As we watch the rain drops fall in the west and the snowflakes fall in the east, we are reminded of the changing time of year.

In Jewish tradition, we have blessings for all moments. We pray for a healthy rainfall at the end of Sukkot and for a nice dew at the beginning of Passover.

Yet, Jewish law also dictates how we interact with nature the rest of the year.

Growing up in Syracuse, NY, snow was not a novelty. It was a reality. As an observant Jew, I needed to ask, what were my limits of snow play on Shabbat? Is sledding permitted as a mode of transportation? Could I build a snowman or a snow angel? What about tossing a snowball?

Believe it or not, you can find answers to these questions in rabbinic response.

So….for those of you in the snow this weekend, or for those of you seeing the snow forecast on TV, here is the Rabbinic winter forecast.

1. Since snow, like rain, is already present in the atmosphere, it is not considered forbidden to touch. And since it is permitted….you can pick it up and throw it!

But please, let’s be careful…since we are not permitted to build on Shabbat, and snowballs and snowmen need to be built, we cannot engage in this activity.

Nevertheless…..if you create your snowball BEFORE Shabbat…enjoy the toss!!!

2. The Rabbis also permit sledding. How so? The grooves that the sled makes in the snow are similar to the grooves that our boots would make. Since walking is permitted, so too is sledding.

3. Interestingly, the Rabbis understand that snow for many is an anomaly; it is fun and is not a common occurrence. The ultimate question we must ask is, “How do we keep these activities within the spirit of Shabbat?” We do not wish to tell children that Shabbat is onerous. Rather, it should be filled with oneg, joy.

So this weekend, as we bask in wet weather from west to east, when many are not home but on the road, remember that our glorious Jewish tradition has something to say about that, too!

Shabbat Shalom

Stay Warm

Happy New Year