Shavuot (Hebrew: weeks) is a Jewish holiday observed 49 days after Passover, on the 6th of Sivan. It marks the giving of the Torah to Moses at Mount Sinai and also celebrates the spring wheat harvest. Traditions include all-night Torah study, synagogue services decorated with flowers and plants, and eating dairy foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Shavuot?

Shavuot falls on the 6th of Sivan, exactly 50 days (7 weeks) after the second day of Passover.

What does Shavuot celebrate?

Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Torah to Moses and the Israelites at Mount Sinai.

Why do Jews eat dairy on Shavuot?

One explanation is that before receiving the Torah's dietary laws, the Israelites had not yet set up separate meat and dairy utensils, so they ate dairy foods.

What is the tradition of staying up all night on Shavuot?

Many Jewish communities study Torah through the entire night of Shavuot (Tikkun Leil Shavuot), preparing spiritually to receive the Torah again.