Introduction to Jewish Holidays

Learn all about the Jewish Holidays in this special mini-course, covering Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, Simhat Torah, Hanukkah, Purim, Passover, Shavuot, and Tishah B'Av.

This Jewish Holidays 101 course covers all the basics of the Jewish holidays, with sources, history, theology, practice, and belief in video lessons by Rabbi Steven Schwarzman, CEO of Judaism Online.

You'll learn all the basics of the Jewish holidays, how they're observed, and what is special about each one in the annual cycle. Plus you'll hear and see videos and songs that help illustrate the lessons.

This mini-course on Jewish holidays is taken from our comprehensive introduction to Judaism course, and is based on years of teaching in-person and online. If you're a Jewish adult who wants to learn what you didn't get in or out of Hebrew school, or if you're not currently Jewish but are exploring conversion to Judaism, or if you're not Jewish, but just want to learn about Judaism, this course on the Jewish holidays is for you.

Start learning today!

Hi, I'm Rabbi Steven Schwarzman, and I'm here to teach you about the basics of Judaism. I created Judaism Online to help people learn about Judaism wherever they are, on their own (busy) schedules.

I've served synagogues in the US and Canada, and now live in Jerusalem. I was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York in 2008.

Before that, I worked as a writer and translator, including 14 years as a trainer for a leading Israeli tech company, and I've published four books.

Judaism Online is your resource for learning about Judaism with online learning, discussion in our community, and one-on-one consultations with me. Welcome!

The lessons in our Introduction to Judaism course (from which these Jewish Holiday lessons are taken) are designed for non-Jews who want to learn about Judaism and for Jews who want to learn what they didn't as kids. I really try to explain things clearly, without assuming prior knowledge, because everyone is a beginner sometimes. I want you to feel super-comfortable in learning, because that's how good learning happens.

I think you'll enjoy this course. And you can go as fast or as slow as you like, on your own time and at your own pace, because everyone is busy these days. Welcome to Judaism Online!

Start learning today!

A video message from Rabbi Steven Schwarzman, CEO of Judaism Online

FAQs

Can I take the Introduction to Judaism course if I'm not Jewish?

Yes. This course is designed both for non-Jews who want to learn about Judaism and for Jews who, well, want to do the same!

Can I convert to Judaism after taking this Introduction to Judaism course?

As a Conservative rabbi, I don't do online conversions. So just taking this course isn't enough to make you Jewish. You also need to be part of a Jewish community and begin living what you learn in this course.

That said, I designed this course with conversion students in mind (along with Jews who want to learn what they didn't get as kids). This Introduction to Judaism course is thorough and covers what you need to know to begin your life as a Jew. (I say "begin", because being Jewish means lifelong learning - we never stop!)

So, connect with a nearby synagogue, and show them what you're learning here, and you should be good to continue your practical learning with any Conservative or Reform synagogue/temple. (I'm a rather traditional Conservative rabbi, and Orthodox rabbis who have seen what my converts have learned have been impressed, but Orthodox rabbis will likely have specific additional requirements for you to meet.) I'm also happy to be in touch with your local rabbi to answer any questions.

What's it like to take this Introduction to Judaism course?

First of all, interesting! (And even fun.) I've been teaching for a long time, and I love working with my students.

I designed the Introduction to Judaism course to be both comprehensive and accessible. As an intro course, it's like a survey course you may have taken in college - an initial exploration of each subject.

Your Jewish learning doesn't stop with the Introduction to Judaism course - that's just where it begins. You can and should continue your Jewish learning with the more detailed courses we offer.

Are there exams? Do I have to finish by a certain date? Is there homework?

No, no, and no. You can go at your own pace, and there are no deadlines. As for homework, I'll suggest background readings, but there are no assignments per se.

Can I get more information?

Yes! Just click on the orange button below.

You can start learning today!

Take the first step to learn about the Jewish Holidays. Sign up for our online Jewish Holidays course.

Start learning about Judaism at your own pace, wherever you are.

Intro to Jewish Holidays Course

$299

Start learning now!