The celebration of non-Jewish holidays by Jews is a topic dealt with at great length in the Talmud. But the discussion there is about pagans, and later Jewish authorities draw a clear distinction between the observances of pagans and those of righteous gentiles. Most Jewish opinion defines today’s non-Jews as righteous gentiles, not pagans.
Thanksgiving as an American holiday has its origin as a religious day of thankfulness. Originally it lasted for several days and was exclusively a time of prayer. In fact, many trace the early development of the holiday to Sukkot, the harvest festival in the Torah. Only in time did it evolve into a significant national day of feasting, reflecting the many blessings provided to us by our Creator.
American Jews have traditionally observed Thanksgiving, seeing it as a means of expressing pride in our national identity.
Since everything about Thanksgiving is consistent with Judaism, there is no basis for objecting to its observance on the grounds that it is a pagan or “Christian” holy day.
Thanksgiving is an opportunity for all Americans to express our joy at living in a land of such rich blessings. Any occasion to thank God for these gifts is timely.
A number of years ago, Abigail Van Buren offered a meaningful Thanksgiving prayer in one of her “Dear Abby” columns. You might want to use it at your holiday table this year:
“God in Heaven,
“We thank You for food and we remember those who are hungry.
“We thank You for health and we remember those who are sick.
“We thank You for friends and we remember those who are friendless.
“We thank You for freedom and we remember those who are enslaved.
“May these remembrances inspire us to serve those who are in need; that Your gifts to us may be used for others. Amen.”
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and may God bless you and your cherished loved ones.
Rabbi Harold F. Caminker, is rabbi of Temple Beth El, 4200 32nd Street West, Bradenton. Shabbat services are held 7:30 p.m. Fridays. For more information, call (941) 755-4900 or visit www.templebethelbradenton.com