Shabbat | Shorashim - Israel with Israelis

Shabbat

Eryn Morgenlander

For many of us, this was the first traditional Shabbat we have ever celebrated.

We took the day to rest, enjoy each other's company, and have meaningful conversations about Judaism.  

We had the afternoon to spend time being outside, whether it was doing yoga, playing games in the Sea of Galilee, or getting some sun. It was a great day spent with each other and we really got to know one another better, while having with little to no technology as a distraction. 

One of the most intriguing parts of the day was in the afternoon when we discussed the always debated question of: what does it mean to be a Jew?

For a lot of members of the groups it was the first time in a long time (or ever) that they had this conversation with a group of 50 Jews.

Regardless of everyone individually believing they were Jewish, there were so many opinions and different ideas on why. After a long group discussion we broke into smaller groups to have more intimate discussion. We finished the day off with a makeshift Havdallah service and a 10 minute walk to dinner.