BimBamWhat is Hasidic Judaism? Watch our new explainer video to learn the history of the Hasidic movement, from the Ba’al Shem Tov to creating an distinct community of mystical and observant Jews.
The Hasidic movement was formed in the mid 1800s by Jewish mystics in Eastern Europe, most notably the Ba’al Shem Tov, who was a traveled Kabbalistic, providing spiritual advice to those he met. He introduced mystic rituals where everything became spiritual. His students (i.e. Dov Ber) would later create the movement of Hasidism. But many Jews at that time were opposed to this new emerging movement. The Hasids were prayer enthusiasts. When they prayed, they would jump, clap, somersault, and even cry.
Despite opposition, the Hasidim continued to grow, engulfing most of Eastern Europe. They became part of the community, by serving as spiritual advisers, koshering meats, attending to the ill and deceased, and more. They continued to thrive until the persecution of Jews in the Soviet Union and World War II either killed them or drove them to seek refuge elsewhere. Some Hasids that escaped, traveled to America and began the rival of the movement which we see today most prominently on the streets of Brooklyn, New York.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.
What is Hasidic Judaism? A Brief History of the MovementBimBam2018-11-08 | What is Hasidic Judaism? Watch our new explainer video to learn the history of the Hasidic movement, from the Ba’al Shem Tov to creating an distinct community of mystical and observant Jews.
The Hasidic movement was formed in the mid 1800s by Jewish mystics in Eastern Europe, most notably the Ba’al Shem Tov, who was a traveled Kabbalistic, providing spiritual advice to those he met. He introduced mystic rituals where everything became spiritual. His students (i.e. Dov Ber) would later create the movement of Hasidism. But many Jews at that time were opposed to this new emerging movement. The Hasids were prayer enthusiasts. When they prayed, they would jump, clap, somersault, and even cry.
Despite opposition, the Hasidim continued to grow, engulfing most of Eastern Europe. They became part of the community, by serving as spiritual advisers, koshering meats, attending to the ill and deceased, and more. They continued to thrive until the persecution of Jews in the Soviet Union and World War II either killed them or drove them to seek refuge elsewhere. Some Hasids that escaped, traveled to America and began the rival of the movement which we see today most prominently on the streets of Brooklyn, New York.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.King David: Part 4 - David Becomes KingBimBam2019-03-28 | David is King – but is he still the warrior that so many admired? The man that Michal married years ago? He’s fixated on waging a war to take over Jerusalem and build a Temple…and God has something to say about that. Enjoy the final episode of our King David series and explore hundreds of more Hebrew Bible stories on this Youtube channel, from Genesis to Psalms.
Sodom was a town filled with wicked people who drank too much, got into mischief and who knows what else. G-d didn't like it and planned to destroy the city and everyone in it. But then, Abraham decided to try to bargain with G-d to save his beloved nephew, Lot. Find out what happens in this parsha video featuring "Unorthodox" podcast host Mark Oppenheimer.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.King David: Husband - Part 3 - David and MichalBimBam2019-03-28 | David has defeated Goliath and now the Israelites can’t stop talking about him. But King Saul isn’t too pleased and devises a plan to try to get him killed. Trying to save David, Michal tells her father that she loves David and King Saul allows them to marry only after David defeats more Philistines.
Enjoy the third episode of our King David four-part series and see what happens next. Will King Saul kill David? How is David as a husband? Will David ever become King?
Sodom was a town filled with wicked people who drank too much, got into mischief and who knows what else. G-d didn't like it and planned to destroy the city and everyone in it. But then, Abraham decided to try to bargain with G-d to save his beloved nephew, Lot. Find out what happens in this parsha video featuring "Unorthodox" podcast host Mark Oppenheimer.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.King David: Warrior - Part 2 - David and GoliathBimBam2019-03-28 | David has made his way to the front lines of King Saul’s battle against the Philistines. He might look scrawny next to the other soldiers but God is on his side when it comes to defeating Goliath. This is the second episode in our four-part animated King David series.
Sodom was a town filled with wicked people who drank too much, got into mischief and who knows what else. G-d didn't like it and planned to destroy the city and everyone in it. But then, Abraham decided to try to bargain with G-d to save his beloved nephew, Lot. Find out what happens in this parsha video featuring "Unorthodox" podcast host Mark Oppenheimer.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.King David: Shepherd - Part 1 of the Animated Bible SeriesBimBam2019-03-28 | David is just a simple shepherd when the Prophet Samuel clues him in that he’ll become the next King of Israel. Meanwhile King Saul is having a pretty tough time with evil spirits and Philistines. Does David have what it takes to be King? Will he help defeat the Philistines? Part One in our four-part animated King David series.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s 450 animated videos and other digital content now are under the auspices of the Union of Reform Judaism and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Bar Kochba: The Worst Jewish Hero EverBimBam2019-03-27 | The Bar Kochba Revolt was a Jewish rebellion, led by Simon bar Kochba, against the Roman Empire that ultimately failed. Watch our explainer video to learn more about this important piece of Jewish history and how provides a lenses into contemporary Israel.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is Masada? A Window into Modern IsraelBimBam2019-03-27 | Masada is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel but it has a very dark past. Watch our animated explainer video to learn the brief Jewish history of this large ancient fortress and how its story has changed over time.
Masada is the hilltop site where a splinter group of Jewish zealots held out against the Romans for three years, a final act of rebellion after the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 CE. Eventually, the Romans built a giant ramp and took the location over. Rather than submitting, these 960 people committed suicide as one last act of rebellion.
For more information, here's a scholarly article by Theodore Sasson and Shaul Kelner that greatly influenced the thoughts in this piece: https://www.brandeis.edu/cmjs/pdfs/masada051908.pdf
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Shemini featuring Rabbi Dan HorwitzBimBam2019-03-26 | In this week's Torah portion, we find Aaron having the worst day ever. His sons were killed and his other sons were scolded. Perhaps due to shock or something else Aaron remained silent.
Watch this animated interpretation to of Parshat Shemini to learn more featuring Rabbi Dan Horwitz, Founding Director of The Well.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s 450 animated videos and other digital content now are under the auspices of the Union of Reform Judaism and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Burial vs. Cremation: A Jewish PerspectiveBimBam2019-03-25 | In Judaism, ground burial is generally accepted as the only way to respect someone after they die. However, more and more people both within and without Judaism are choosing cremation. This video takes a look at some of the ways to address this issue and how each of us can make the choice that's right for them.
To learn more about Jewish mourning practices, please check out our YouTube playlist on the topic.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.How did Kabbalah Begin? Brief History of Jewish MysticismBimBam2019-03-14 | Some say Kabbalah goes all the way back to the beginning of time. Others say the first century. Here, we present a historical viewpoint of it going back to the thirteenth century in northern Spain, and how its influence has continued to shape Judaism today.
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ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Watch something Jewish at https://www.bimbam.com. Facebook: facebook.com/heybimbam Twitter: twitter.com/heybimbam
SUPPORT US We are a nonprofit organization and would love your support to continue creating engaging and educational content. If you like our videos support us here: bimbam.com/donateHow to Talk to Your Kids About DeathBimBam2019-03-10 | It’s never easy to tell your child when a loved one has died. Watch this video to get some advice on how to talk to your kids about death featuring chaplain Laura Fitch and parent, Alana Kadden Ballon.
Below are some of the advice Laura and Alana share:
Use simple, clear words Find a supportive team for yourself Make time for yourself to process Create a space to share emotions and feelings Tell you child what to expect Talk about funeral and rituals Help your child remember and honor the loved one
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Vayikra featuring Judaism UnboundBimBam2019-03-10 | What does burnt toast have to do with Parshat Vayikra? Watch this animated interpretation featuring Judaism Unbound hosts Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg as they talk about all the burnt offerings and sacrifices the Israelites used to make.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Pekudei: The CloudBimBam2019-03-06 | The Cloud is a personal take on Parashat Pekudei, which described the completion of the tabernacle and all its components, and the cloud of Devine presence leading the Israelites through their journey in the desert.
A collaboration between the artists Lydia Greer and Hadassa Goldvicht, The Cloud tells a personal coming of age story of a father and daughter learning the book of Exodus together, and the contemporary presence of the tabernacle and divide guidance within their lives.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Who Was Og? The Oldest Giant in the TorahBimBam2019-03-05 | Before the Israelites can get into the land of Israel, they must fight Og, a king who just so happens to be a really old giant. Watch this animated video to learn more about Og and how G-d helped the Israelites defeat him.
This video was created in partnership with Hadar and is inspired by the Standards for Fluency in Jewish Text and Practice. The fluency standards, a joint project of Hadar and Beit Rabban Day School, are a ground-breaking educational resource that articulates a vision of Jewish fluency and understanding. To learn more about the fluency standards, visit hadar.org/fluency-standards
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Who Was Miriam in the Torah? Intro to the ProphetessBimBam2019-03-05 | Who was Miriam? What was her story? Learn about one of the Torah’s most prominent female leaders and how being a leader isn’t always about getting things right but about loving your people and doing the best you can.
This video was created in partnership with Hadar and is inspired by the Standards for Fluency in Jewish Text and Practice. The fluency standards, a joint project of Hadar and Beit Rabban Day School, are a ground-breaking educational resource that articulates a vision of Jewish fluency and understanding. To learn more about the fluency standards, visit hadar.org/fluency-standards
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Shgaga: The Torah’s Response to Making MistakesBimBam2019-03-05 | Shgaga is the Torah concept for when someone does something accidentally, or by mistake. Doing something accidentally is different from doing something on purpose. Watch this animated video to learn three different Torah stories about shgaga.
This video was created in partnership with Hadar and is inspired by the Standards for Fluency in Jewish Text and Practice. The fluency standards, a joint project of Hadar and Beit Rabban Day School, are a ground-breaking educational resource that articulates a vision of Jewish fluency and understanding. To learn more about the fluency standards, visit hadar.org/fluency-standards
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Na VaNad: The Torah’s Punishment to WanderBimBam2019-03-05 | In the Torah, Na VaNad is when someone is forced to wander the Earth forever as punishment for killing your own sibling. Learn more about this Torah concept in this new animated video by BimBam and Hadar.
This video was created in partnership with Hadar and is inspired by the Standards for Fluency in Jewish Text and Practice. The fluency standards, a joint project of Hadar and Beit Rabban Day School, are a ground-breaking educational resource that articulates a vision of Jewish fluency and understanding. To learn more about the fluency standards, visit hadar.org/fluency-standards
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Whats Jewish About Farming? A Tour of Urban AdamahBimBam2019-03-01 | What does farming and taking care of the Earth have to do with Judaism? Take a tour of Urban Adamah, a Jewish farm in Berkeley, CA, to learn how Jewish values and traditions relate to farming.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Ki Tisa: Moses Breaks the Tablets at SinaiBimBam2019-02-20 | Rabba Yaffa Epstein retells the story of the breaking of the tablets containing the law from God received at Mount Sinai, aka the Ten Commandments. She shares not just the story of the Golden Calf and the anger of Moses but also a take on how we heal - tablets, hearts, humanity. There is a crack in everything, wrote Leonard Cohen, that's how the light gets in. Join Rabba Epstein for more on this in our animated short on Ki Tisa.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.History of Jewish Movements: Reform, Conservative and OrthodoxBimBam2019-02-17 | Watch our explainer video to learn the history of the Reform Jewish movement and how early proponents abandoned aspects of traditional Judaism in order to create a Jewish community that was able to adapt to the changes of the modern world.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Tetzaveh with Randi ZuckerbergBimBam2019-02-13 | Parshat Tetzaveh goes into great detail describing the proper attire for the high Priests, from materials and color to craftsmanship and jewels. But why should it matter what the Priests wore or what anyone wears if they are doing their job well? Learn more in this animated interpretation featuring Randi Zuckerberg.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Ahava in Parsha Kedoshim: Torah Crafts for KidsBimBam2019-02-10 | Are you a Jewish educator or parent looking for fun ways to engage kids in the weekly Torah portion? Our video brings parsha Kedoshim to life in a DIY craft project all about the parsha’s key character: love.
Learn alongside Beer Sheva-based educator, Emily Shapiro Katz as she guides you step-by-step while integrating Torah study, Hebrew language and Israel education. This simple craft project is easy enough that you could lead it at home or at school, with young kids or older kids.
Supplies you’ll need: – paint or markers – construction and printer paper – Hebrew letter cut outs (like this one) – glue stick – scissors
To find more about Emily’s work, check out her blog, Yetzira.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.How Modern Judaism Began: Emancipation and the EnlightenmentBimBam2019-02-03 | If you want to understand how Reform, Conservative and Orthodox Judaism came to be, you need to take a step back to when they first formed. Watch this explainer video to learn some Jewish history about the Enlightenment and Emancipation periods featuring BimBam producer Jeremy Shuback.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Mishpatim: What the Bible Says About Doing the Right ThingBimBam2019-01-31 | Do you tend to make decisions based on them being just and fair do you do go along with what's popular? In Parshat Mishpatim, we learn about all the ways to follow Jewish ethical traditions and morals to create a fair society. Watch this animated interpretations featuring social justice activist Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Jewish Drinking Meditation: A Unique Practice for Staying PresentBimBam2019-01-24 | Drinking meditation is when you can be completely present while enjoying a beverage of your choice. Follow teacher and coach, Alison Laichter, through a Jewish drinking meditation in our step-by-step video.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Tie Your Own Tzit Tzit for Your Tallit: Jewish DIY VideoBimBam2019-01-17 | Learn to tie your very own tzit tzit in this step-by-step DIY tutorial video featuring Jewish arts educator Emma Jaszczak.
Tzit Tzits (tseet-tseet or TSIT-sis) are strings or tassels tied to each of the corners of a Jewish prayer shawl or tallit. They are widely considered a reminder to think of G-d at all times.
When you buy a tallit from a Judaica store, the tzit tzits are usually knotted according to a specific pattern from Sephardi, Askenazi or Mizrahi tradition.
They fulfill the following commandments in Numbers 37 in the Torah:
"Speak to the Israelite people and instruct them to make for themselves fringes on the corners of their garments through the ages; let them attach a cord of blue to the fringe at each corner. That shall be your fringe; look at it and recall all the commandments of G-d and observe them...."
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Jews Talk About Their Hair: A BimBam ConversationBimBam2019-01-17 | Curly, kinky, fros - the Jewish people have it going on in the hair department. BimBam staff and board were having fun at the Youtube Space LA and had an impromptu chat about it.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Jewish Dance: An Overview with Bruce BiermanBimBam2018-12-20 | Jewish Dance isn’t just Israeli folk dancing. From Yemenite, Hasidic, Klezmer and Mizrahi, learn all the different types of Jewish dance and see some examples in our latest video featuring Bruce Bierman.
Bruce Bierman is a graduate of the U.C. Santa Cruz Theater Arts program and serves as a Jewish dance master, educator and theater director in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. He was a leading performer and teacher with the acclaimed Aman Folk Ensemble and completed the 2006 Karmiel Foreign Dance Teacher’s Program in Israel with an emphasis on Yemenite dance.
Bruce has studied with some of the great Yiddish dance masters from New York, Poland and Israel and is a leading presenter of Jewish dance and theater for Yiddish cultural festivals. Bruce serves as director and teacher for the Stagebridge Senior Theater Company and founded NewStages–a performing arts program serving LGBT elders in Los Angeles.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is Rosh Chodesh? Intro to the Monthly Jewish HolidayBimBam2018-12-07 | Rosh Chodesh is a minor Jewish holiday that happens on the first day of every month and literally translates to "head of the month". Watch our explainer video to learn the significance of this monthly holiday.
This holiday has long been considered a special holiday for women. Some say that this is because women of Israel did not offer their jewelry for the creation of the Golden Galf so they were given Rosh Chodesh, a day when they could abstain from work. Others connect the lunar cycle of the holiday to a woman's menstrual cycle. For thousands of years, Rosh Chodesh has been a holiday where women gather together for a variety of activities, from reciting prayers, to sharing a meal, discussing Jewish ethics and working for social change.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is Pikuach Nefesh? Intro to Jewish Principle of Saving a LifeBimBam2018-11-02 | Pikuach Nefesh is the Jewish principle that places saving someone’s life over all other religious obligations, even the most venerated and important ones. This video takes a deep dive into the source and interpretation of this principle that is of the utmost importance in Judaism.
Useful Links for Learning More about Pikuach Nefesh:
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Camels in Chayei Sarah: Torah Craft to teach KidsBimBam2018-10-28 | Are you a Jewish educator or parent looking for fun ways to engage kids in the weekly Torah portion? Our video brings Chayei Sarah to life in a DIY craft project all about the parsha's key character: the camel.
Learn alongside Beer Sheva-based educator, Emily Shapiro Katz as she guides you step-by-step while integrating Torah study, Hebrew language and Israel education. This simple craft project is easy enough that you could lead it at home or at school, with young kids or older kids.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.VAYERA: Lot, Sodom and Gomorrah: How Abraham Bargained with GodBimBam2018-10-23 | Sodom was a town filled with wicked people who drank too much, got into mischief and who knows what else. G-d didn't like it and planned to destroy the city and everyone in it. But then, Abraham decided to try to bargain with G-d to save his beloved nephew, Lot. Find out what happens in this parsha video featuring "Unorthodox" podcast host Mark Oppenheimer.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.A Brief History of Modern HebrewBimBam2018-10-18 | Hebrew spoken today is not the same as the Hebrew in the Bible. But how did Hebrew come to be anyway? Watch our video to learn a brief history of Modern Hebrew featuring Joshua Mallett, and written by UW's Dr. Liora Halperin. #jewish #hebrew #israel
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.LECH LECHA: The Brit, or Covenant, Between Abraham and GodBimBam2018-10-16 | You may know the word "brit" from the "bris" ritual but the word actually means covenant. Learn about the Brit Bein HaBetarim, or the covenant between the parts, as described in Parshat Lech Lecha. Written and narrated by Emily Shapiro Katz, a creative Jewish educator in Beer Sheva, Israel.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is the Shema? Intro to the Most Important Jewish PrayerBimBam2018-10-11 | The Shema is the most important prayer in Judaism and is recited often multiple times a day, reaffirming the Jewish people to Judaism. Learn the meaning behind the most important Jewish prayer in this video featuring Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann, the rabbi and founder of Mishhkan Chicago.
This video was created at the Chicago Rabbinic Writers Lab, a program where 10 rabbis wrote Introduction to Tefillah videos in chevruta as a group. This series breaks down and explains major Jewish prayers so you can feel more knowledgeable and comfortable while attending a Jewish service.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.The Tower of Babel and Why we Build: Parshat NoahBimBam2018-10-10 | The famous Tower of Babel is a shorter story embedded within the Torah portion of Noah - it's a powerful story about human ambition and the role of communication. David Zvi Kalman retells the story and ponders whether things worked out as humanity, and God, planned.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What Do Hinduism and Judaism Have in Common? (VLOG)BimBam2018-10-07 | At BimBam, we produce a lot of videos about Jewish traditions but not everyone on our staff is Jewish. Our staffer, Richa, explains some similarities between her religion, Hinduism, and Judaism. Watch our video to learn more about how Hinduism and Judaism compare in holidays, coming of age, purity and fasting practices.
Like this video? Tell us in the comments below and maybe we'll make more!
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Parshat Bereshit: Listen UpBimBam2018-10-03 | The story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, hiding from God. What can we learn from the language the Torah uses here?
In honor of BimBam's 10th anniversary, here's a new take on Parshat Bereshit, from our board chair, Galyn Susman. It's new, old-school G-dcast.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is the Hallel? Jewish Prayer of PraiseBimBam2018-09-06 | Hallel is a Jewish prayer that is recited in community as an act of praise and gratitude. Learn more about this powerful prayer in this video featuring Rabbi Josh Feigelson of the University of Chicago Divinity School.
Special thank you to Joey Weisenberg & The Hadar Ensemble for use of "Bina's Nigun (Live)" from the album, "Joey's Nigunim, Vol. III: Live in the Choir Loft."
Hallel literally translates as "praise" and it is a way of expressing profound collective gratitude and praise to G-d. The Jewish prayer is comprised of five different psalms that all evoke imagines of transition, evolution and growth. First psalm is all about G-d's power as creator. The second psalm evokes the historical experience of the Exodus where the Israelites experienced freedom for the first time from their Egyptian oppressors. The Exodus is the first instance of the Hallel. In the third psalm, we see a shift as the words center on the debt we owe G-d for saving us. The fourth psalm expresses joy appreciation and humility we feel towards G-d and the whole around us. The last psalm weaves together gratitude, memory and request.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is the Birkat Hamazon? Jewish Blessing After a MealBimBam2018-08-23 | Did you just finished a delicious meal? Now it's time to say the Birkat Hamazon. Learn more about this blessing with Rabbi Michael Balinsky of the Chicago Board of Rabbis.
This video was created at the Chicago Rabbinic Writers Lab, a program where 10 rabbis wrote Introduction to Tefillah videos in chevruta as a group. This series breaks down and explains major Jewish prayers so you can feel more knowledgeable and comfortable while attending a Jewish service.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Why Do Some Menorahs Have Only 7 Branches?BimBam2018-08-12 | The Menorah has been a Jewish symbol and part of Jewish traditions for centuries. But have you noticed that some menorahs have 7 branches and others have more? What's the deal? Find some answers in our quick explainer video featuring Joshua Mallett.
A seven branch menorah are where the candle holders are all on one line. There is no helper candle, or Shamash. This menorah once stood in Jerusalem's temple and many synagogues today have these menorahs on the bimah (altar).
An eight branch menorah is known to many as the Hanukah menorah. On this menorah, the eight candle holders are all on one line with a ninth candle, or the helper candle (Shamash), out of placed in height or position. This menorah represents the miracle of Hanukah where the oil lasted eight days instead of one.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.A to E on Arts Education: Tips for Integrating Art into Your ClassroomBimBam2018-07-22 | Are you looking for ways to integrate the arts into your classroom but don't know where to even begin? In this video, Jewish arts educator, Emma Jaszczak, teaches you five easy steps for effectively bringing the arts in your classroom.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.What is Tisha Bav: The Jewish Day of MourningBimBam2018-07-18 | Tisha B’Av is the day of mourning in Judaism. On this day, the ninth of Av, a series of major tragedies of the Jewish people occurred including the destruction of the first and second temples in Jerusalem. Watch our video to learn more about the significance and meaning behind this day.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Why Does the Jewish Calendar Change Every Year?BimBam2018-07-12 | Why do Jewish holidays move around on the calendar? Why do we have Chanukah sometimes on Thanksgiving? Find some answers and learn more about how the Jewish calendar works in this video featuring Joshua Mallett.
The Hebrew calendar, or the Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar where as the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar. The Jewish calendar is synced to the moon so the first day of the month is a new moon and the 15th day of the month is a full moon.
Problem is a lunar calendar is 10 or 11 days short of the solar, Gregorian calendar. In order to keep up with the seasons, every three years or so (or seven times within a 19 year period), we add a whole extra month: Adar II. Adding an extra month helps prevent Passover from occurring in the winter and Chanukah from occurring in the fall!
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union for Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.How To Make An Animation Split ScriptBimBam2018-07-05 | Once you’ve written your script, the next step is figuring out how it will line up with your video.
Once you download our split script template, you’re looking at here is three columns. The first column is for words the narrator will be saying. The second column is for the pictures you’ll see while you hear the narration, and the third column is for any notes you have like describing a motion you want to do and how long that picture should be on screen for. More on that later. For now, what we want is to write each new thought of the script on a new picture.
Basically, every place you could imagine having another picture, write another line of text.
-- SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union of Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.Welcome to Teaching Animation: Professional Development Course for EducatorsBimBam2018-07-05 | Welcome to our first ever online professional development course for Jewish educators to learn stop motion animation. The best part? It’s free and self-paced so you can learn whenever and wherever. Our course will take you step-by-step through the stop motion animation process, from writing scripts, creating props and recording quality audio. Learn a new 21st century skill and gain confidence today!
We have broken up the course into three parts to make it super easy and accessible for you to learn stop motion animation. Watch each video, do the assignment in the video and move on to the next video. By the end of the course, you’ll be the proud creator of a 30 second animated video!
This course is recommended for middle and high school Jewish educators Time required: 3 hours
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ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Watch something Jewish at https://www.bimbam.com. Facebook: facebook.com/heybimbam Twitter: twitter.com/heybimbam
SUPPORT US We are a nonprofit organization and would love your support to continue creating engaging and educational content. If you like our videos support us here: bimbam.com/donateHow to Create an Animation Asset ListBimBam2018-07-05 | Before you can make your animation, you have to create an asset list. In order to make an asset list, you need to first have your story reel done - so make sure you have that, and then it’s time to make the visuals for real. First thing is to go gather your supplies. We made a handy shopping list for you. It’s in the links below.
SUPPORT US We are a nonprofit organization and would love your support to continue creating engaging and educational content. If you like our videos support us here: bimbam.com/donateHow To Write An Animation ScriptBimBam2018-07-05 | In this video we’ll write an animation script, based off of a text. While you could obviously do this with any short bit of text, we’re going to use Ecclesiastes, chapter 3 as our example.
So if you want to follow these videos directly, pull out a handy bible or download the source sheet in the link below to follow along. You can absolutely feel free to use a different 500ish word piece of text if you like. Let’s start.
-- BimBam (formerly G-dcast) is a new media studio making Jewish videos, apps and animated series that are joyful, empowering introductions to Jewish ideas and life for kids & adults. Watch something Jewish at https://www.bimbam.com.How to Make Props for Cut Paper AnimationBimBam2018-07-05 | Let’s make some props for animation! Do you have your paper and scissors in front of you? Well, go get them! You can refer to our shopping list in the link below to get everything you’ll need for this course going forward.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union of Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.How To Make A Story Reel for Stop Motion AnimationBimBam2018-07-05 | In this video, we'll show you how to turn a split script, which is really a simplified “storyboard,” into what we in the biz call a “story reel” of your planned video.
This is an opportunity to see if your vision works. Do the images support the script? Have you planned too much? Too little? This rough draft will help you test your ideas. Not only will it show you exactly how long to pace your piece (more on that later) it also works as a quick test to see if the jokes are hitting and if your script is working, before going into the more labor intensive animation process.
If your story reel is feeling confusing or weird or you’re bored watching it, now’s the time to change up the script or the images and record a new better story reel. It’s all part of the process. Your piece will undoubtedly get better each time you remake and re-record your story reel. It’s not uncommon for us to redo our story boards and story reels three or four times before moving into animation. A traditional story reel is a series of photos that are added to the narration like this, but to keep this as simple as possible, we’re going to do it all as a single video like this.
SUBSCRIBE to RJ on the GO: reformjudaism.org/rjonthego to attend live, interactive, virtual experiences for children and families.
ABOUT US BimBam sparks connections to Judaism through digital storytelling for learners of all ages. Founded in 2008, BimBam’s catalog of hundreds of animated videos and other digital content are now under the auspices of the Union of Reform Judaism, and many can be found on its flagship educational website, ReformJudaism.org. Watch something Jewish at https://reformjudaism.org.