FEAST OR FAST 5785? Siyyum B’chorim – Fast of the First Born

FEAST OR FAST 5785?

Siyyum B’chorim – Fast of the First Born

Thursday, April 10, 7:45 – @9:00 AM

“Adonai passed over the houses of the children of Israel,”¹ and spared the first-born male Israelites when the first-born male Egyptians died during the last of the ten plagues. As a reminder of this event, the day before Pesach is observed as a fast day. Jewish law expects that adults and children who are the first-born child in their family fast from dawn until the first Seder.

The Rabbis permitted all first born to be exempt from fasting by participating in a special ceremony called a siyyum. A Siyyum marks the completion of the study of a unit of Jewish text, such as a tractate of the Talmud. The completion of a book of the rabbinic literature is a joyous occasion and is followed by a Seudat Mitzvah, a religious feast. Being present for the siyyum gives first born a reason for participating in the Seudat Mitzvah and are exempt from fasting the rest of the day.

Rabbi Eligberg will mark a siyyum following our daily morning Minyan. All those joining, even via Zoom, are invited to celebrate with breakfast. Parents are encouraged to have your first-born participate.  Remember to bring your Tallit and T’fillin for the service. Check the RST Webpage if you need a quick T’fillin refresher. https://www.rodefsholomtemple.org/learning/adult-education/fast-of-the-first-born-april-10th/

Let us know if you will join us for the siyyum and breakfast.

1. Exodus 12, Verse 12