Seforimchatter Thanksgiving and Jewish Law (with Prof. Michael Broyde)
Nov 23, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Prof. Michael J. Broyde, a law professor and former rabbi, shares his insights on the intersection of Jewish law and Thanksgiving. He delves into the holiday's historical origins, from early pilgrim feasts to its evolution in American culture. Prof. Broyde discusses whether Thanksgiving is a religious or secular event, debates the implications of chukot hagoyim, and examines the varying halachic perspectives on Jewish participation. His unique take on patriotism’s role in celebrating this holiday is both thought-provoking and timely.
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Modern Thanksgiving Began With Lincoln
- Modern American Thanksgiving originated in the Civil War-era national unity project rather than directly from the Pilgrim spring festivals.
- Abraham Lincoln's proclamation created the late-November holiday that became our contemporary Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Is Largely Secular Today
- Contemporary Thanksgiving is largely secular and lacks direct Christian ritual origins unlike holidays such as Halloween.
- The holiday's religious roots have mostly faded in the American practice of Thanksgiving.
Make Thanksgiving Meaningful At Home
- If you host a Thanksgiving meal, ensure its purpose is family togetherness or civic values rather than ritual imitation.
- Use the holiday to strengthen family ties and teach values, which reduces halachic concerns.
