Exploring Our Biblical Heritage

New Moon Sighting Affects Holiday Observances

Something that is new to me this year is learning about how the observances of some holidays depend on the sighting of the new moon. I am curious to learn more about this because there seem to be staunch supporters from both ends of the spectrum. Also, then, does the observance of Shabbat also depend upon the sighting of the new moon, counting every 7th day from the sighting (meaning it would sometimes fall upon a Tuesday according to the standard calender, or other day of the week)? This whole subject makes my mind swim! I've read up on both opposing POVs to some degree but that is only frustrating me more. Can anyone give me SCRIPTURAL backup for your reasons as to why you celebrate according to the rabbi's dates or according to the actual sighting of the new moon? Thanks!!!!

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Permalink Reply by Shalom2Uall on February 11, 2009 at 2:07am: Thank U Cindy, very well explained informative article, Is it ok if I share copy and paste this article and share this with others and on my facebook too? Please let me know. Thank U

Rebecca; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Jody on February 14, 2009 at 7:46pm: Shalom, Sorry it has been such a long time since I checked in. I did read Norman's articles. Lots of his ideas are based on suppositions not fact. He makes lots of false assumptions and then bases his knowlege on false foundation. Typical of Norman. Sorry......Very little truth there.

Anyway, I have broken a couple of ribs and had/have pleurasy. So now that I am attempting to return I see there is a lot to read to catch up. So I will be lurking and reading.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Jody on February 23, 2009 at 2:44pm: Shalom, As this moon cycle comes to its close, we will be waiting and watching to see when our new moon cycle will begin. This will be the 12th moon cycle. From its establishment we can then count the days to determine when Purim will be held. Now is a good time to start that "spring cleaning" which is simply a practice that grew from the tradition of preparation for Pesach. Since we will not know until the end of this 12th moon cycle whether or not the yearly cycle will be 12 or 13 moons long, we must be looking ahead in our preparations.; ▶ Reply to This