The Five Megillot (The Five Scrolls)

Q

What Jewish holiday is each of the five scrolls (Song of Songs, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther) associated with?

A

Each of the five scrolls in the Hebrew Bible, which are also known as the Megillot, is associated with a specific Jewish holiday or occasion when it is traditionally read in synagogue. Here's a list of the scrolls and their associated holidays:

  • Song of Songs (Shir HaShirim): This poetic book is traditionally read on the Sabbath during the Passover holiday (Pesach). It is often associated with the celebration of spring and the Exodus from Egypt.

  • Ruth (Ruth): The Book of Ruth is read on the holiday of Shavuot, which commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Ruth's story is seen as an example of dedication to the Jewish faith and the acceptance of the Torah.

  • Lamentations (Eichah): Lamentations is read on Tisha B'Av, a day of mourning that commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, as well as other tragedies in Jewish history. The book's themes of lament and sorrow are fitting for this solemn occasion.

  • Ecclesiastes (Kohelet): Ecclesiastes is read during the holiday of Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths. The book's reflections on the fleeting nature of life and the pursuit of meaning are appropriate for the holiday's themes of joy and reflection.

  • Esther (Megillat Esther): The Book of Esther is read on the holiday of Purim, which celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people from the plot of Haman in ancient Persia. It is a festive holiday marked by joy, costumes, and the reading of the Megillah (scroll) of Esther.

These scrolls are an integral part of Jewish tradition and are read during their respective holidays to help commemorate and reflect upon the events and themes associated with each occasion.

(Answered by chat.openai.com)