Shabbat Shalom!
As we welcome another Shabbat, I'm reminded of the timeless wisdom and lessons that each Torah portion brings to our lives. This week, as we delve into Parashat Beshalach, I wanted to revisit two posts I shared last year. Their relevance and insights continue to resonate, highlighting the enduring wisdom of our Torah.
In the first post, "Beshalach - Moving Through Mitzrayim - The Narrow Place," we explored the journey of the Israelites from their enslavement in Mitzrayim, the 'narrow place', to their miraculous crossing of the sea. It reflects on how the Israelites, despite their initial fear and hesitation, found faith and courage to move through their challenges, symbolized by the parting of the sea. This story serves as a reminder of the power of faith and Shabbat in guiding us through our own 'narrow places' in life.
The second post, "Nachshon and the Legacy of Black Courage," connects the Torah portion with the struggle for liberation in the Black community. It discusses a mashup of "Mi Chamocha" and the spiritual "Wade in the Water" as a symbol of bravery and resilience. Drawing parallels between Nachshon's leap of faith into the Red Sea and the courage shown in the journey towards freedom from slavery, the post emphasizes the need for bold action and change in the face of ongoing challenges, such as police brutality and systemic injustice.
As you read, reflect, and rest this Shabbat, I hope these articles bring additional depth to your Sabbath contemplation and discussion.
Wishing you a peaceful Shabbat and a wonderful weekend ahead.
Shabbat Shalom!
Beshalach - Moving Through Mitzrayim - The Narrow Place
In last week's Torah portion, we learned that after centuries of enslavement, our ancestors gained their freedom from the Mitzrayim, also known as the narrow place, the place of constriction, and the place that caused the Israelites so much pain. In this week's Torah portion
Torah Tuesday: Nachshon and the Legacy of Black Courage
This past weekend, as the rabbi in residence for Shir Hadash in St. Louis, I mashed up the words of "Mi Chamocha," which also appears in this week's Torah portion, Beshalach, and the well-known spiritual "Wade in the Water" - to create a representation of the journey of liberation. After the service, a congregant appro…
Your Updated Shabbat Playlist to Awaken Your Soul
Shabbat Shalom!