In 2025, we begin Counting the Omer at sundown Saturday, April 19 and end on Pentecost, Sunday, June 8th.
OTHER TRADITIONS START COUNTING THE DAY AFTER PASSOVER
Counting the days to Pentecost is a biblical tradition that spans 49 days—seven weeks—and traces its roots all the way back to the time of Moses (Leviticus 23:15–16).
When Jesus appeared for the first 40 days—fully alive in His resurrected body—His followers would have been counting the omer.
Simka Circle members receive daily reflections and prayer during these 49 days so they can celebrate at home.
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Barley Harvest
What exactly is an Omer? It’s a unit of measurement—about 3.5 liters, or just over 15 cups—used for dry goods like grain, specifically barley. The term is sometimes translated as “sheaf,” because it often described the amount of barley that could be bundled together.
The barley harvest begins in Nissan, the first month of the Biblical year, and reminds us of the story of Ruth who arrived in Israel at “the beginning of the barley harvest” (Ruth 1:22).
Counting with Prayer
Since new days begin at sundown according to the Bible, the custom of "Counting the Omer" happens after nightfall. Counting actually involves giving thanks for each day starting on the Day of Firstfruits.
Psalm 67 is often read daily as it consists of 7 verses and has 49 Hebrew words, mirroring the 7 weeks and 49 days of the count. It's a great time to give gratitude for God's blessings!
Keeping Track
There are lots of ways to keep track of the days! We’ve tied ribbons on fence posts, made a trail of rocks, clipped clothes pens on a line, and added leaves to vase. Two jars make it easy to move marbles, dried beans, or Legos from one to the other each day.
Get creative! It’s your time to build anticipation leading to the big day of Pentecost. That day brings plenty of reasons to celebrate! It's the anniversary of the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Spring Festivals
Every Spring, over 50 days—bookended by two big parties—fill the calendar with reasons to celebrate.
Special days of God's choosing come with an opportunity to say yes to His invitation and join together in celebration!