Tag Archives: Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

Unveiling the Significance of Shavuot

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In the quiet moments of my childhood, I grew up amidst a tapestry of Jewish traditions intertwined with secular education, each thread shaping who I am today. My journey from the familiar streets of Montreal to virtual classrooms and the revered Shiviti schools in Jerusalem has been one of deep exploration into my roots. As Shavuot approaches, I reflect on this often-overlooked holiday and its profound significance—not just for Jews, but for everyone.

Shavuot: A Moment of Universal Revelation

Shavuot, known as zman matan toratenu—the time of the giving of our Torah—marks a pivotal moment in human history. The story is recounted in Exodus 20:1-17, where G-d reveals the Torah at Mount Sinai. This event transcends a mere religious occurrence; it embodies universal principles beyond faith and culture. The choice of the wilderness for this revelation highlights that the teachings of the Torah are meant for all people, regardless of background or status. This concept resonates deeply with me, reinforcing that wisdom and teachings can emerge from the most unexpected places and are available to anyone willing to seek them out.

The Ten Commandments: A Blueprint for All

The Ten Commandments, or aseret hadibrot, are not solely directives for Jews but serve as a blueprint for a meaningful life, inspiring many across the globe. Delivered by G-d at Mount Sinai 50 days after the Israelites departed from Egypt, these commandments are part of a broader framework of 613 laws guiding human conduct.

Consider Leviticus 19:35-36, which addresses fair business practices. This passage echoes the eighth Commandment about not bearing false witness and the ninth about not stealing:

“You shall not commit a perversion of justice with measures, weights, or liquid measures. You shall have accurate scales and weights.”

In Canada, where honesty in business is highly valued, these ancient principles still resonate today. They remind us of the deep roots of our values of truthfulness and fairness—principles essential for a just society.

Another fundamental teaching involves the fair treatment and prompt payment of workers, linking back to the commandments against theft and false testimony:

“Do not withhold the workers’ wage with you until morning.” (Leviticus 19:13).

“Do not extort the impoverished wage… Each day, you shall pay him his wage—the sun shall not rise upon it—for he is poor, and he has staked his life for it.” (Deuteronomy 24:14-15)

These commandments, including those against theft and lying, connect with the tenth Commandment against coveting. Unchecked desires can lead to significant societal issues, as history has shown with the exploitation and suffering during the Nazi regime. Books like Amos Elon’s The Pity of It All reveal how misunderstanding and mistreatment of any community can have devastating consequences, underscoring the universal relevance of these teachings.

The First Five Commandments: A Universal Connection with the Divine

The first five commandments focus on our relationship with G-d, yet their core principles resonate universally. They begin with prohibitions against other gods and idolatry, emphasizing respect for the Divine and our unique covenant.

In the Sinai desert, G-d revealed Himself not as a demanding ruler but as a compassionate force, contrasting with the Egyptian pharaohs who sought worship. Instead of creating idols, G-d calls us to embrace ideals of love, compassion, and justice—universal principles deeply relevant to everyone.

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks reminds us that true freedom requires more than just the overthrow of tyranny:

“Freedom is not won by merely overthrowing a tyrannical ruler or an oppressive regime. That is usually only the prelude to a new tyranny, a new oppression. True freedom requires the rule of law and justice.”¹

The Torah’s laws aim to improve human lives, not merely serve divine interests. For instance, the prohibition against making images of G-d teaches us to focus on love and justice rather than material representations. These ideals can guide anyone in their quest for a better world.

The Sabbath, a cherished gift from G-d, highlights the importance of rest and reflection. It’s not merely a day off; it’s a time to recharge, reconnect, and appreciate what truly matters:

“Remember the Sabbath Day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath unto the Lord your God…”

Another vital commandment, honouring our parents, underscores their role in passing down essential values. This theme resonates with the universal principle of valuing and respecting those who guide and nurture us.

Celebrating Shavuot: A Universal Invitation

As Shavuot arrives, Jewish communities worldwide will gather for all-night Torah study sessions. This tradition, rich with history, brings the holiday’s significance to life. One of my favourite stories is of Rabbi Akiva, who, when challenged to summarize the Torah while standing on one leg, responded:

“Do not do unto others what you would not want them to do unto you. The rest is commentary.”

The Baal Shem Tov, a 17th-century Hassidic leader, taught that understanding the Torah extends beyond study—it’s also about celebrating with good food, drink, laughter, song, and dance. Shavuot is a time for deep analysis, coming together with family and friends, sharing traditions, and finding joy in our heritage. This spirit of celebration and reflection can inspire anyone, regardless of their background.

Legacy of the Torah: A Guiding Light for All

For centuries, the Torah has been a guiding light for the Jewish people, offering principles of freedom, joy, and prosperity. Its teachings provide a universal roadmap for living a life filled with meaning and purpose. As we celebrate Shavuot, let’s deepen our connection with these timeless principles, seeking wisdom and understanding as we strive to build a world rooted in justice, compassion, and love. May this celebration inspire us all to grow, connect, and transform throughout the year.

FOOTNOTE:

  1. Sacks, Jonathan. Passover’s Lessons for Freedom Fighters. The Rabbinical Council of America, 2012.

Finding Solace in Torah, Film, and Modern Teachings Amidst a Pandemic

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Jewish Education

When the pandemic hit, life as we knew it was upended overnight. The overwhelming uncertainty and isolation made many of us seek comfort and meaning in familiar places. For me, these sanctuaries became the Torah, film, and modern discourse—each offering a unique form of solace and a connection to enduring wisdom during the global upheaval.

More Than Just an Escape

Movies have always had the power to transport us, offering a break from reality and reflecting our deepest fears and hopes. Surreal and symbolic films like The Green Knight gained prominence during the pandemic. The film’s striking imagery—naked giantesses, a talking fox, and a massive, vine-covered combatant—captivated audiences. As director David Lowery described, “The Green Knight is a hallucinatory, dreamlike journey into the surreal and the subconscious, an exploration of fears, desires, and the nature of honor.”¹ These films were more than mere entertainment; they invited us to explore themes of courage, fear, and the unknown.

In a time when reality felt more surreal than fiction, these fantastical worlds provided a meaningful escape. They allowed us to step away from immediate chaos and engage with messages that resonated with our collective challenges, offering a unique perspective on our experiences.

Ancient Wisdom: Lessons from the Talmud

My quest for meaning extended beyond the silver screen to the rich allegories of Jewish tradition, particularly the Aggadata tales of the Talmud. These stories have long provided intellectual and spiritual nourishment, offering timeless lessons that resonate even today.

Consider the tale of Rabbi Akiva’s students, who perished in a plague. Rabbi Akiva, a towering figure in Jewish history, lost 24,000 students during a devastating plague. The Talmud attributes this plague to the students’ failure to respect one another.² This story is not just about physical loss but a profound moral lesson on unity, compassion, and mutual respect. It is a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of our relationships, especially during global crises.

Modern Insights: The Timelessness of Torah

While some may view the Hebrew Bible as a relic of the past, I have found it to be a timeless guide offering wisdom for contemporary dilemmas. Professor Hazony’s Zoom course, “The Big Questions About Judaism,” reinforced this notion, showing how the Torah continues to illuminate human striving.

Hazony highlighted how the Torah addresses fundamental questions that are still relevant today. For instance, the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt is not merely a historical account but a meditation on leadership and the struggle for freedom—concepts that resonate deeply in our current world.³

Reflecting on the Parsha each week, I find Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ insights particularly illuminating. In his essay on Parsha Ki Tavo, Rabbi Sacks emphasizes that the Torah is more than a collection of laws or philosophical musings; it is a series of stories probing fundamental questions about identity and purpose. This perspective has deepened my connection to these ancient texts, helping me find relevance and direction in their teachings.⁴

Navigating a Sea of Knowledge

We live in an era of unprecedented access to information. A wealth of resources is at our fingertips, from Torah texts and commentaries to films and online courses. While this abundance can be overwhelming, it also means there is something for everyone, regardless of their spiritual or intellectual journey.

The saying, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear,” resonates deeply with me. Finding the right teacher has been crucial in my journey. My studies with Yehudis Golshevsky at Shiviti Yeshiva have been transformative, deepening my understanding and connection to these teachings. Shiviti Yeshiva offers more than educational instruction; it provides a supportive community focused on personal growth and spiritual development, integrating traditional Jewish wisdom with contemporary relevance.

A Journey Beyond the Pandemic

The insights I have gained during the pandemic will continue to guide me as we move forward. The Torah, film, and modern teachings have been more than sources of comfort; they have been essential tools for navigating our challenges. These resources will remain vital in helping us better understand ourselves and the world as we look ahead. This journey to find meaning is ongoing, and with each step, we inch closer to a clearer understanding of who we are and where we are headed.

FOOTNOTES:

  1. Lowery, David. “The Green Knight: A Hallucinatory Journey into the Surreal and Subconscious.” The Ringer, 30 July 2021, www.theringer.com/movies/2021/7/30/22599207/the-green-knight-david-lowery-hallucinatory-surreal.
  2. Talmud. Yevamot 62b. Sefaria, https://www.sefaria.org/Yevamot.62b?lang=bi.
  3. Hazony, Yoram. “The Big Questions About Judaism.” Zoom.
  4. Sacks, Jonathan. “Parsha Ki Tavo.” Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, 2024, https://www.rabbisacks.org/essay-parsha-ki-tavo/.

Does Antisemitism Matter?

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In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a flood of misinformation clouds the truth. This isn’t just a distant debate; it’s a struggle with real-life consequences, shaping perceptions and affecting communities worldwide. The rising tide of antisemitic rhetoric demands our attention, and it’s crucial to confront these falsehoods with truth and compassion. The impact is deeply personal and far-reaching, harming individuals and communities alike.

Bradley Martin’s article, The Soviet Roots of Far-Left Antisemitism, serves as an essential resource for understanding why antisemitism persists today. The Soviet Union’s Cold War strategy, which included supporting certain Middle Eastern groups and influencing the Palestine Liberation Organization’s charter, wasn’t just about geopolitical maneuvering. It planted seeds of distrust and animosity that continue to affect today’s conflicts and political discourse.

When prestigious universities like Oxford, Columbia, and Yale grapple with antisemitism, it becomes clear how deep and pervasive this problem is. This issue is not merely academic or political; it speaks to how we treat each other as human beings. Understanding the roots of this hatred allows us to address it with the empathy and seriousness it deserves.

The Personal Impact of Antisemitism

Misinformation about Israel and Judaism isn’t just abstract; it has genuine consequences for our communities. Harmful myths like “Zionism is racism” or “Israel is an apartheid state” fuel prejudice, discrimination, and even violence. The often-misattributed quote, “If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually come to believe it,” reveals the insidious power of persistent false narratives.

In 2023, the Anti-Defamation League reported a significant rise in antisemitic incidents worldwide, including acts of vandalism and harassment. The defacement of Jewish cemeteries in cities across the globe is not just a random act of hate—it’s a direct result of the spread of lies and misinformation. What may begin as rhetoric has real-world consequences, leading to dangerous cycles of violence and discrimination.

But what drives this hatred? To truly understand, we must delve into the ideologies that fuel these prejudices.

Understanding Ideological Roots

In Not In God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks urges us to consider how ideologies can distort our moral compass, leading us down paths of violence—a phenomenon he terms “altruistic evil.” He explains how extremist groups manipulate our natural desire to do good, twisting noble intentions into harmful beliefs that deepen prejudices.

Rabbi Sacks also examines the “us against them” mentality, which many of us have encountered in different forms. This mindset promotes hostility toward outsiders and encourages scapegoating, trapping communities in cycles of victimhood that stifle growth. By contrasting dualism—seeing the world as a battle between good and evil—with monotheism, which recognizes that each person is capable of good and bad actions, Rabbi Sacks offers a path toward mutual understanding and peace.

Moreover, he explores how antisemitism has been used to justify wrongs against Jews and Israel. These false narratives distort reality and deepen divisions. Rabbi Sacks warns that embracing a victim mentality ultimately undermines our shared humanity, a lesson we must heed as we navigate the complexities of modern life.

Pathways to Reconciliation

While these ideologies can feel deeply entrenched, history shows reconciliation is possible. Rabbi Sacks highlights the historic shift in relations between the Jewish community and the Vatican after the Holocaust as a powerful model for healing. The Nostra Aetate Declaration of 1965 was not just a symbolic gesture; it marked a profound change, demonstrating that even deeply rooted issues can be addressed with courage and dialogue.

In Jewish tradition, the concept of “teshuvah”—repentance or reconsideration—offers a way forward. It reminds us that even the most profound divisions can be healed with sincere effort and commitment. In a world increasingly divided by misinformation and hatred, teshuvah teaches us that reconciliation is always within reach—but only if we are willing to seek it.

Footnote:

  1. Martin, Bradley. “The Soviet Roots of Far-Left Antisemitism.” Newsweek, 18 May 2022, www.newsweek.com/soviet-roots-far-left-antisemitism-opinion-1707931.
  2. “Not in God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence” by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks was published by Schocken Books in 2015.

Navigating Antisemitism Through Jewish Wisdom and Tradition: The Passover Seder

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As we emerge from the pandemic, the world feels like it’s grappling with a rising tide of racism, prejudice, and antisemitism. The heartbreaking events surrounding George Floyd’s death and the harrowing discovery of Aboriginal children’s graves in Canada have highlighted the urgent need for us to confront these entrenched issues. For the Jewish community, this moment has been marked by a distressing rise in antisemitic incidents, including harassment and violence. Yet, amid this growing hostility, the Jewish people continue to show incredible resilience and a determination to overcome these challenges.

In times of adversity, Jewish wisdom offers essential guidance. Our traditions provide us with principles to face antisemitism with strength and dignity. Rabbi Hillel’s timeless advice—“That which is hateful to you, do not do unto others”—serves as a foundational reminder. This principle of empathy, woven throughout the Torah, encourages us to respond with compassion, even when faced with hostility.

The Israeli Example

Israel embodies this commitment to empathy through its rich biblical heritage. The nation’s dedication to values like “not oppress the stranger” stands out. While criticism often labels Israel as “apartheid” or “colonialist,” it’s important to recognize the significant roles Israeli Arabs play in various sectors, including government and the military. Israel’s social welfare initiatives reflect the Torah’s call to “care for the widow and the orphan,” providing universal free medical care and education. Though views on Israel’s legal and social systems may vary, the nation strives to uphold these core principles.

Moreover, Israel’s compassion shines through its global humanitarian efforts. From responding to the Surfside condo collapse in Florida to delivering medical supplies to disaster-stricken areas, these actions reflect a commitment to helping others—embodying the empathy many of us aspire to uphold.

Rabbi Sacks on Antisemitism

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks deeply explored the roots of antisemitism, stressing the importance of empathy in overcoming prejudice. His book Not in God’s Name reminds us that the Creator’s love encompasses all humanity. Rabbi Sacks advocates for fostering brotherly love through education as a means to counteract hatred. His teachings resonate profoundly, reinforcing the lessons from our traditions that empathy and understanding are essential in our fight against prejudice.

Cultivating Profound Education

For generations, storytelling, questioning, and analysis have been powerful ways to impart values like love and empathy. One example is the Passover Seder, a gathering that turns historical events into relatable experiences, especially for children.

At the Seder, we eat matzah, symbolizing the bread our ancestors ate during their suffering in Egypt. The bitter herbs, or marror, serve as a reminder of oppression. These rituals connect us to the struggles of our ancestors and evoke the bitterness of their experiences. By reflecting on these symbols, we deepen our understanding of suffering and resilience, fostering compassion for others as we navigate our own struggles today.

Empathy Through Rituals

A significant moment during the Seder involves dipping a finger into our wine for each of the Ten Plagues, a ritual that prompts us to reflect on the suffering endured by the Egyptians. This act emphasizes our shared humanity and the importance of compassion. The Haggadah beautifully encapsulates this sentiment: “We were slaves to Pharaoh in the land of Egypt. And the Lord, our G-d, took us out from there with a strong hand and an outstretched arm.” Every year, as we recount this story, we reaffirm our resilience and remember our journey.

A Personal Tradition

At my family’s Passover table, we share stories of survival—how we endured the Holocaust in Hungary and later escaped to Montreal from Soviet Hungary. These narratives of perseverance reflect our enduring spirit and illustrate the power of shared stories in fostering empathy.

I believe that if more people could experience a Passover Seder, it would pave the way for greater understanding and compassion, ultimately reducing global animosity. By embracing our traditions and sharing our stories, we can combat antisemitism and promote a culture of empathy that resonates beyond our community. I encourage everyone to learn about or even participate in a Seder, as it fosters meaningful dialogue and connection, helping to break down barriers.

Footnotes:

  1. Hillel, Talmud Shabbat 31A
  2. “Do not oppress the stranger,” Exodus Chapter 22:20
  3. “Care for the widow and the orphan,” Exodus Chapter 22:21-22
  4. “Do not bear a grudge against your neighbour,” Leviticus Chapter 19:18
  5. Not in God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, Schocken Books, 2015

Jewish Tradition through Words, Stories, and Prayer

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The Jewish tradition places great importance on words, stories, and prayer as they form the foundation of spiritual connection and communal identity. In May 2014, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks delivered a powerful speech at the inauguration of the National Library of Israel, where he emphasized the crucial role of language as the sacred conduit between human existence and divine infinity. In Judaism, language is considered a divine dialogue, where the Torah represents celestial discourse, and prayer is humanity’s reverent reply. Rabbi Sacks’ words serve as a testament to the enduring significance of this sacred interplay, guiding us toward a more profound understanding and spiritual fulfillment.

“It was that power of words, the gift of language, that was the greatest gift of all that  G-d gave to Adam and Adam alone.

This then becomes the “Gesher tzar me’od”– the very narrow bridge – that crosses the abyss between finite humanity and the infinity of G-d.
In short, Judaism is an ongoing conversation between that once-and-once-only divine voice that sounded at Sinai and the human interpretation of those words that has continued in every generation since. It is a great conversation that never ended.

The whole of Judaism is that ongoing “conversation” between Israel and G-d as to how we understand G-d’s word for all time to make it G-d’s word for our time.”¹

Foundations of Jewish Culture

Building on Rabbi Sacks’ insight, the Torah and the Siddur (Jewish prayer book) are the primary foundations of Jewish culture and civilization. The Torah narrates divine conversations with individuals, showcasing the dynamic relationship between humanity and G-d. At the same time, the Siddur becomes a vital tool for humans seeking to communicate with the divine.

The Torah contains detailed accounts of divine conversations with individuals, as documented in Genesis. These dialogues, from Adam in the Garden to Abraham and Rebecca, exemplify the dynamic relationship between humanity and G-d. Even in moments of struggle, such as when Rebecca inquires about the twins in her womb, G-d provides guidance and insight.

The children struggled together within her, and she said, ‘If it is thus, why is this happening to me?’ So she went to inquire of the Lord. And the Lord said to her, ‘Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, and the older shall serve the younger.’²

Different Avenues of Communication with the Devine

There are various ways to communicate with G-d. This includes praying for things you need, such as when Isaac asked G-d to bless Rebecca with children. People have also received messages from G-d through dreams, as seen with Jacob and Joseph. The Book of Genesis teaches that G-d is always available to individuals during personal and family challenges.

And Isaac prayed to the Lord for his wife, because she was barren. And the Lord granted his prayer, and Rebecca his wife conceived.³

Teaching Prayer to Young Minds

Yael Zoldan discusses her children’s book on prayer, “When I Daven,” and suggests that even young children can grasp the basics of worship. By teaching them fundamental concepts such as gratitude, mindfulness, and awareness of the world around them, preschoolers can develop an appreciation for the essence of prayer.

At its core, prayer is an ongoing conversation and communication with the Divine. The Cantor, acting as the messenger of the people, expresses their thoughts and emotions in the communal space, embodying the essence of this sacred dialogue.

As we explore the texts of Judaism, from the stories in Genesis to the intricate prayers in the Siddur, we participate in a conversation that has endured for generations. Our ancestors communicated with the Divine, and we continue to engage in this holy discourse daily. Whether we pray privately, contemplate our thoughts, or worship in a community, prayer is evidence of the unbreakable bond between humanity and G-d.

Footnote:

“Rabbi Sacks: Home of the Book.” National Library of Israel, https://blog.nli.org.il/en/rabbi-sacks-home-of-the-book/.

“Parshat Toldot: Torah Reading.” Chabad.org, Chabad-Lubavitch Media Center, https://www.chabad.org/parshah/torahreading_cdo/aid/2492504/jewish/Toldot-Torah-Reading.htm.

The Tanakh: The Holy Scriptures. Jewish Publication Society, 1985. Sefaria, https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.25?lang=en.

Finding Strength in Uncertainty: Lessons from Rosh Hashanah

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, takes us on a spiritual journey of tradition, introspection, and hope. In the synagogue, a four-hour ceremony unfolds, where the resounding blasts of the shofar—a hollowed-out ram’s horn—are sounded at key moments throughout the service. These powerful blasts create a sacred atmosphere filled with reverence and devotion, inviting participants to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. However, conveying the joy and depth of this celebration to those unfamiliar with it can be a challenge.

As we immerse ourselves in these ancient prayers, which have endured for millennia, we discover deeper insights into the human condition. Rosh Hashanah encourages us to pause, seek blessings for the year ahead, and recognize the struggles we all face in life. This dual focus on hope and reality resonates not just individually but within our community, reminding us that we share this journey together.

Facing Uncertainty with Reverence

In a world of uncertainty, Rosh Hashanah serves as a reminder of life’s fragility, encapsulated in the ancient prayers reverberating through the sanctuary—a sacred space for reflection and connection. One particular prayer captures this profound tension:

“On Rosh Hashanah, it is inscribed, and on Yom Kippur, it is sealed – how many shall pass away and how many shall be born, who shall live and who shall die, who in good time, and who by an untimely death, who by water and who by fire, who by sword and who by wild beast, who by famine and who by thirst, who by earthquake and who by plague, who by strangulation and who by lapidation, who shall have rest and who wander, who shall be at peace and who pursued, who shall be serene and who tormented, who shall become impoverished and who wealthy, who shall be debased, and who exalted.”¹

Even as a child, the message of this prayer is hard to ignore. It speaks to the inevitable uncertainties we all face. Yet, the concluding lines offer a glimmer of hope amidst the tension:

“תשובה, תפילה וצדקה מעבירין את רוע הגזרה”
(Teshuva, tefillah, u-tzedakah ma’avirin et ro’ah ha-gzera) — “Repentance, prayer, and acts of charity can avert the severity of the decree.”²

Only through teshuva (repentance or self-correction), tefillah (prayer), and tzedakah (deeds of justice and charity) can we hope to mitigate the severity of G-d’s decree.

Turning Inward with Purpose

Rosh Hashanah also calls us to introspection. In his book One God Clapping, Rabbi Lew describes teshuva as a turning inward, a purposeful realignment of our perceptions. This is echoed in the shofar’s call, which reminds us to reflect on our actions before the divine.

“The essential act of the High Holidays is teshuva, a turning toward mindfulness, and the first step in this process is a kind of tuning in to examine our perceptive mechanisms. When the shofar blows, it reminds us to turn our gaze inward, to shift our focus from the outside world to the window through which we view this world. Teshuva, at this time of the year, is the opportunity to assess privately our own behaviour before G-d. The expression is that at this time, especially ‘G-d is in the field,’ i.e. accessible to us human beings.”³

Even during the pandemic, we gathered for communal worship in Montreal, adapting to the circumstances by shortening the service, wearing masks, and maintaining distance. Despite these changes, the significance of the moment remained profound. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks beautifully captures this sentiment in his reflections, emphasizing how our traditions endure even in challenging times, providing us joy and guidance.

“The various questionnaires and research exercises that have been done recently on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on people’s lives came up with an unusual finding… People can’t plan for the future. They can’t know what tomorrow is going to bring… And that is undermining their sense of security.”⁴

Finding Strength in Uncertain Times

The pandemic has created widespread insecurity, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our daily lives. However, Rabbi Sacks reminds us of “bitachon,” the Jewish concept of intertwining faith with security, which has been a source of resilience for thousands of years. From Abraham’s journey into the unknown to our present-day struggles, faith has guided us through uncertainty.

“So, the question I simply want to ask these Yamim Noraim, on these Days of Awe, is, ‘How do we deal with insecurity?’ And the answer is contained, or at least the Jewish answer is contained, in that one word, ‘bitachon’ – the word that means security on the one hand and faith on the other.

How do you cope with insecurity? By faith. That has been the Jewish experience for almost 4,000 years. Judaism is about insecurity in a way, perhaps that no other religion is, and Jews have experienced insecurity in a way no other people have. The Jewish story begins with Abraham and Sarah just hearing a voice, calling them away from their family and their birthplace to a land that they did not know… They are traveling to an unknown destination; they are traveling blind.

As I’ve argued many times, in Judaism, faith is not certainty. Faith is the courage to live with uncertainty.”⁵

The Essence of Jewish Resilience

This is the essence of the Days of Awe. Rosh Hashanah reminds us of the cyclical nature of life, inviting us to explore our humanity’s depths and emerge renewed and resilient. Rabbi Sacks’ wisdom calls on us to navigate life’s uncertainties with faith, guiding us toward growth and spiritual connection.

Whether we gather in person or virtually, let us embrace these teachings with reverence and joy. May they usher in a year filled with health, prosperity, and blessings of peace.

Footnote:

  1. Unetaneh Tokef. Siddur: Prayer Book for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Jewish Virtual Library, 2021, https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/unetaneh-tokef.
  2. “Teshuvah, Tefillah, Tzedakah.” Chabad.org, https://www.chabad.org/therebbe/article_cdo/aid/2301372/jewish/Teshuvah-Tefillah-Tzedakah.htm.
  3. Lew, Rabbi. One God Clapping: The Spiritual Path of a Zen Rabbi. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/308109.One_God_Clapping.
  4. Sacks, Jonathan. Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times. Basic Books, 2020. Google Books, https://books.google.com/books?id=pZnfDwAAQBAJ.
  5. Sacks, Jonathan. “The Days of Awe: A Jewish View of Faith and Insecurity.” The Rabbi Sacks Legacy Trust, 2020, www.rabbisacks.org/the-days-of-awe-a-jewish-view-of-faith-and-insecurity/.