There are always things I’m learning that I think I should have known a long time ago. One example is the way that the Hasidic Jews (ultra-orthodox) treat Christmas. Here’s a quote from a recent article on it in Haaretz.
On Christmas Eve, known in Jewish circles as Nitel Night, the klipot (shells) are in total control. The klipot are parasitical evil forces that attach themselves to the forces of good. According to kabbala (Jewish mysticism), on the night on which “that man” – a Jewish euphemism for Jesus – was born, not even a trace of holiness is present and the klipot exploit every act of holiness for their own purposes. For this reason, Nitel Night, from nightfall to midnight, is one of the few occasions when Hasidim refrain from Torah study. On this horrific night, they neither conduct weddings nor do they go to the mikveh (ritual bath).
The article goes on at more length and is an interesting read. I was alerted to this by the Caspari Center Media Review (current issue), which looks at the articles related to Christians and messianic Jews in the Israeli news media. This bi-monthly review is highly recommended. To subscribe to the Media Review, send a blank email to media@caspari.com. Be aware that the term “missionary” is used for anyone of the Christian faith, regardless of whether they are evangelizing, doing humanitarian work, or simply running a business.