From lighting menorahs to anointing kings and high priests, olive oil has held special significance in Jewish life. An olive branch, a well-known symbol of peace, was brought to Noah after the flood and today is part of the national emblem for the State of Israel.
As our year-long exploration of the seven species of Israel continues, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of olives in Judaism following an abbreviated Shabbat service on Friday, January 26 at 7 p.m. and celebrate the new olive tree mural in the hallway to the Madge Rothschild Resource Center.
We also will welcome special guest Lori Berndt, owner of The Olive Twist, who will share her knowledge of olive oil and provide tastes of about a dozen varieties. A festive Oneg Shabbat will follow, featuring – what else! – olives and olive oil cakes made by the Temple’s Adult Education Committee.
Thank you to the Dr. Harry W. Salon Foundation for its support of the Seven Species Series.
What are the Seven Species?