Take a Fresh Look at Judaism
Where do we look for answers to
life’s big questions? Judaism is
chock-full of wisdom and insights for creating a meaningful, joyous life.
Do you think Judaism
is all about guilt?
Judaism gets a bad rap
when it comes to guilt. Perhaps it’s because Yom Kippur is one of the
most observed holidays among Jews that we mistakenly think Judaism is focused
primarily on blame and fault. The Torah,
however, explains that we each are created betzelem Elokim, in the image
of the Divine. What we do with this
divine spark is up to us, but Judaism gives us infinite opportunities to grow
and develop and to reinforce our connection with the Almighty. When we make mistakes and come up short,
instead of fostering feelings of guilt, Judaism encourages us to pause,
restock, and figure out how to do better.
Do you think there are no female Jewish role models?
From ancient times to now,
Jewish women have been a key part of our history, nurturing and guiding and
inspiring us all. In our darkest time
during slavery in Egypt, it was women who kept the Jewish people going, never
losing hope that days would get better and would triumph, and refusing to give
in to despair. We model our behavior
towards guests on the hospitality of our matriarch Sarah, and we model the way
we pray on a Jewish woman in the Torah named Chana. Each Purim we read the
story of Queen Esther who saved the Jewish people. After we crossed the Red
Sea, Miriam, the sister of Moses, taught us to sing, dance, and celebrate
freedom and life. On Shavuot, we recall Ruth, the ultimate model of interfaith,
love, and loyalty. In every generation,
Jewish women have sustained us, strengthening the Jewish body and nurturing the
soul of humankind.
Do you believe that Judaism has little to say about life’s
pressing issues?
From the Psalms of King
David, to the ancient insights of King Solomon, to modern day thinkers, Judaism
is teeming with faith and knowledge that addresses the many issues we face
every day. The Talmud alone is an
encyclopedic work that addresses every topic under the sun, sharing its
timeless wisdom on issues such as property rights, environmentalism, the
ethical treatment of animals, settling disputes, treating people with respect,
behavior in times of peace and conflict, and countless other real-world
dilemmas.
Do you think the synagogue is where Judaism takes place?
For thousands of years, the Jewish home has been the center of Jewish life. In Hebrew, the Jewish home is referred to as a Mikdash Me'at - a mini Temple that each of us has the power to create. It's a place where we instill our core values in the next generation; where we teach and learn; where rituals are performed and spirits grow; and where we watch with pride as life joyfully unfolds.
Judaism has the power to transform us, turning us
into more spiritual beings. Each time we enjoy a delicious family Shabbat
dinner, we’re deepening our connection with the Divine. When we give tzedakah
(charity), perform acts of kindness, celebrate Jewish holidays, and put
Jewish teachings into practice, we are connecting to eternal truths and
spiritual principles that brings out our inner potential, elevating us and the
world.
Do you think Judaism is only about Jewish
history? Think again – Judaism is a
vehicle for transforming our very souls.
Rabbi Stuart A. Paris, HaKohen
We thank you in advance for your help and generosity.
