The Hebrew phrase dor l’dor means “from generation to generation.” In Jewish culture, it encompasses a rich legacy transmitted from ancients to moderns to come. Visiting Israel for the first time since the onslaught of war, my heart aches for all those who lived through that complex tragedy; it reminds me of a beautiful Jewish tradition called dor l’dor, or generation to generation.

The dor l’dor legacy plays out in vitally engaging ways in the U.S., where whole families hold practices that enshrine their heritage and who they are. Communities regularly hold events and educational programs that reflect the dor l’dor tradition, bringing together members of all ages to share stories and celebrate their heritage.

This custom is not only about remembering; it’s also about new forms and adaptation. As Jewish life in America matures, the dor l’dor ethos calls for innovation while remaining faithful to traditions that have been handed down for generations. Through this dor l’dor tradition, families cultivate bonds that span both time and space in a way that keeps the flame of their cultural identity alive for those who come after them.

In the end, the dor l’dor practice weaves together the fabric of Jewish life among U.S. Jews, creating a greater feeling of community and continuity.