Question:
I am going to my orthodox jewish aunt's house for the passover seder, what should I wear?
Sam
2007-04-01 10:33:35 UTC
I am not religious but my parents are christian and think I am christian, we are culturally jewish, I would like to make a good impression and be as respectful as I can to my orthodox jewish family but I don't really know anything about passover. What can I expect and what should I wear?
Eight answers:
baby_savvy
2007-04-01 11:22:49 UTC
According to Orthodox Judaism, there is no such thing as "half-Jewish" or "culturally Jewish". You either are or are not. Judaism goes through the mother, so if your mom is Jewish, your aunt's family will view you as being just as Jewish as they are, regardless of your upbringing.



I am sure your aunt knows your background, and will do her best to make sure you and your family feel comfortable. Here are some tips that will help you:



What to wear: A skirt and blouse or sweater that is not low cut. Your aunt will probably be wearing a skirt or dress that is long enough to cover her knees (even when sitting), sleeves long enough to cover her elbows (even when reaching up) and a neckline that covers her collarbone.



What to expect: The seder can get kind of long, and there is a lot that happens before the main meal. So make sure to get plenty of rest earlier in the day, and eat something before you go over. The point of many things in the seder is to prompt questions, so ASK whatever you want to!



Other things to know:

1. Many people like to bring "hostess gifts" when they visit, but this can get complicated for an Orthodox Jewish family, especially on Passover. I would say to either skip the gift, or drop off flowers on Monday BEFORE SUNSET.

2. Orthodox Jews do not use electronics on holidays, so you should turn you cell phone to silent before entering the house, and try to remember not to flip the light switches (like if you use their bathroom, leave the light on).

3. Orthodox Jews generally do not touch members of the opposite gender, so don't be insulted if your uncle does not hug you or shake your hand.



Hope you have a wonderful time! If you have more questions, please post them - I will try to be on the lookout for you! PS. Check out www.aish.com for lots of great background info on Judaism, Passover, and the Seder.
anonymous
2007-04-02 03:06:28 UTC
Since your aunt is Orthodox, you should wear a dress, preferably calf-length or longer. The neckline should be modest, and the sleeves should be at least three-quarter length.



If your aunt's home is very traditional, the men and women may be seated seperately. There will be one person leading the group through the seder (which just means "order"); just follow that person's lead, and you'll be fine. If you don't understand something, ask someone near you; I'm sure they'll be happy to explain.
guylookin4fun06
2007-04-01 17:38:24 UTC
If you are not Jewish why are you going to a Pesach Seder?

No offense but the mitzvahs associated with the Seder are only for Jews.

Culturally Jewish?

You are either Jewish or not. It is like being pregnant you are or you're not. There is no grey area.



Sorry to come off harsh but you statement that your parents are christians but culturally Jewish was a bit odd and offensive. From what you describe you are Jewish from birth because of your mother. It also seems that she wants to retain some of her Jewish identity and wants to share that with you. As far as proper dress goes you should do as the other posters describe (long darker skirt that at least covers the knee and may go to the ankle. Also the shirt has to cover the neck bone and elbows. So no short sleeves or low cut shirts.) Enjoy.
jewishanswers
2007-04-02 20:13:05 UTC
Hello,

I think your primary focus should be at this point your identity. According the way that you describe your family, you are 100% Jewish if your mother was born to a Jewish mother. It would be worthwhile for you to look into your Jewish heritage, and I will be glad to assist you in any way. You can contact me, with any questions which you may have.
anonymous
2007-04-01 19:35:30 UTC
If you are a women:

Then you should wear a shirt not too bright.Make sure that the arms are covered pass the elbow.And make sure you dont wear pants it is disrespectable.Wear a dress pass the shin or near the ankle.And if you are married then wear a big hat that will cover your head.



If you are a man:

You should wear a kippah or a hat so your head can be covered.You can wear a suit.And some dress shoes.
Rhymes with Camera
2007-04-01 21:39:08 UTC
I couldn't put it any better than baby_savvy's answer!



have fun and enjoy yourself, and the fact that you are concerned about wanting to be respectful will go a long way towards making the evening more enjoyable
jlk15
2007-04-01 18:04:13 UTC
If u are a boy, a suit, thats black, and wear a keepah there.

If u are a grl, then were a nice dress thats not to short and that is a darker color.

i am not orthodox, but i think that that is correct.
HEY.
2007-04-02 00:32:35 UTC
ask if its fancy and if she says yes then wear a nice floral skirt and a nice cami shirt(thin strap) with a cute shrug that ties



and if not then just cute jeans and a fancy top



trust me i am jewish and tomorow i am having one. have fun!!

U


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