Shavua Tov Family and Friends | Shorashim - Israel with Israelis

Shavua Tov Family and Friends

By Gabe Rosen, Ilana Khatskelevich, Nikki Kabins, Becky Gilbert

On our first Shabbot in Israel, we got to sleep in until 9am. We are just starting to get used to the transition into Israeli time, so this extra time to sleep was lovely. For breakfast, most of us tried a Yemenite breakfast pastry called Jachnun. It was delicious!

After breakfast, we got together and played the speed dating game to get to know each other. It gave us time to meet each and get to know each person on the trip more individually. During our break before lunch, we all hung out, throwing around a frisbee or football, listening to music and playing with the dogs that were around the kibbutz. Many of us walked around exploring the kibbutz together. Some of us found a small garden with fresh fruit and an avocado tree. We also found a free outdoor gym. It was very cool to explore.

Before lunch, we had a group activity where we learned about this week's parsha "shavuah" and how it is still relevant today. Afterwards, we all enjoyed our first Shabbat lunch on the kibbutz. Many people tried cow tongue!

After lunch we talked about our Jewish identities and the case of Brother Daniel. He was a German Jew who converted to Christianity and then wanted his citizenship by the law of return. We all discussed the situation and voted on our opinions of this case before finding out what had actually happened. It was very interesting.

Then we separated into groups to discuss what we believe are important qualities and values to each of us as Jews. We also learned the national anthem, Hatikva, and a fun cheerful new song. Then we had more time to relax before Havdallah.

During Havdallah we stood in a circle and sang the prayers to close out our first Shabbat. After that we drove to Nahariya. On the bus, the Israeli participants taught us a few words of the day. At the mall we enjoyed exploring the new mall, shopping, and eating. After a long day of traveling, it was nice to have a rest day. 

WORD OF THE DAY:
פרגון- firgun : Say God things to someone else, compliment someone else. 

Shavua Tov family and friends!

Photo Credit: @gcmemento