Brotherly Love

While Jews abroad celebrate an eighth day of Passover on Saturday night and Sunday, many Jews in Israel - especially those of Moroccan descent - will be celebrating the Mimouna. The Mimouna celebrations will begin with a festive meal Saturday night, with large families gathering together to enjoy singing, traditional foods, and spiritual nourishment for the coming months.

The festivities commemorate the hope and belief [Emunah, possibly related to Mimouna, according to some] that just as the Jewish People were redeemed on Passover, so too they will merit the Final Redemption "speedily in our days."Another explanation given for this day is that because of the stringencies against eating chametz on Passover, many people would not eat at each other's homes throughout the weeklong holiday. The Mimouna is therefore a chance to renew ties between families and neighbors, showing that the Jews are united in brotherly love.