Lag BaOmer Begins

Lag B'Omer History

Lag BaOmer symbolizes joy and spiritual redemption, honouring the memory of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, a revered Talmudic sage. This spiritual figure is attributed with authoring the central Kabbalistic work, Zohar. The festivities often involve lighting bonfires, participating in parades, and singing songs, capturing a sense of hope, spiritual freedom, and communal unity.

Historically, Lag BaOmer marks the halting of a devastating plague that claimed the lives of many of Rabbi Akiva's students. On Lag BaOmer, the plague ceased, and mourning gave way to celebration. For Canadians who celebrate, the day links back to their ancestral Jewish roots and fosters a sense of shared history and unity among the diaspora. The lessons of resilience and communal support implicit in Lag BaOmer have particular relevance for Canadians, who often face challenges brought about by harsh winters and wide geographical distances.

In Canada, Lag BaOmer is marked by similar celebratory events like bonfires and parades, following the varied traditions Jewish communities have developed worldwide. They also incorporate local elements by involving public spaces like parks and community centers. Traditional Jewish songs resonate, and the aroma of festive food fills the air. It is celebrated throughout Canada, from Toronto's vibrant Jewish community to smaller gatherings in cities like Vancouver and Montreal. Lag BaOmer still falls on the 33rd day of the Omer count, which varies between late April and early May, depending on the year.

Lag BaOmer Begins facts

• Lag B'Omer is celebrated as the day that Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai died. Simeon bar Yochai, also known as Rashbi, was a famous 1st-century sage in ancient Israel. As one of the most eminent disciples of Rabbi Akiva, he was active after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. The day he died is celebrated as an anniversary or Hillula. common custom is to light a bonfire on the eve of Lag B'Omer and to celebrate with music and dance.
• The Omer period, is considered a period of mourning for the pupils of Rabbi Akiva. According to tradition, they died because they did not show each other enough respect. During the Omer no weddings are held and it is customary not to have haircuts, nor to buy new clothes or shoes.
• The Chabad-Lubavitch community, a major Orthodox Jewish movement in Canada, often organizes large events to observe Lag BaOmer. This includes bonfires which are a significant element of the Lag BaOmer commemoration.
• Lag BaOmer is also associated with the end of a divine-sent plague which killed thousands of Rabbi Akiva's students. Hence, it is a symbol of joy and relief, and many Jewish Canadians celebrate this aspect of the festival with great enthusiasm.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Lag BaOmer Begins

Top things to do in Canada for Lag B'Omer

• Attend a Lag B'Omer Bonfire party which are popular at many Jewish communities.
• Attend a Jewish Wedding. Lag B'Omer is a day on which many Jewish weddings are performed as the previous month had no such events.
• Attend the Lag BaOmer celebration in Calgary with bonfire lighting, live music, and games.
• Visit the Lag BaOmer festival in Toronto, which features a bonfire, live music, and children's activities