Parahsat Shemot

December 24, 2021
13 Tevet 5782
Parashat Shemot
Exodus 1:1 - 6:1

Dear Friends,

As we come to the end of 2021, it seems fitting that we are in the process of beginning Exodus, the second book of the Torah, also called Shemot, which means names.  It is a reminder that names matter, not only what others call us but what we call ourselves. How do we see ourselves? Are we confined by the boundaries set by others or are we able to see ourselves in the fullness of ourselves, created as we are in the Divine image? These questions are a lifelong exploration.

In our story, Moses steps out of the boundaries set for him by his position, sees the injustice in the world around him, and acts in opposition to it, whether "it" is a task master beating a slave or shepherds harassing a group of sisters trying to water their sheep. In his d'var Torah, Rabbi Rob Scheinberg points out the parallels between the lives of Moses and the Buddha. When inside of the palace, neither could see the pain, injustice and need for healing of the outside world.

With that in mind as we come to the end of the calendar year, I invite yo to listen to a conversation with our young people. Although the conversation is about blessings, it is also about stepping beyond the walls of ourselves and those around us.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Linda Shriner-Cahn