Moadim L’Simcha, Festivals for Joy!
Moadim L’Simcha, Festivals for Joy! This week and into next is known as Z’man Simchateynu, the Season of Our Rejoicing.
Sukkot, Hashanah Rabbah, Shmini Atzeret and Simhat Torah are all infused with joy and incredible renewing energies. We certainly need to be uplifted. The best way to feel this joy is in the intimate connection with nature as we are called to spend more time outdoors and, if we are able, to embrace and wave the Lulav and Etrog. Hashanah Rabbah, is less known, but significant because it is like a Yom Kippur make up day. In addition to seven Hakafot - Encirclements with the Lulav and Etrog, we also beat willow branches on the earth and pray for rain and a bountiful earth. Shmini Atzeret is a day of transitioning back into the work world and culminates with Simhat Torah, rejoicing with the Torah scrolls that feature dancing and even a little extra shnappes.
Next Monday evening, September 27, at 6:45pm at Temple Shalom, Am Kolel is celebrating Simhat Torah with some of their members in their Tent of Meeting. Reb David will co lead the service. See more information and registration link below.
Also, check out the Sukkot Climate Caravan! And try to come to Sanctuary for an incredible Sukkot Shabbat celebration this Saturday morning at 10:30am.
We welcome your ideas for future programs. Coming November 9 we will meet on Zoom with Reb Simcha Raphael who will share tales about End of Life Issues - Torah Wisdom for Conscious Living and Dying. On November 23 will meet in person and on Zoom with Rabbi Arik Ascherman, the prominent human rights activist working with Israelis and Palestinians.
We are also planning an evening of poetry and song lead by our own members as well as an introductory course in Musar. Let us know what you're interested in learning! This is, after all, the Shmita Year, perfect for learning and growing in wisdom.
Moadim L’Simcha, Up with Joy!
Reb David