As we leave Pesach, I just wanted to share with you a major focus of these last one or two days. The words from Isaiah lay out a vision for Messianic time, a world of harmoniousness between peoples, animals and the earth. This future vision has also been compared to the Garden of Eden, the difference being that we, human beings, need to take the steps to make it happen. The verses from Isaiah ring very powerfully in Christianity and set the theology for the emergence of Jesus. I have enjoyed the interpretation of the Ishbitzer Rav, Mordecai Joseph Leiner, a Hassidic master of the 19th century who taught that each of us contains the light of the Mashiach within. Please note the beauty and power of Isaiah’s words below directed to each of us.
Read MoreWe note in the Mishna, some 2000 years ago, how Rabbi Gamliel and his colleagues gave structure to the Seder. In fact, the traditional Haggadah from the early Middle Ages opens with several sages planning the revolt against Rome.
Read MoreEver since I was a kid, I was enamored by the meaning of Passover. I loved its celebration of family, history and the spring. For many, Pesach is primarily about gathering with loved ones for the Seders.
Read MoreThe month of Nisan is, traditionally, a month of renewal and hopefulness. In many Jewish communities it was the custom to not recite the usual Tachanun or supplication liturgy during this time. With this is mind I chose last week to plant a pear tree at Sanctuary to complete our Sephirot Garden of ten trees.
Read MoreAre we ready for Pesach? Our Festivals of Freedom and Spring are fast approaching. Some of us are feeling the need to do some prep. One age old tradition is in the form of a spring cleaning, especially to rid our homes of Chametzdike products. We can also put our leavened products in a box and during the holiday, store in the basement or a closet. Many “sell” their Chametz to a non-Jewish person who is happy to help in this Mitzvah.
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