Five Things You Always Wanted to Know About
Strange and Unusual Jewish Customs

Judaism is viewed by most of us as a rational and non-superstitious religion, which is generally accurate. However, throughout the ages, Judaism has developed its share of unusual beliefs and customs. This class will explore five of them, some normative and others not so normative but nevertheless still a part of Jewish beliefs and practices. While this is a five-part series, each class is open whether you have been at previous ones or not.

November 16 Jewish Magic

We will look at the history of magic in Judaism, which is found in the Bible, Talmud and later Jewish literature, including "how to" magic manuals. Did you know that "abracadabra" has a Jewish source?

December 14 Angels, Demons and Dybbuks

Do Jews believe in spiritual beings that we cannot generally see? What is a dybbuk and how does it differ from a demon? Is there such a thing as a Jewish exorcism? Bonus: All who attend this class will be given ways to protect against a demon attack!

January 11 Jewish Weddings

Have you ever wondered why brides (and in Judaism, grooms) wear white? Why does a woman traditionally walk around the man? Why is it better to get married on a Wednesday? These questions, and much more about our wedding customs and their meaning.

February 8 Holiday Rituals (that you didn't realize were strange)

Each holiday has its unique traditions. However, many aren't what they seem to be. Why do we sound the shofar on Rosh Hashanah?  What is the origin of the lulav and etrog? Why do we shake them together? What will happen if you look at a cohein while they bless the people? What holiday foods are really meant to be unusual symbols?

March 15 Resurrection and Reincarnation

Do Jews even believe in life after death? Did Christianity take the idea of resurrection of the dead from Judaism? Is reincarnation a Jewish belief? If so, how is it supposed to occur?