Dear Beth Shalom Synagogue,

This week, we delve into Parashat Tazria, a portion filled with detailed instructions regarding ritual purity and bodily discharges. While these regulations may seem arcane at first glance, they offer a profound message about the importance of living a holy life.

The Torah doesn’t simply dictate cleanliness; it elevates it to a spiritual practice. By taking care of our bodies and observing these rituals, we cultivate a sense of holiness that permeates every aspect of our lives. Just as a Kohen (priest) maintains a state of ritual purity to approach the sacred, we are all called upon to approach life with intention and awareness.

The concept of holiness in Tazria extends beyond the physical. The parsha also addresses forbidden sexual relationships and the importance of marital intimacy. These laws are not merely restrictions, but rather guidelines for building healthy and respectful relationships within the framework of our faith.

Ultimately, Parashat Tazria reminds us that holiness is not a destination, but a journey. It’s about infusing every detail of our lives, from our physical well-being to our interpersonal relationships, with meaning and intentionality. May we approach this week with a renewed commitment to living a life that reflects our values and brings us closer to the divine.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Scott Klein

Parashat Tzav:

Dear Friends,

As we delve into Parshat Tzav this Shabbat, we encounter a detailed description of the ongoing service within the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. The parshat meticulously outlines the daily and weekly offerings made by the Kohanim (priests), emphasizing the importance of consistent dedication and meticulous attention to detail.

Beyond its historical context, Parshat Tzav offers valuable lessons for our lives today. The concept of ongoing service reminds us that our commitment to Judaism is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous practice. Just as the Kohanim upheld their duties with unwavering dedication, we are each called to find ways to integrate our Jewish values into our daily routines.

Whether it’s lighting Shabbat candles, offering a prayer of gratitude, or performing acts of kindness, these seemingly small acts, woven together, create a tapestry of service that strengthens our connection to our faith and enriches our lives.

The parshat also emphasizes the importance of specialization. The Kohanim each had specific roles in the service, ensuring that the rituals were performed with expertise and respect. Similarly, within our synagogue community, we all have unique talents and skills to offer. By identifying our strengths and contributing them to the greater good, we create a vibrant and dynamic congregation.

Let us take inspiration from Parshat Tzav as we approach this Shabbat. May we each find ways to weave our own threads of service into the fabric of our lives and our community.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Klein

This week’s Torah portion, Tetzaveh, delves into the intricate details of the priestly garments worn in the Mishkan, the portable sanctuary. These garments served not only as practical attire but also as powerful symbols of holiness and dedication. Each piece held specific meaning, reminding the priests of their sacred duties and responsibilities.

As we reflect on Tetzaveh, we are reminded that every individual within our community has a unique role to play. Just as the priests wore specific garments to signify their service, we each have our own gifts and talents to contribute to the greater good. Let us strive to use our strengths and passions to serve our community and make a positive impact on the world around us.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Joye Harari on her upcoming Bat Mitzvah this Shabbat! This significant milestone marks her formal entry into Jewish adulthood and her commitment to lifelong learning and Jewish practice. We wish Joye all the best as she embraces this new chapter in her life and continues to grow in her faith.

Join Us for Adult Education! Beginning this Shabbat following kiddush, on a weekly basis we will have a class on the spiritual path of Mussar focusing on the development of character traits, called middot, as a means of spiritual growth. It began as a way to balance out Judaism’s emphasis on ritual and observance, to help people behave in a way that reflects our values. We know intellectually how we are supposed to act in the world, yet so many of us fail to live up to our own ideals. The goal of Mussar is to teach the heart through experience what the mind already knows. The contemporary system of Mussar, which was developed by Rabbi Yisrael Salanter in the 19th century, involves the study of sacred text, self-reflective activities such as journaling, spiritual activities such as meditation and visualization, and practical exercises called kabbalot. In this class we will focus on the middot of humility, gratitude, equanimity, honor, loving-kindness, and enthusiasm.

Beginning in March, we’re excited to offer a weekly Zoom adult education class on Pirkei Avot, also known as “Ethics of the Fathers.” This classic text explores timeless wisdom on living a meaningful and ethical life. Join us on Wednesdays at 7pm for stimulating discussions and enriching insights as we delve into the teachings of Pirkei Avot.

We look forward to learning and growing together as a community. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbi Klein

This week’s Torah portion, Terumah, takes us on a journey of generosity and meticulous craftsmanship. God instructs Moses to gather contributions from the Israelites for the construction of the Mishkan, a portable sanctuary that will accompany them during their desert wanderings.

The emphasis on voluntary giving is striking. God doesn’t demand; He invites participation. This sets the stage for an outpouring of generosity, with people readily offering gold, silver, precious stones, and skilled labor. The details are specific – the precise measurements of the Mishkan’s curtains, the materials for the Ark of the Covenant, the intricate design of the priestly garments. These details, often seen as tedious, highlight the importance of intentionality and adherence to God’s will.

The Mishkan is built not through forced labor or taxes, but through voluntary giving. This teaches us the importance of philanthropy and contributing to the collective good.
The meticulous instructions for the Mishkan’s construction emphasize the importance of intentionality and striving for perfection in every aspect of our lives, even the mundane.
The Mishkan serves as a reminder that God’s presence can accompany us wherever we go. It’s a symbol of hope and comfort during challenging times.

As we move into Shabbat, I encourage you to think about:

How can we incorporate the values of Terumah – generosity and intentionality – into our daily lives?
What are some ways we can bring the spirit of the Mishkan into our own homes and communities?
How does the concept of a portable sanctuary resonate with our own experiences as Jews living in a diverse and ever-changing world?

May the lessons of Parshat Terumah inspire us to live with generosity, intentionality, and a deep connection to our faith. As we stay with the theme of tzedaka / charity, join us in the library after services on Shabbat for a class on the “Maimonides’ Eight Degrees of Giving.”

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