We All Stand Together
We All Stand Together
As we close out the month of Elul, preceding the holiest time of the year, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, we delve into this week's Torah portion, Nitzavim - Vayeilech. Traditionally read on the Shabbat before Rosh Hashanah, Nitzavim conveys a profound message. The word signifies "to stand," and the Torah resonantly proclaims:
אַתֶּ֨ם נִצָּבִ֤ים הַיּוֹם֙ כֻּלְּכֶ֔ם לִפְנֵ֖י יְהוָ֣ה
You stand this day, all of you, before God.
This Parsha paints a vivid image of a unified collective on the precipice of entering a transformative covenant with God, drawing closer to the Promised Land.
So, who were the witnesses to this landmark event? The Torah provides clarity, highlighting the presence of "your tribal heads, your elders, and your officials." Yet, it extends beyond these leaders. The assembly mirrored the entirety of society: "all the men of Israel, your children, your wives, and the stranger within your camp." Significantly, even the "woodchopper and water carrier" were acknowledged, underscoring the indispensable value of every individual. This is a poignant reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the value of every community member.
Today, as we stand on the brink of a new year, poised before God, we're enveloped by the spirit of the 'All.' This spirit cherishes diverse narratives and perspectives, including those we might not fully grasp and the tales distinct from ours. The 'All' is a tapestry interwoven with legacies of the past and potentials of the future.
The term Nitzavim is not a passive stance. It's an embodiment of the spiritual affirmation "Hineni"—declaring, "Here I am, God. I am ready to stand before you." It's a testament of presence, of unwavering commitment, and a readiness to serve.
Nitzavim resounds as a call to action. It propels us to stand with purpose, to resonate our "Hineni"—affirming our readiness.
Segueing into Vayelech, we learn that only after establishing our commitment can we "go forth" into the Promised Land. As Rosh Hashanah approaches, let us channel the essence of standing with intent, echoing "Hineni" into the forthcoming year. May this sacred transition galvanize us to embrace kindness, forgiveness, love, and service, revitalizing our covenant for the year ahead.
From Two Years Ago and Still Relevant
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Your Elul Playlist
Shanah Tovah
Maybe something about interfaith families too.