May 2026 Newsletter

That raises some interesting issues. In the Torah, Shavuot is treated as a major holy day, in some ways even more important than Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. But over time, its power has faded.

Chanukah, by contrast, doesn’t even exist in the Bible. It is a much more recent holiday and, in the view of the rabbis, it is not considered hugely important. It is actually viewed as a minor festival.

Yet in recent centuries, Chanukah has become something else: a popular, widely-known, important celebration and expression of Jewish identity and pride. Chanukah is observed in homes, synagogues, schools, and public spaces.

What explains this contrast between Shavuot and Chanukah?

Over the centuries, things have changed in Judaism. Holidays ebb and flow in relevance and importance. As our culture and worldview change, our practices also change. New times often produce new approaches to religion, and to community. It is important to remain grounded in our ancient traditions and values, but we must also be open to evolution, innovation, and even experimentation in our practices.

Shabbat is a great example. While one of the most ancient of Jewish observances, it has also changed enormously over time. There were no candles, no services, no challah, and no synagogues in antiquity. All of these practices are the result of the creativity of prior generations of Jews. And that is why we still observe it.

So this month, attend a Shabbat service. Sign up for a class at CBS. Learn about a holiday that you don’t know anything about. You will be enriched and enlightened. You will gain perspective. And you will solidify your bond with Napa’s Jewish community at a time when we need each other more than ever.