Tag Archives: Spiritual Growth

Living in Jerusalem: A Journey Through Torah and Tradition

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Since moving to Jerusalem in early April, I’ve found that each day feels like a gift, even amidst the challenges of living in a place under constant threat. Whether it’s news of battles in Gaza or missiles from Syria and Lebanon, the reality of living in a land that is often at war is always present. Yet, life here is so much more than these headlines.

One of the things that has enriched my time here is the incredible opportunity to study Torah in person, nearly every day, with some truly exceptional teachers. There’s a deep sense of community in these learning spaces, where men, women, children, and mixed groups come together, bonded by our shared heritage and the pursuit of wisdom. It’s hard to describe how much the Torah and halacha—Jewish law—shape our lives here. They guide everything, from how we interact with one another to how we care for the land and even how we understand the concept of war.

As Shavuot approaches, I reflect on this significant moment when, according to our tradition, the Jewish people stood at the base of Mount Sinai and received the Torah over 3,300 years ago. This isn’t just an ancient story; it’s a living, breathing part of who we are today.

Counting of the Omer

The forty-nine days between Passover and Shavuot are marked by a practice called “Counting the Omer.” Initially tied to sacrificial offerings in the ancient Temples of Jerusalem, today, it serves as a period for personal growth, a time to prepare ourselves spiritually to receive the Torah anew. Here in Jerusalem, spring is in full bloom, and as I walk the streets lined with fruit trees, there’s a sense of renewal and anticipation in the air.¹

Pursuing Spiritual Fulfillment

During these weeks, many of us dive into the teachings of Pirkei Avot, or the Ethics of the Fathers, which is filled with wisdom on how to live a meaningful life. One teaching that has particularly resonated with me this year is from Chapter 1, verse 3:

“Do not be like slaves who serve their master for the sake of reward, but be like slaves who serve their master not for the sake of reward.”²

This idea, as Rabbi Moshe Snow of the OU Teaching Center in Jerusalem explained, reminds us that the valid reward of Torah study isn’t material but spiritual—a deep, abiding connection to something greater than ourselves.³

Weekly Torah Study

One resource that has been invaluable to me is the weekly Torah Tidbits magazine, published by the OU here in Jerusalem. This free publication is filled with insights on the weekly Torah portion and has become a regular part of my Shabbat preparations.⁴

All-Night Torah Study

As we approach Shavuot, I’m particularly looking forward to the all-night Torah study sessions held in communities worldwide. These sessions culminate in a sunrise prayer service, where we read the Torah portion recounting the Ten Commandments. There’s something profoundly moving about being part of a community committed to learning and growing together, especially in these challenging times.

Unity and Strength

In a place like Israel, where the threat of war is never far from our minds, it’s easy to see our military strength as the backbone of our security. However, living here has shown me that our true strength comes from our unity, faith, and unwavering commitment to the Torah’s values. We are commanded to stand up for one another, to redeem hostages, and never stand idly by when we see our brothers and sisters in danger.

Israeli influencer Sivan Rahav-Meir captured this sentiment beautifully in her Shavuot message:

“The festival of Shavuot calls upon us to rise to the next level — that of authentic unity, unity for its own sake… We simply gathered joyfully at Mount Sinai, and there, we received our identity.”⁵

This message feels more urgent than ever. The unity we find through our shared history and values sustains us and will carry us forward, no matter our challenges.

A Night of Learning with Rav Kook’s Wisdom

Recently, I attended a class with Rabbi Goldscheider⁶, who shared some of Rav Kook’s ideas about learning on Shavuot night. What struck me most was his advice to study what truly speaks to your heart and to remember the importance of taking care of your physical health as a foundation for spiritual growth. It was a refreshing reminder that Torah study isn’t just an intellectual exercise but a holistic journey involving the mind, body, and soul.

As I prepare for Shavuot this year, I’m filled with gratitude—for the learning, the community, and the opportunity to be part of this incredible tradition. I wish everyone a hag sameach, a joyous holiday filled with the kind of unity and peace that Shavuot represents. May we all find ourselves under the Divine Umbrella of Peace and Justice, living in harmony with one another and the world.

Wishing you a holiday filled with learning, growth, and unity.

Footnotes:

  1. Chabad.org. “What Is the Counting of the Omer?” Chabad.org, www.chabad.org/holidays/passover/pesach_cdo/aid/87150/jewish/What-Is-the-Counting-of-the-Omer.htm.
  2. Chabad.org. “Pirkei Avot: The Translated Text, Selected Insights, Audio Classes, and Stories for the Children.” Chabad.org, www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/282399/jewish/Pirkei-Avot-Ethics-of-the-Fathers.htm.
  3. Rabbi Moshe Snow. “Author Bio.” Otzar HaTorah, https://outorah.org/author/138548/.
  4. Faculty of the OU. “Torah Tidbits: Parshat Bechukotai – Issue 1566 – Individual Articles.” Torah Tidbits, www.torahtidbits.com/parshat-bechukotai-issue-1566-individual-articles.
  5. Rahav-Meir, Sivan. Daily WhatsApp. Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, tiny.cc/DailyPortion.
  6. OU Israel. “Video Library.” OU Israel, Orthodox Union, https://www.ouisrael.org/video-library/.

A Season of Miracles and Light

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The holiday season always brings to mind the miracles surrounding us, even in the everyday things we might take for granted. Think about it: the electricity that powers our homes, the roads and cars that connect us to the world, the wonder of flight that lets us soar across continents, and the films and the internet that bring stories and people into our lives. And then there’s love—the most profound miracle of all—grounding us in peace and connection, whether at home or across the globe.

Reflecting on these modern miracles, I am reminded that they did not happen overnight. Behind every innovation were struggles, doubts, and an unwavering belief in the impossible. Perhaps that is why the miracles in my life feel even more profound—they came with challenges, making them all the more meaningful.

My Recent Miracles

Miracle 1: Finding a Home in Jerusalem

Israel has always felt like a second home to me, where my roots are intertwined with my ancestors’ rich history and faith. Over the years, my trips to Israel have transformed into spiritual journeys shaped by my studies at Shiviti and Simhat Shlomo—two Jewish institutions.

On my last trip in April, I searched for a place to live. This task proved challenging, especially with my limited budget and Jerusalem’s tricky rental market. There were moments of doubt when I wondered if I’d ever find a place that felt right. Then, I discovered a small, affordable apartment—not luxurious, but in a neighbourhood I love.

I vividly remember stepping into that apartment for the first time. The cool air carried a faint scent of jasmine from a nearby garden. The space was modest yet filled with natural light, and as I stood in the empty rooms, a quiet sense of peace enveloped me, almost as if the city were welcoming me home. The apartment is tranquil, just a short walk from the lively Emek Refaim Street, with its bustling shops, cafes, and the cinemas I enjoy.

Returning to Israel right after the Jewish Fall Holidays, I was determined to make this place my own. Over the next five weeks, I poured my heart into transforming that small apartment into a home. Each step—arranging furniture and hanging mezuzot on the doorways—deepened my connection to this land.

Miracle 2: Rediscovering the Streets of Jerusalem

Decades ago, as a student at Hebrew University, I wandered the streets of Jerusalem on foot. Back then, the city had a quieter, more intimate feel, and its narrow lanes seemed to whisper secrets from the past.

During my recent visits, I was struck by Jerusalem’s transformation. The quiet, small city I once knew has become a lively, modern metropolis. Buses, trains, and highways now integrate seamlessly into its historic surroundings, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with traffic, construction, and the lively chatter of a diverse crowd.

Before the Six-Day War in 1967, Jews could not access the Western Wall or the Old City. Today, these sacred sites are open to everyone, and the city has expanded in ways I never imagined. Yaffo Street, once a simple route to the Old City, now features a sleek tram—a surreal contrast of modern elegance against ancient stones. Ben Yehuda Street, where I used to stroll as a student, has transformed into a bustling pedestrian mall filled with cafes, shops, and the constant buzz of city life.

I was particularly fascinated by Kikar Hamusika, a lovely square near Ben Yehuda that I stumbled upon for the first time. Drawn by the enchanting music of a violinist, I found myself surrounded by people chatting and laughing at nearby tables. In that moment, I felt the vibrant energy of the city—deeply connected to its history yet incredibly alive in the present.

Miracle 3: Reconnecting with Old Friends

The day after I arrived in Jerusalem, my brother-in-law, Shragai, called to tell me about a gathering at Barbara Friedman’s apartment. Barbara, a fellow Montrealer, had invited us to catch up, making it the perfect way to reintegrate into the city’s social scene.

As I entered her apartment, the scent of freshly baked challah enveloped me, along with the warmth of familiar faces and old friendships. One friend had even brought a guitar, and before long, we found ourselves singing together, including a delightful children’s song about Noah’s Ark. It was a sweet moment, especially since it was the Friday before Shabbat, a time for reflecting on the stories of our ancestors and the lessons they teach.

Surrounded by music and laughter, our lasting connections felt even more meaningful despite the years and distance that kept us apart. It was a beautiful reminder that some bonds, like tree roots, grow stronger over time, keeping us tied to the people and places we hold dear.

Miracle 4: Immersing in the European Cantors Convention in Budapest

On November 1st, I travelled from Israel to Hungary to attend the European Cantors Convention at the Rumbach Street Synagogue in Budapest. This place is special to me as it’s where my parents married during World War II. Being in that space, filled with personal and communal history, was incredibly moving.

The synagogue itself was a marvel—its walls steeped in history, yet echoing with the voices of the present. To capture the essence of the convention, I hired a local cameraman to document the event. It was an opportunity to listen to incredible cantors like Benny Meisels, Deborah Katcko-Grey, and Leah Frey Rabiner and reconnect with my family’s roots. With my cousins, I explored Budapest and uncovered our shared history, making this trip about more than just music—it was a journey into my family’s past.

Standing in the synagogue where my parents once stood, under the same ceiling that had witnessed so much joy and sorrow, I felt a deep connection to them and the generations before them. These interviews and experiences are the foundation of a documentary I’m working on about the convention. The event was filled with meaningful discussions and beautiful music; I can’t wait to share that with others.

Miracle 5: Rediscovering Our Family Heritage in Hungary

I had the opportunity to travel with Rachel, Tehila, her daughter, and Effy Fadida from Israel to the ancestral lands of our Hungarian Jewish forefathers. During our visit, we explored places like Tokay, Szabolcs, Kereztur, and Debrecen, accompanied by locals who helped us understand our family’s deep connections to these locations.

In Kereztur, we paid our respects at the resting place of Reb Shiele, a revered Hassidic Rebbe, and enjoyed kosher meals that felt like a link to our ancestors. The air was filled with the aroma of traditional Hungarian dishes, and as we gathered, the conversation flowed easily, full of stories of the past and hopes for the future. It was a meaningful experience to be in these places that still hold the echoes of our heritage, connecting us to a legacy of faith and community.

Our time in Tokay and Debrecen was remarkable. Visiting the Rebbe’s resting place at night felt almost dreamlike—a moment of quiet reflection after a day of exploring our roots. The stillness of the night, broken only by the rustling of leaves and the distant sound of a river, created an atmosphere of calm and peace. In Debrecen, we connected with relatives who survived the horrors of the Holocaust, their resilience serving as a strong reminder of the strength of our people. Our experience was even documented in the Hungarian Jewish Debrecen Community Bulletin, where I translated our visit into English.

Miracle 6: The Resilience of My Christmas Cactus

When I returned to Montreal, I was greeted by a small but significant miracle—my Christmas cactus was in full bloom. It had been cared for by a talented local plant expert while I was away, and seeing those bright blossoms felt like a symbol of hope and resilience. The vibrant pink flowers, standing against the gray of winter, were a reminder that life persists, even in the harshest conditions.

In a world that often feels dark, small lights—whether a blooming plant, a cherished friendship, or a connection to our heritage—remind us of the miracles surrounding us. Like the Maccabees, who overcame great odds, we can find strength and light in the most unexpected places.

As we move through this holiday season, may our homes be filled with peace, joy, and the warmth of these everyday miracles.

Am Yisrael chai—The People of Israel are alive! Am Yisrael thrives! And when Am Yisrael thrives, the world thrives!

Wishing you all a happy and meaningful holiday season.

With warmth,
Abigail

How to Create Peace: Personal and Communal

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Rabbi Nir Menussi’s teachings illuminate hope for anyone searching for peace in their personal lives and communities. Through his engaging podcasts and stories, he guides us on a journey toward individual and collective harmony, drawing from the rich well of Jewish tradition. Rabbi Menussi invites us to explore Teshuvah—returning to our most authentic selves—and inspires us to reflect, improve, and pursue lasting peace with renewed hope and direction.

Hanukkah, the festival celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, resonates deeply with our ongoing quest for global harmony. Rabbi Menussi’s wisdom provides valuable perspectives on how we can actively work toward this noble goal.

In one enlightening podcast episode titled “Awakening Teshuvah,” Rabbi Menussi reflects on whether his Torah talks inspire listeners to make positive changes in their lives, such as deepening their commitment to their faith. He shares:

“People awaken to Teshuvah – self-improvement and spiritual growth – not when censured or rebuked, but when they are helped to recognize their sins on their own.

There is something inherently paradoxical about the awakening of Teshuvah. On the one hand, it must start from within. On the other hand, only the chick knows when to break out of its egg. If someone tries to hatch the egg prematurely, its growth can be ruined. This is what criticism and rebuke often do: they make a person shrink back, thereby hindering their development. Because Teshuvah entails the unpleasant realization that we’re not living optimally, we react with defense mechanisms. These can manifest as either self-justification or self-flagellation. In either case, the result is the same: we further entrench ourselves in our everyday lifestyle and don’t change.”

This paradox reveals a crucial lesson: motivating someone toward Teshuvah is a delicate art. The story of Tamar and Judah in this week’s Torah portion from Genesis 38 illustrates this well. Tamar, having been widowed twice, disguises herself to seduce Judah, who later unknowingly leaves his belongings behind. When Tamar becomes pregnant, Judah initially condemns her but later confesses his wrongdoings when confronted with his belongings. Tamar’s wisdom leads to Judah’s repentance and the birth of twins who become ancestors of King David and the Messiah.

The Path of Self-Improvement

Our journey toward Teshuvah—a path of self-improvement and spiritual growth—begins not with criticism but with understanding. Those who guide us must also work on improving themselves. Adverse treatment hinders progress, but sincere and empathetic guidance can inspire genuine change.

In another podcast, “The Secrets of Jewish Progress,” Rabbi Menussi explores social change through the example of Jacob and Esau. After two decades of rivalry, their reunion offers insights into Western culture intertwined with Jewish tradition. He reflects:

“The king is dead; long live the king!”

This familiar phrase, often heard at the coronation of a new ruler, might seem paradoxical at first. It highlights a significant change in leadership, shifting focus from the old to the new. This tradition mirrors a profound aspect of Western culture—the tendency to erase the past and start anew, which contrasts with Judaic principles.

The Torah describes a series of Edomite kings who ruled before Israel had its king. This repetition symbolizes a recurring pattern in Western civilization, where each revolution attempts to dismantle previous systems and establish a new order.

From Revolutions to Reckonings

History shows a pattern of revolutions replacing old regimes with new ones, each seemingly representing the peak of progress. From ancient Greece and Rome to the French Revolution and beyond, each upheaval has sought to redefine society, only to be replaced by the next wave of change.

Today, we face the consequences of recent revolutions:

  • The rapid adoption of smartphones has led to increased screen time for children and remedies like YouTube Kids.
  • The impact of the sexual revolution on traditional values has resulted in challenges such as early exposure to pornography and discussions about gender identity.

These examples highlight the evolving landscape of our society and the challenges we face as we navigate the aftermath of past revolutions.

My Own Slow Pace

Esau’s story illustrates a recurring pattern of impulsiveness and regret. He once dismissed his birthright for a bowl of stew and later felt deceived. His unpredictable behaviour contrasts with Jacob’s cautious approach. Jacob is dedicated to making slow and careful progress, highlighting the importance of taking a measured approach to change.

“I will move at my own slow pace.” Jacob’s commitment to eschew impulsivity is unwavering, despite sharing similar aspirations with his brother Esau, who has an inclination towards the allure of immediate gratification. Fear of neglecting critical considerations drives Jacob’s cautious approach as he navigates the pursuit of his ambitions. Two distinct factors contribute to Jacob’s deliberate strategy: “According to the pace of the work that is before me” and “According to the pace of the children.”

This cautious approach to progress is a hallmark of Jewish thought. We accept the past but carry its lessons into the future, balancing tradition with innovation. We move step by step, integrating new insights while responding to contemporary needs.

As the Sages say, “The innovator has the lower hand.” This suggests that those challenging the status quo must first embrace and elevate the existing structure. By integrating past wisdom with new ideas, innovators connect with history and carry its richness into the future.

Footnotes

  1. Caschetta, A.J. “Lessons from London: You Can’t Fix Jihad.” The Hill, 26 Feb. 2020, www.thehill.com/opinion/international/484020-lessons-from-london-you-cant-fix-jihad.
  2. Menussi, Nir. Awakening Teshuvah. Podcast, www.examplepodcasturl.com/awakening-teshuvah.
  3. Menussi, Nir. The Secrets of Jewish Progress. Podcast, www.examplepodcasturl.com/secrets-of-jewish-progress.

Yom Kippur: Beyond the Rituals

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Tonight begins Yom Kippur, the sacred Day of Atonement in Judaism. As we embark on this solemn journey, grappling with the concept of atonement may be difficult. Yom Kippur urges us to contemplate, repent, and ask for forgiveness. The rituals and traditions of this holy day raise questions about their significance.

On this sacred day, there are five prescribed abstentions:

  1. Refrain from eating and drinking.
  2. Avoid wearing leather shoes.
  3. Abstain from bathing or washing.
  4. Do not anoint oneself with perfumes or lotions.
  5. Abstain from marital relations.

How do we interpret these abstentions?

Abstaining from routine activities such as eating, drinking, and social interactions holds symbolic significance within our spiritual practices. It allows us to seek a connection with the divine through sincere vulnerability. This state of being stripped down and solitary enables us to approach God authentically.

Fasting serves as a tangible expression of repentance and spiritual contemplation. Conversely, refraining from wearing leather shoes symbolizes humility before the divine. Additionally, abstaining from bathing, using perfumes or lotions, and engaging in marital relations underscores the prioritization of spiritual needs over physical comforts. Collectively, these abstentions create an atmosphere of solemnity, fostering deeper engagement in prayer and facilitating spiritual growth.

So, what is our directive?

During Yom Kippur, the Jewish community gathers in the synagogue to pray individually and connect with G-d. As a community, they confess their sins and seek forgiveness, even though G-d grants forgiveness individually. This forgiveness transforms a day of fear and solemnity into a festive occasion, as G-d establishes “at-one-ment” between humanity and Himself. In Hebrew, “Teshuva” signifies the annual opportunity to return to G-d by acknowledging one’s transgressions and seeking forgiveness. This is the essence of atonement.

Yom Kippur follows the model of the first day of G-d’s forgiveness when the Israelites received absolution for worshiping the golden calf in the desert while Moses ascended the mountain to receive the Heavenly Torah.

The Lord said to Moses: “I have seen these people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people. Now leave Me alone so that My anger may burn against them and consume them. Then I will make you into a great nation.”

Moses went back to the Lord and spoke:

“Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made gods of gold for themselves. Yet now, if You would only forgive their sin. But if not, please blot me out of the book that You have written.”*1

Thus began the initial real-life process of sin and reconciliation between G-d and the Children of Israel. Despite their transgressions, this path eventually led to ultimate reconciliation and forgiveness. The day of absolution came forty days later when Moses descended the mountain for the second time. On this occasion, G-d accepted the People’s remorse, and Moses presented the second set of Tablets, the Jewish covenant. This narrative serves as the foundational model for the observance of Yom Kippur.

Yom Kippur as a Framework for Reconciliation

Yom Kippur provides a framework for seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with G-d after significant missteps. Despite its fasting rituals, the day embodies not only solemnity but also joy, reconciliation, and the prospect of stepping into the future revitalized.

How does this transformation process happen?

I recently found a helpful video by Rabbi Manis Friedman explaining forgiveness and reconciliation. He discusses two types of forgiveness. The first is natural forgiveness, where you forgive someone who has hurt you to let go of the pain. However, this may not restore the relationship to its previous state.

The second type is forgiveness of reconciliation, occurring when the wrongdoer admits their mistake and genuinely seeks forgiveness. This type can lead to significant change, as realizing the person’s importance in your life can soften your heart. You can watch the video from 9:12 to 20:28 min here.

Moreover, I’ve realized how important this insight is for addressing the struggles of Indigenous and black communities facing historical racism. The complexities surrounding “apologies” make these challenges even more intricate.

Are these apologies genuinely sincere?

This question arises when we receive an apology, and it is not always easy to answer. There are two types of apologies: a simple “I’m sorry” without any commitment to change, and the second, where the person acknowledges their past wrongs and promises to make things right. This second type is more meaningful, as it brings about justice and helps in reconciliation, leading to a deeper mutual understanding and stronger relationships than before.

Embracing the Lessons of Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur exemplifies the power of self-reflection, repentance, and the journey to forgiveness. It offers a timeless framework that resonates deeply with our contemporary struggles for justice and healing. As we navigate the complexities of forgiveness, may we draw inspiration from the rituals of this sacred day, embracing the potential for personal and communal transformation. By acknowledging our shortcomings and committing to meaningful change, we can foster deeper connections and a more compassionate world.

Footnote:

  1. www.biblehub.com