The Israel Ride attracts a wide cross-section of Jewish observance, and indeed some riders who are not Jewish. We strive to strike a balance that allows each rider to practice as they see fit, but to also experience other facets of Jewish tradition.

Shabbat | Daily Prayer | Kashrut

Shabbat

Shabbat, the Jewish sabbath, is an integral part of the Israel Ride and serves as a rest day after three days of cycling. Throughout Shabbat there are opportunities to relax, pray, swim, learn about Hazon and the Arava Institute, and to reunite with family who are welcome to join as guests for the weekend.

Shabbat begins at sundown on Friday, which occurs around 4:30 pm. We come together to mark the transition from the work week to the day of rest with candle lighting. The Israel Ride runs an egalitarian service (with mixed seating for men and women), and other options may be available depending on the needs of the group. Following services we come together for a festive Shabbat Dinner, which includes traditional songs and blessings over wine and bread.

On Saturday morning, we again organize an intimate Shabbat service, led by many of the riders. There will also be options to explore the area, practice some yoga, and other programming. In the afternoon, the alumni of the Arava Institute discuss their experiences living and learning together. Shabbat closes with Havdalah, a ceremony which we conduct outside  as the sun sets.

Daily Prayer

Depending on the make up of the Israel Ride community, we try to have daily prayer both in the morning and the evenings. Usually, we conduct a Shacharit service at the first rest stop, which is extended for breakfast. In the evenings after the daily briefing we will have Maariv. In general, these services are egalitarian with a traditional liturgy in Hebrew.

If possible, we try to schedule some prayer outdoors, taking advantage of natural beauty of our route.  We also try to have a weekday service that includes music, explanation, and meditation while giving those who prefer a traditional service space as well.

Kashrut

All hotels that we stay at throughout the Ride are kosher under the supervision of the Israeli Rabbinate. All food which is provided by the ride on the road is kosher as well.

The powered energy drink available in Israel which we use on the ride sometimes does not have kosher certification, but we bring some containers from the US which do. Each rest stop will have both types, clearly marked.