So far this term, Year 5 and 6 have been exploring the important question: “How and why are Jewish festivals celebrated?” We have learnt about four significant Jewish festivals: Pesach (Passover), Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot.
Through our learning, we discovered the stories, traditions and beliefs behind each festival and considered why they are important to Jewish people today. We explored how Pesach remembers the Israelites’ freedom from slavery in Egypt, while Rosh Hashanah marks the Jewish New Year and is a time for reflection and new beginnings. We learnt about Yom Kippur, a special day of prayer, reflection and forgiveness, and Sukkot, when Jewish people remember the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness and give thanks for what they have.
We have enjoyed learning how festivals bring families and communities together and how religious beliefs are expressed through special foods, prayers, symbols and traditions. Our learning has helped us to develop a deeper understanding and respect for Jewish beliefs and practices.
