What Jewish Holiday is Thursday?
Thursday, a common weekday in the Gregorian calendar, holds a special significance in the Jewish tradition. While it may not be one of the major Jewish holidays, it is associated with a lesser-known celebration known as Shabbat Shekalim. This holiday marks the beginning of the counting of the Omer, a period of 49 days that leads up to Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks. In this article, we will explore the origins, customs, and significance of Shabbat Shekalim, the Jewish holiday that falls on Thursday.
Shabbat Shekalim is observed on the first Thursday of Adar, which is the eleventh month of the Jewish calendar. The holiday is named after the shekalim, which were small silver coins collected by the Jewish people to support the maintenance of the Temple in Jerusalem. The tradition of collecting shekalim dates back to the time of the Second Temple, and it is believed that this practice was implemented to ensure the Temple’s proper functioning and to provide for the needs of the kohanim, the Jewish priests.
On Shabbat Shekalim, Jewish communities gather for special synagogue services that include the reading of the Torah portion that discusses the collection of shekalim. The haftarah, or prophetic reading, for Shabbat Shekalim is from the Book of Ezekiel, which speaks about the dedication of the Temple and the responsibilities of the kohanim.
One of the customs associated with Shabbat Shekalim is the recitation of the “Shekalim” prayer, which is included in the Amidah, the central prayer of Jewish worship. This prayer asks God to remember the shekalim that were collected in the past and to ensure that the Jewish people continue to fulfill their obligations to support the Temple and its activities.
Another custom is the lighting of candles on Thursday evening, just like on other Shabbats. The Shabbat Shekalim candles are lit to symbolize the light of the Temple and to remind the Jewish people of their connection to the past and their commitment to the future.
Shabbat Shekalim also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the collective responsibility of the Jewish people. The collection of shekalim was a communal effort, and the holiday encourages individuals to think about their role in supporting the Jewish community and its institutions.
In conclusion, while Thursday may not be a widely recognized Jewish holiday, Shabbat Shekalim holds a significant place in the Jewish tradition. It serves as a reminder of the past, a celebration of community, and an opportunity for reflection on the responsibilities of the Jewish people. As we observe this holiday, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of the Temple and the importance of unity and support within the Jewish community.
