Devarim- Shabbat of Vision
As we have concluded our first week back at Shul for weekday services and we look forward to our first Shabbat service since March 2020, I would like to sincerely thank our executive and helpers for all their support during this challenging period.
I am proud and inspired by the many acts of kindness that have been done for each other.
I thank Hashem for keeping our community safe during this period yet at the same time reflect on the fact that so many have passed away in our wider community and we will be reciting a special memorial Teffilah on the first Shabbat.
I am aware and understand that some of you may be unable to attend shul and other public places for the time being. As other members start returning to Shul, I want you to know that you are not forgotten. You are still an integral and valued part of our community and we will continue to be in contact with you. If you feel you need support in any way, please do contact with me or the shul. at Shul.
The essence of community is a sense of connection and I am inspired by the number of phone calls made between congregants to ensure no one feels alone during this period.
Our Zoom services, talks, events and our Whatsapp group have been an incredibly positive development for many in our community. It has also enabled us to connect with the Southport community, St Annes Shul members living far away as well as other friends and family. I am sure that moving forward we will continue to incorporate a number of these technological solutions to benefit our Jewish communal life.
Chazak Chazak Venitchazek
Last Shabbat we concluded the book of Bamidbar. This book essentially is the conclusion of the Torah as Devarim is the concluding sermons of Moses. At the end of Bamidbar the Israelites had completed their 42 journeys and are encamped on the Transjordan poised to enter the Holy land.
Upon completing a book of the Torah, the custom is for the congregation to recite aloud together Chazak chazak venischazek – “Be strong Be Strong and We will be Strong”.
Last week we sadly missed that opportunity to celebrate the conclusion of the book as our shul was closed but there is deeper meaning to this phrase that provides us with the needed inspiration at this time.
Chazak Chazak – “When we dedicate our time and resources to strengthening others” then
Venitchzazek- “We ourselves will be strengthened”
In other words when we give of ourselves to others, we find ourselves. If we are feeling lost the best solution is to find ways to give to others. The Hebrew for giving ונתנו is a palindrome teaching us that when we give of ourselves we are also giving to ourselves.
Shabbat of Vision
Finally, this Shabbat is the week prior to Tisha Be’av commemorating the destruction of the Temples and is known as Shabbat Chazon. It is named after the Haftorah from Isaiah which begins with “Chazon Yehsayah” – the vision of Isaiah and concludes with “Zion will be redeemed with justice, and its captives, with tzedakah.”
Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev (great 18th century Chassidic master) taught a deeper reason for the name of this Shabbat. He said that on the Shabbat of Vision “every Jew is shown from afar a vision of the future Beis HaMikdash”
In other words rather than seeing the 9 days as a complete tragedy, the Shabbat prior to Tisha Be’av represents an opportunity for us to transform the darkness of spiritual exile to the light of redemption.
The Covid 19 pandemic has created many challenges globally, locally and personally. There is no denying that this period has been dark filled for many. But Judaism teaches us the power of transformation. That each of us through our free will can look for the small positive points in any situation and by focussing on them transform his or her situation for the better.
For those returning to shul it will be noticeable the lack of atmosphere through social distancing, wearing of masks and the current guidance on restricting singing. This can make us feel the service is sterile lacking the “Ruach” we rightfully expect and spiritually need. However, we can still be uplifted by the fact that once again the Holy Kaddish can be recited. Once again, we can pray to Hashem as a community which has greater potency than individual Teffilah. The service may be “quieter” than usual, but God is found in the “small still voice” (1 Kings 19:12) that flutters within each one of our hearts.
Shabbat Shalom