Rabbi Julian Sinclair

Pilgrimage to Jerusalem

Aliyah l'regel, literally ascent on foot, was a central practice of Judaism almost from its origins.

Blessing over a good wine

If a different wine is brought to the table that is better than the one you had been drinking until that point, then one says a special berachah.

Separating the Challah

Dancing on Simchat Torah

Dancing with the Torah scrolls on Simchat Torah is a surprisingly recent custom.

Eating before Yom Kippur

We do not want to arrive at shul for Kol Nidre feeling over-full, complacent or arrogant.

Visiting cemeteries

Many people have the custom to visit the graves of their parents before Rosh Hashanah.

Annulling vows

Kol Nidre, the prayer we say on Yom Kippur eve pleading for release from vows, is very famous.

Asking for forgiveness

Another essential Jewish practice associated with this time of the year.

Saying Selichot

The words that the Jewish people should use wherever they wished to pray for forgiveness.

Blowing the shofar in Ellul

Fixing a mezuzah

Eating meat on shabbat

Should observant Jews be vegetarians?