The 12 Months Of The Jewish Calendar

Introduction

The Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar that is used to determine the dates of Jewish holidays and observances. The calendar has 12 months, each with its unique significance and importance. In this article, we will explore the 12 months of the Jewish calendar and what each month represents.

The Months of the Jewish Calendar

Tishrei

Tishrei is the first month of the Jewish calendar and is the month in which Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is celebrated. It is a time of reflection and repentance, culminating in Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

Cheshvan

Cheshvan is the second month of the Jewish calendar and is known as the “bitter” month because it has no holidays or special observances. It is a time for quiet contemplation and introspection.

Kislev

Kislev is the third month of the Jewish calendar and is the month in which Hanukkah is celebrated. It is a time of joy and celebration, as we commemorate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple.

Tevet

Tevet is the fourth month of the Jewish calendar and is a time of mourning and remembrance, as we commemorate the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians and the destruction of the First Temple.

Shevat

Shevat is the fifth month of the Jewish calendar and is known as the month of the trees. It is a time of renewal and growth, as we plant trees and celebrate the beauty of nature.

Adar

Adar is the sixth month of the Jewish calendar and is the month in which Purim is celebrated. It is a time of joy and celebration, as we commemorate the salvation of the Jewish people from the evil plot of Haman.

Nisan

Nisan is the seventh month of the Jewish calendar and is the month in which Passover is celebrated. It is a time of freedom and renewal, as we commemorate the liberation of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt.

Iyar

Iyar is the eighth month of the Jewish calendar and is a time of healing and recovery, as we commemorate the miracle of the manna that sustained the Jewish people during their journey through the desert.

Sivan

Sivan is the ninth month of the Jewish calendar and is the month in which Shavuot is celebrated. It is a time of revelation and renewal, as we commemorate the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.

Tammuz

Tammuz is the tenth month of the Jewish calendar and is a time of mourning and remembrance, as we commemorate the breaching of the walls of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.

Av

Av is the eleventh month of the Jewish calendar and is a time of mourning and remembrance, as we commemorate the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem.

Elul

Elul is the twelfth month of the Jewish calendar and is a time of preparation and repentance, as we get ready for the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Question and Answer

Q: Why is the Jewish calendar a lunar calendar?

A: The Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar because the months are based on the cycles of the moon. The start of each month is determined by the appearance of the new moon.

Q: Why are there 12 months in the Jewish calendar?

A: The number 12 has special significance in Judaism, representing completeness and wholeness. The 12 months of the Jewish calendar correspond to the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 signs of the zodiac.

Q: Why do some months have holidays or special observances while others do not?

A: The Jewish calendar is designed to reflect the cycles of life, including times of joy and celebration as well as times of mourning and reflection. Some months have holidays or special observances associated with them, while others do not, to create a balanced and meaningful year.

Q: What is the significance of the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?

A: The High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time of reflection and repentance, as we seek to improve ourselves and our relationships with others. They are considered the most important holidays of the Jewish calendar.

Q: What is the meaning of the symbols associated with the Jewish holidays?

A: Many Jewish holidays are associated with specific symbols, such as the shofar on Rosh Hashanah, the menorah on Hanukkah, and the matzah on Passover. These symbols have deep spiritual and cultural significance and help to connect us to our heritage and traditions.