The “hora” or Jewish circle dance is a very iconic Jewish dance performed at Simchas ( celebrations) such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs & weddings. The hora is a circle dance and the song that accompanies it is called “Hava Nagila”. At weddings the bride and groom are hoisted on chairs and people dance around them. It is a very cheerful and upbeat dance. The song “Hava Nagila” is a Hebrew song that is closely tied to the Zionist revival of Hebrew as a spoken language. “Hava Negila” has a fast tempo and is very repetitive
The “hora” and “Hava Negilah” have become the prototypical Jewish thing to do at a Jewish wedding. It is even mentioned in a Sex and City episode (Season 6 clip, “Anthony’s Wedding Advice”). They are part of the way people view Jews but I dont think they have become a part of Western culture as a whole. I believe they are still ethnic Jewish customs.
My father is Jewish and my mother is Catholic, so growing up I was able to experience both religions. Usually children follow their mother’s religion, so I was raised predominately Catholic. I have been to Temple only once in my life. It is interesting to read about aspects of my father’s religion because I do not get to fully experience it.
Hi, I found your blog interesting to read as I was raised in a Catholic household and I never knew the meaning of the “hora” up until now, as it is popular now a days in weddings. I always believed people dancing within a circle was just done for entertainment, however I never would have thought that it was known as a traditional dance. I also do believe that the dance has a fast tempo. I am glad to have read your blog as of now, since I know the true meaning of the traditional “hora” dance.