The Sacred Dialogue: Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ Insight
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.”
(Rabbi Jonathon Sacks’ speech at the inauguration of the National Library of Israel, May 2014).
The Torah and Siddur: Foundations of Jewish Culture
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, while 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.
And the children struggled within her, and she said, “If [it be] so, why do I live?” And she went to inquire of the Lord.
And the Lord said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two kingdoms will separate from your innards, and one kingdom will become mightier than the other kingdom, and the elder will serve the younger.” (Toldot verses 22-23)
Different Avenues of Communication with G-d
There are different ways to communicate with G-d. This includes praying for things you need, like when Isaac asked G-d to bless Rebecca with children. People have also received messages from G-d through dreams, like Jacob and Joseph. Some believe the Book of Genesis teaches that G-d is always available to individuals during personal and family challenges.
And Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife because she was barren, and the Lord accepted his prayer, and Rebecca, his wife, conceived. (Toldot verse 21)
Teaching Prayer to Young Minds
Yael Zoldan, in her discussion of her children’s book on prayer, “When I Daven,” suggests that even young children can understand 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 captivating 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. Following this established tradition, we can discover comfort, motivation, and spiritual fulfillment in the ongoing dialogue between Israel and G-d.