Dear Friends,
As we transition from the High Holidays to Sukkot, we know that Sukkot is a time to be happy; zman simchateinu. One of the important aspects of the Festival of Sukkot is bringing together the four species, the lulav or palm, the willow, the myrtle, and the etrog or citron. Separately, each of these species is an important item, but together they represent the symbol of Jewish unity. What can we do to build unity in our community? When we recite Hiney Mah tov umanayim from Psalm 133, we talk about how good and pleasant it is when we come together. How special it is when a group of diverse people come together to create something special. I hope we can learn from the symbolism of the lulav that there is great strength when we join with our members of our community to try to perform mitzvot and acts of tikkun olam, repairing our world. I hope we can all pledge to be involved in some way to make our world a better place.
By the way, we are all watching the story of the potential release of Gilad Shalit and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family that he might enjoy freedom. The cost to the Israelis is significant as they trade a large number of prisoners for him,. Once again, whether we agree or disagree politically with this action, we learn again that to save one life is to save an entire world and this Jewish value seems to be at least part of the motivation for the Israelis to make this deal. We wish all involved G-d’s guidance as they make difficult decisions.
Hag Sukkot Sameach!
Rabbi Bruce