establish justice and harmony

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

The Star of David

• The Star of David (Magen David) became a symbol of Jewish identity
• It is traditionally associated with:

1. King David
2. Protection
3. Jewish unity and faith

• Today, it is widely recognized as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish heritage

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

History of Hanuka

• The Jews had a very important Temple in Jerusalem > but the Seleucid stole it.  
  
• Torah was forbidden, circumcisions were reverted  and the temple was destroyed 
• Rebels chased the Seleucids away and started to rededicate the Temple 

• Relight the Menorah > lasted for eight days

• Eventually the Romans destroyed the Temple > Wailing Wall

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

Hanuka

• Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Light, usually celebrated around December
• It lasts for eight days
• Each day, one candle is lit on the menorah
• Celebrations include:
• Eating foods fried in oil
• Reciting blessings
• Singing songs
• Exchanging gifts
• Attending special religious services

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

Other traditions 

• The Kippah is worn by Jewish men as a sign of respect and humility before God
• Covering the head reminds believers that God is always above them
• In a synagogue (Jewish place of worship), wearing a Kippah is expected during prayer or religious services

The Talmud 

• The Talmud is a religious book, It contains collected teachings, discussions, and interpretations of Jewish law
• The text is based on questions and debates by rabbis
• It helps guide Jewish daily life, traditions, and religious practices

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

Poster portfolio

• For each religion you will have to make a poster with all the important information of that religion
• Each month you will hand in one of the posters
• All your posters combined will form your first grade for MSC (3x)
• The second grade is for a test
  
  

Judaism

1.1 History of Judaism

What needs to be on your poster?

I want you to answer the following questions:

• What is the god called?
• Who are important figures in this religion and why?
• What is the holy book of this religion?
• Which religious holidays are there and what do they celebrate on this holiday?
• In which countries can you find this religion?
• What is the tempel called and what does it look like?
• What is the most important belief within this religion?
• What are the rituals within this religion?
• What customs does this religion have in modern day life?
• What do you admire from this religion?

You will write a short essay answering these questions and using your answers you will need to make a poster.

On your poster you will show the most important information, accentuated by pictures, illustrations or drawings.