D'var Torah

It seems like a lucky coincidence that my last e-letter falls on the week when we chant the oldest blessing in Jewish tradition: the Priestly Benediction, or Birkat Kohanim. These famous lines of Parshat Naso have accompanied so many wonderful lifecycle moments and have enriched those moments with blessing.

In a traditional Jewish service, the Kohanim, or descendants of the priestly line, approach the bima towards the end of the Amidah. They wrap their tallitot over their heads, make a “v” sign with their hands, and bless the community with these words. I have had the opportunity to witness this a few times in an egalitarian setting, with famous cantors of our time chanting the lines with flourishing chazzanut (traditional recitative). While this tradition is powerful and meaningful, I appreciate how the Reform movement has taken the Priestly Benediction and made it for everyone- not just for Kohanim. We all have the opportunity to receive a blessing and give one as well.

It is said that the community makes the blessing, not the individual. I find that to be so incredibly true of Temple Rodef Shalom. I have had the honor of bestowing this blessing upon many of you. However, you have taken that blessing forward through your words and acts of Torah.

Temple Rodef Shalom has brought innumerable blessings into my life, and I am so very grateful. I hope to celebrate our time together on June 9th and June 11th, but if you’re unable to make it, I know you are there in spirit. I have been so lucky to serve this congregation. My memories here have shaped who I am, and I will carry our time with me always.

In gratitude, and with wishes for a Shabbat shalom-

Cantor Rachel Rhodes