The only mentions of a sukkah in the Cairo Genizah refer to communal sukkot in synagogue courtyards. A fact that caused quite a bit of trouble.
Revealed: How Hanukkah Was Celebrated a Thousand Years Ago
We collected a few greetings and well-wishes for the holiday that were found in the famous Cairo Genizah
A Receipt for Funds to Redeem Captives Signed by Maimonides
Did you know that Maimonides’ first public activity in Egypt was a large-scale mission to get Jews out of Crusader captivity?
What Can You Find in the World’s Oldest Yiddish Letter? Exactly What You Would Expect
Looking for proof that nothing ever changes? In this ancient letter a mother complains to her son that he doesn’t write to her often enough… Sound familiar?
You’re Going to Die and be Buried – So Better Do It in Style
Documents from the Cairo Genizah: How is one to be buried? And more importantly, what should one wear to the burial? Egyptian Jews had clear requirements on the matter.
A Parrot from India Recites ‘Shema Yisrael’ in Cairo
A particular parrot mentioned in a manuscript from the famous Cairo Genizah possessed an impressive knowledge of Jewish scripture!
Just How Literate Were Jewish Women of the Past? The Cairo Geniza Tells All
Boys in antiquity were taught to read and write – this we know. But were girls their brothers’ peers? What about their mothers?
