Introduction: Celebrating and Living

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven"

Ecclesiastes 3:1, King James Version

Festivals play a central role in Judaism in terms of religion, history and shaping identity. Alongside the synagogue, Jews’ own homes with their own families are also an important place for observing (religious) traditions. Families come together to celebrate festivals, pray and read religious texts. No work is to be done on the Shabbat or biblical holidays. In the past, orthodox Jews would not kindle any fire on these days, and nowadays, activities such as cooking, telephone calls and watching television are avoided. The life cycle of a Jewish person, from birth to adulthood and from marriage to burial, is also accompanied by a multitude of religious rituals.