Bonfires and Lag B'omer

Written by Rabbi David Bockman

Friday, 15 May 2009 14:45

CJC religious school celebrates Lag B'omer (the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer between Passover and Shavuot) in a traditional manner by building and lighting a bonfire. Although the custom finds its origins with the mystical tradition connecting Lag B'Omer with the death of R' Shimon bar Yochai, the supposed author of the Book of Splendor (Zohar), a kabbalistic commentary to the Torah. Rather than mourn his loss, Jewish mystics celebrated the fulfillment of an outstanding life that ended with a revelation similar to that of the Torah, replete with whirling flames and flashes of light, represented by the bonfire. In modern Israel, the holiday is a favorite among teenagers, who stay up all night singing, dancing and roasting potatoes and onions in the embers. CJC students also roasted marshmallows for smores. A relaxing and delicious time was had by all.

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Last Updated on Friday, 15 May 2009 16:36