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Traditional Jewish Dance

Traditional Jewish dance is a strong part of Jewish cultural heritage, dating back to biblical times. It used to be used as an integral part of religious ceremonies and rituals, and is still being developed in some sects today. Read our article on the various styles of traditional Jewish dance and how Jews have contributed to more modern and popular dance forms. And of course besides the art of dance, we all know about very interesting and peculiar Jewish cuisine.

History of traditional Jewish dance

Early in the history of Judaism, dance was used to express the various emotions of a group. Just as the modern church would lead the congregation in specific worship songs, Jews danced to express their joy, mourning, and any other emotion applicable to the time and event. Some of these dances continue to be tolerated today, such as their wedding reception, accompanied by the famous klezmer music.

Over the years, Jewish dances have been shaped and evolved, inspired both by the Jews themselves and by the pagan traditions they live by together. However, their own style and traditions have endured, including such moral rules that they have never danced with the opposite sex at formal events and functions.

There are many types of traditional Jewish dance, and a brief explanation of three prominent genres is provided below:

Israeli dance

Israeli dance is often considered a form of folk dance accompanied by music from Israel. They originally originated by creating a new culture in the ancient world, combining other forms of dance along with traditional steps. Israeli folk dance even includes ballet moves in some forms. New dances continue to be created and performed in different places as Israel first enjoyed independence and is often a signal of joy and celebration.

Hava Nagila.

As an Israeli dance, Hava Nagila is a Jewish folk song that means “let us rejoice.” Unlike many Jewish dances that focus on faith and liberation for one’s beliefs, Hava Nagila is actually quite popular in Jewish communities that have a less determined commitment to their roots. It’s a social, celebratory dance more than anything else.

Horah

Horah is a circular dance that is performed in many Jewish-ruled countries. It also comes from the Eastern European country of Romania and is often considered the popular head of all Jewish dances. Sometimes you will see the Hora at Jewish weddings, bar mitzvahs and other religious rituals and meet.

Jewish dance in ballet.

While you may not think of Jewish dance as part of ballet, it’s fair to say that Jews have contributed a great deal to this classic dance form. For example, the world-famous Russian ballets were created largely by Jewish dancers and choreographers. Jewish ballet greats such as Lincoln Kirstein also helped shape the School of American Ballet, which continues to thrive in New York City.

Jewish dance has such a rich culture and heritage; it permeates many dance circles around the world. Jews continue to create and influence dance in countless ways, as anyone who has the right to observe centuries of choreography and contemporary ideals in action, whether here in the United States or abroad at home, can see.