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Lag Ba'omer

 

On the 33th day of the Omer count, ie the 18th of the month of Yiar (this year on 12/05/2009), the sadness of the seven weeks preceding Shavuot are abstracted, and Lag Ba'Omer is commemorated.

pic1This holiday, refers to the revolt of Bar KOCHBA, the major effort of the Jews to reclaim their land. Emperor Adriano wanted to turn Jerusalem into a Roman city and rebuild the Temple to dedicate it to the pagan gods. The Jews remembered the times of Antioco and the heroic uprising of the Maccabees. New heroes emerged, determined to defeat the Romans and restore freedom to its people. Headed by Bar KOCHBA (the son of the star), the Jews succeeded in expelling the Romans of many cities, and even liberating Jerusalem. But Adriano sent a powerful army with great numerical superiority. Bar KOCHBA and his men gathered in the small town of Betar, near Jerusalem. They were killed, but showed a high degree of heroism and an inspiring example of sacrifice in the name of freedom.

Another event related to the festivity of Lag Ba'Omer involves Rabi Akiva and his disciples. On the 33th day of the Omer, he stopped the deadly epidemic that afflicted the sages and their students, since then, that day became a happy holiday.

Lag Ba'Omer date is also connected to the memory of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, legendary figure in Jewish mysticism. Before his death (which happened the day of Lag Ba'Omer) he asked his disciples that his death was remembered with celebration, and not with expressions of sadness. Rabi Shimon Ben Yochai is buried in Meron, near Safed, in Galilee. Jews from all over Israel come this day to Meron, to participate in dances and light candles next to his grave.

Throughout the country games are organized and bonfires are lit to celebrate the heroism of Bar KOCHBA and his followers. Countryside excursions are made, as well as practice shooting and use of bow and arrow, as did the heroic fighters of Bar KOCHBA against the enemy oppressor.
This day, despite being framed within the seven weeks of painful memories, is considered a day of celebration, and you can hold meetings and even weddings.

Written by Mordko and Rosinha Meyer