Festival of Weeks: The Giving of the Torah
Freedom is only the beginning — at Shavuot, we receive the wisdom that shapes our lives.
Shavuot, the Festival of Weeks, is one of the major Jewish pilgrimage festivals, celebrated seven weeks after Passover. At CSI, we embrace the deep spiritual significance of Shavuot as we commemorate the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Just as we journeyed from slavery to freedom at Passover, Shavuot marks the next step: receiving the Torah and taking on the sacred responsibilities of a free people guided by divine wisdom.
Our Shavuot observance includes a vibrant evening of learning (Tikkun Leil Shavuot), where we gather for a night of teaching, discussion, and reflection led by our clergy and community members. Together, we explore ancient texts and modern insights, continuing the tradition of embracing Torah anew with every generation. We also hold a joyful festival service, including the reading of the Ten Commandments, special prayers like Hallel, and the Yizkor memorial service to honor the memory of our loved ones.
Shavuot at CSI is a time of community celebration as well. We delight in traditional dairy foods, symbolizing the sweetness and richness of Torah. From festive meals to beautiful decorations evoking Mount Sinai in bloom, our community comes together to create an atmosphere of holiness, learning, and joy. Whether through study, prayer, or gathering around a shared table, we invite you to experience the timeless and inspiring spirit of Shavuot with us.
