Lag BaOmer

Lag BaOmer (Lag = 33) is the thirty-third day of the counting of the Omer. According to tradition, on this day the death of Rabbi Akiva's disciples ceased; they had died during the Omer period because they did not treat one another with respect. From this day onward, the mourning customs of the Omer period ended.

On this day also falls the hillula of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, author of the Zohar, who passed away on Lag BaOmer. According to tradition, on the day of his passing, Rabbi Shimon revealed secrets of the Torah to his disciples, and thus the day became one of joy and celebration of the hidden Torah. The public customarily visits his grave in Meron and lights bonfires.

• Lighting bonfires — in memory of the fire of Rabbi Shimon's Torah and the revelations he made on the day of his passing.
• Pilgrimage to Rabbi Shimon's grave in Meron — a great hillula.
• Joy and cessation of mourning — haircuts, weddings, and music are permitted.
• Archery games — in memory of Rabbi Akiva's disciples who were saved by the bow.
• Outdoor celebrations and nature outings.

Lag BaOmer is not a festival, and there is no prohibition of labor. On this day, the mourning customs of the Omer period cease (in most customs), and haircuts, weddings, and music are permitted. Tachanun is not recited on Lag BaOmer, and some do not recite penitential prayers.

There are no special prayers on Lag BaOmer, but Tachanun is not recited. Some recite Psalms and study Torah, especially from the Zohar. In Meron, a great hillula is held with the singing of Bar Yochai and piyyutim.