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Kumzits (קומזיץ) is used to describe a musical gathering that Jews partake in. Everyone sits together, be it on the floor or on chairs, and sings spiritually moving songs. To establish a certain ambiance the lighting is often low and candles are primarily used, or if taking place outdoors it is usually around a campfire.
If it is not theJewish Sabbath then there will usually be musical instruments, such as guitar or violin. An orator will usually tell short inspirational folk-stories between songs.
AmongSlonimer Chassidim, a similar gathering is called a "zitzen", which is Yiddish for "sitting", is conducted by the Chassidim after the Rebbe'sTish, without the presence of the Rebbe.
It is a compound word inYiddish composed of קום (come) and זיץ (sit). Originally the word was coined by theBiluim. Despite the opposition of some who preferred to use the more distinctly Hebrew שב-נאShev-na "please sit" or Persian/Arabic טוזיג "Tozig" (via the Talmud),[1] the word has stuck and is used mainly by the religious but sometimes also the secular public.
Often, a kumzits will take place after theSabbath, and as such some erroneously use the term interchangeably withMelava Malka. When a kumzits takes place Friday night, it is often called an "oneg shabbos" (a Hebrew phrase meaning "Sabbath pleasure"). Kumzits are also popular among campers.
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Generally, slow, moving songs are sung during a kumzitz. Songs composed byShlomo Carlebach are very popular, as well as songs by the more recent Jewish singing groups such as Dveykus andZusha.[citation needed] If the kumzits takes place on Shabbat, songs with a Sabbath theme can be sung. If the kumzits is held onRosh Chodesh or near the date of anotherJewish holiday, songs associated with that holiday can be sung. Here is a partial list of the more popular kumzits songs:[where?]