D'var Torah

Since the second day of Passover, we have been in a period of counting the Omer, the seven-weeks between Pesach and Shavuot. Each day, we say a blessing followed by the counting itself. For example, tonight we will say: “Today is ten days, which is one week and three days of the Omer.” 

The Omer has multiple meanings. The most traditional Jews refrain from certain celebrations such as weddings during this time, in remembrance of some of the catastrophes that have struck the Jewish people. 

However, the Omer also has a more celebratory function. Biblically, it marks the time from the beginning of the barley harvest until its peak. In addition, the Midrash tells us that after the people came through the Red Sea (marked by Pesach), they were told they would receive the Torah 50 days later (Shavuot). According to this interpretation, the Omer is a period of joyous anticipation, as they counted the days until their revelation. Even more, it represents the development of the Israelites from a newly freed but aimless group of tribes into a mature and enlightened people. It is about renewal and growth. 

I hope that all of us, even in this difficult moment, can find avenues for this type of Omer. I am immensely thankful to the congregation for the opportunity to take such a time beginning next week for three months, the second half of a six-month sabbatical. (I took the first half last year.) During this time, I will engage in study of both Torah and rabbinic skills. I also plan to travel with my family to Italy and Spain. And, on June 15, I’ll be able to make the most of my twin sons, Aaron and Jonah, becoming B’nai Mitzvah. I hope you can join us! See the back cover of the May Connection or click here for the invitation.

I know I speak for the whole clergy team in appreciation of the Temple community, for providing us with time every seven years to learn and recharge. I look forward to returning in August, renewed.

Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom, and I hope to see you on June 15!

Rabbi Jeff Saxe