Dear Beth Shalom Community,

As we approach Shabbat and delve into Parshat Emor, our attention turns to the divinely ordained role of the Kohanim (priests) in ancient Israel. This parsha details the specific instructions and rituals associated with the Kohanim, including the powerful Priestly Blessing they bestowed upon the Israelites.

These blessings were more than just pronouncements; they served as a conduit for divine favor and a constant reminder of the holiness expected from the people. The act of pronouncing the blessing itself was a call to action, urging the Israelites to strive for a life imbued with sanctity and purpose.

While the role of the Kohanim may no longer exist in the same way, the message of Parshat Emor remains profoundly relevant in our lives today. We are all called upon to cultivate a sense of holiness within ourselves, reflected in our actions and interactions with the world around us. This holiness manifests in our commitment to mitzvot, our acts of kindness and compassion, and our dedication to ethical living.

Just as the Kohanim served as a bridge between the divine and the human, we too can strive to be a blessing for others. Let us emulate their dedication to service and use our unique talents and strengths to uplift those in need. Whether it’s volunteering our time, offering a helping hand to a neighbor, or simply practicing patience and understanding in our daily lives, we can all contribute to a more holy and harmonious community.

As we gather for Shabbat this week, let us reflect on the teachings of Parshat Emor. May we draw inspiration from the Priestly Blessing and recommit ourselves to living a life infused with purpose, compassion, and a dedication to the holiness that resides within us all.

Shabbat Shalom,

Dear Beth Shalom Members,

As we approach Shabbat this week, we delve into Parshat Kedoshim, a portion rich with instructions on living a holy life.The Torah calls upon us to strive for holiness in all aspects of our being, from our actions and relationships to our speech and even the food we consume. This pursuit of holiness is a cornerstone of Jewish life, reminding us of the potential for good that resides within each of us.

This Shabbat also carries a unique weight as it falls close to Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Day of Remembrance, and Yom Haatzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. These two holidays evoke a powerful mix of emotions – the solemnity of remembering fallen soldiers and the joy of celebrating Israel’s birth and resilience.

I strongly encourage everyone to participate in our community-wide celebration taking place on Monday evening here at BSS for both adults and children. Detailed information about the Yom HaZikaron and Yom Haatzmaut programs can be found in our links below.

May this Shabbat be a time for reflection, connection, and a renewed commitment to living a life imbued with holiness. May we also hold close the memory of those who have fallen in defense of Israel and celebrate the ongoing miracle of its existence.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Scott Klein