In our World Religion class, we take a little time at the beginning to learn about different holidays from various religions. Here are a few you may have missed.
Tuesday, September 27th was Meskel, a day that revolves around the story of Queen Eleni (also known as St. Helen) and her search for the true cross. Legend has it that she dreamt of a bonfire with smoke that would show the way to the spot where the cross that Jesus was crucified on was buried. On this day a fire is made to symbolize this and the ashes may be used to make a cross on practitioner's forheads.
Wednesday, September 28th was Navaratri Dusserha. In Hinduism, nine nights are used to celebrate different incarnations or avatars of the goddess Shakti. These include Durga the warrior, Lakshmi the giver, and Saraswati the wise. During this time special offerings of rice, flowers, and money can be left at temples.
Thursday, September 29th was Rosh Hashanah. This holiday begins the Jewish new year and actually began at sundown on Wednesday. It is a time of prayer and celebrating the creation of the world. It also begins the ten Days of Awe that culminate in Yom Kippur.
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