D'var Torah

Shabbat Shalom!

It was such a joy to see many of you during my installation weekend. I feel so warmly welcomed here at TRS! I am simply having the best time getting to know this community, and I’m looking forward to meeting those of you who I haven't met yet at upcoming services and holidays.

This week, we have a double parasha and one of them, Parashat Nitzavim, contains one of my most favorite moments in all of Torah. The Israelites, past, present, and future, are reminded that the mitzvot, God’s commandments and laws, are not in the heavens and not beyond the sea, but much, much closer. These mitzvot are near to each of us- in our own mouths, hands, and hearts to observe. (Deut. 30 12-14) Not only do we hear these words on Shabbat morning this week, but this sentiment is so important, that we will hear parts of this parasha repeated in a few weeks in our Torah portion on Yom Kippur morning.

At this time of year, as we find ourselves in a season of introspection and renewal approaching the High Holy Days, I think this sentiment holds special meaning. I find these words so encouraging, as they inspire me to bring Jewish ideas, teachings, commandments and rituals, closer to my heart.

Take a moment and think of something you have always wanted to do. Maybe you’ve always wanted to bake challah or understand the Hebrew in a certain prayer. Maybe you’ve always wanted to chant Torah or lead a Passover seder for your family. Maybe you want to try going to services more often or try singing with one of our choirs. If you’ve felt like that thing, that ritual, that moment of observance, or that aspect of Judaism, is out of your reach, this parasha is here to remind you that it is not.  As members of the Jewish family, these sacred traditions belong to each one of us, and are ours to learn about, try on, and make our own. This season of reflecting and growing is a great time to take the leap and embrace something new.

I can’t wait to see all of you soon and learn about what rituals and commandments are inspiring you, challenging you, and sparking new joy in your heart.

Shabbat Shalom, and an early Shana Tova!

Cantor Sydney Michaeli