Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah dancing

The holidays create their own rhythm and in Jerusalem, the preponderance of very observant people creates a unique pulse. Businesses start to shut down around 3 pm the day before, traffic thins, buses stop running and quiet reigns. I am getting into walking the city on holidays and Shabbat because everything slows down.

We enjoyed a nice Hakafot service at Kol Haneshema on Erev Simchat Torah but the real action took place on Thursday evening. Virtually every synagogue hosts its own outdoor dance party, some with live music, some with DJs but always with the Torah Scroll as dance partner 'Eser'. (I felt for people who live near the synagogues because the music was so loud that it was blasting over the neighborhood.) There were also big parties in city squares with entertainment, food etc.  It's a relaxed holiday with a great vibe but there is a bit of an edge because people are preparing to face reality and 'back to work' after the long break.

Dance Partner 'Eres'

Sometimes of course, a boy just has to take a break from all of this religion business and chill out with friends.  (Which we did with the Israeli-Roths on Thursday).

Chillin