This week, we’re celebrating Shavuot, one of the three major Jewish pilgrimage festivals (along with Passover and Sukkot). Shavuot falls exactly 7 weeks from the first day of Passover, marking the end of the Omer. Like many Jewish holidays, Shavuot has deep agricultural roots - but also like many other holidays, it isn’t just about a harvest. While Shavuot does align with Israel’s barley harvest, it’s also the time when we celebrate the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. So, if you're not planning on harvesting any barley on Thursday, how can you celebrate? By studying Torah, reading the Book of Ruth, and feasting on delicious treats made with dairy. Why dairy? According to one beautiful Rabbinic explanation, it may come from the Song of Songs, which suggests that the Torah is as nourishing as milk and as sweet as honey. 

Join with your Temple Judea community this Thursday evening at twilight, as we lean into the "milk and honey" theme with honey-infused, signature cocktails and delicious dairy treats with the clergy starting at 5pm in the courtyard, followed by a group Torah study and the traditional reading of Ruth. The evening is free, but space is limited, so make sure to secure your spot!