When was the last time you stayed up all night to:

• have a deeply meaningful conversation about your ultimate values?
• read or discuss a book that has had a life-changing effect on you?
• support a friend who really needed someone to talk to?

One of the fascinating customs of this holiday is tikkun leyl Shavuot - a Shavuot Nightwatch, a sign of our remembrance of the Divine gift of the Torah that Shavuot celebrates. The all-night vigil reminds us of the Biblical legend that the ancient Israelites were encamped at the foot of Mt. Sinai for three days and three nights in anticipation of the giving of the Torah.

In some synagogues, people gather to read and discuss Torah text all through the night.

Decorating with Flowers

In ancient times, Shavuot's roots as an agricultural festival were clearly seen. In our present era, we recognize this aspect of the holiday by bringing the outdoors inside on Shavuot. Synagogues and homes are decorated with greens, wheat, and flowers.

In Israel, florists enjoy increased business, and supermarkets and malls host special promotions on houseplants.

Schoolchildren wear wreaths and help decorate the house with the flowers and leaves they bring from school.

One of the other reasons for decorating with greenery on Shavuot is that it was said that when the Torah was given on Mount Sinai, the barren desert exploded with blooming flowers, as if the earth itself rejoiced.

Eating Dairy

Before the visit from God, Jews did not keep kosher or follow the Kashrut (dietary) laws. It was on this first Shavuot that they learned that their utensils were non-kosher and thus unfit for use. So, finding themselves without kosher meats or utensils, the Israelites were forced to eat only dairy foods. Today, Jews mark Shavuot by eating blintzes, cheesecake, and other dairy dishes.