Dear Congregants:
I am pleased to continue to send you these commentaries on the week's Haftorah portion.
Today, it appears to be a matter of entitlement to get an Aliyah on Saturday at Beth Shalom. It used to be customary for almost all who were called to the torah to pledge a donation to the synagogue for receiving that honor and the misheberach [blessing] that went with it.
IT IS NO ROUTINE MATTER TO BE CALLED TO THE TORAH AND TO BE BLESSED THERE.
I suggest that we remember the custom of our elders and pledge a donation to the synagogue when you receive an Aliyah. Being called to the torah is a special honor and showing your recognition of this by making a charitable gift is both fitting and proper.
I commend this practice to you all.
Parshat Vayakhel
(1 Kings 7:40-50)
24 Adar 1 5768
March 1, 2008
Much like this week's parashah, the haftarah seems like an exhaustive list of the varied and different appurtenances crafted by King Hiram for King Solomon and by Solomon himself for the Temple. The inventory is quite detailed, naming the utensils, from what they were crafted and their exact specifications, as for example: "All of the vessels in the House of the Lord that Hiram made for King Solomon were of burnished bronze (nehoshet memorat)" (Verse 45)
The exact meaning of the word "memorat" is an open question which is further complicated by the fact that in the parallel version of this passage found in the book of Chronicles a different word is used: "nehoshet maruk" (2 Chronicles 4:16) which literally means "well scoured bronze". The apparent intention of both terms seems to be that after the utensils were fashioned, they were carefully polished to a fine shine. (See here Ezekiel 21:15 "barak morata - polished) Another possibility is that this term is indicative of a high quality of bronze. This definition seems to be the one chosen by Josephus, who describes the bronze utensils in the Temple in these words: "and all the remaining bronze vessels had the appearance and beauty of gold" (Antiquities 8:88, Shalit ed. p. 275) (Y. Kil, 1 Melakhim, Daat Mikra, p. 150) This explanation is in agreement with Targum Yonatan which translates these words: "good bronze". Rabbi David Kimche similarly explains: "pure and clean from rust and any impurity."
This question is also dealt with in the Talmud, in a passage notable for a number of curiosities: Our Rabbis taught: There was a pipe in the Sanctuary which was smooth and thin, made of reed, and from the days of Moses, [and its sound was pleasant]. The king commanded to overlay it with gold, whereupon its sound was no more pleasant. Then its overlay was taken off, and its sound was pleasant again as before. There was a cymbal in the Sanctuary from the days of Moses, made of bronze, and its sound was pleasant; then it became damaged. The Sages sent for craftsmen from Alexandria of Egypt, and they mended it, but its sound was not pleasant any more. Thereupon they removed the improvement and its sound became as pleasant as it was before. A bronze mortar was in the Sanctuary, from the days of Moses, and it would mix the spices. When it became damaged the Sages sent for craftsmen from Alexandria of Egypt who mended it, but it would no more mix the spices as well as it used to. Whereupon, they removed the improvement, and the mortar mix them well again as before. There were two vessels left over from the first Sanctuary, and after they had been damaged there was no remedy for them. It is with reference to them that David said: 'They were of burnished brass" (above verse 45), and "bright brass" (2 Chronicles 4:16). In connection with them it is said also: "And two vessels of fine bright brass, precious as gold" (Ezra 8:27)." (Arachim 10b)
Four things stand out in this passage: 1. The passage clearly sides with the latter definition of "memorat" as fine bronze, while the debate over distinguishing the difference between the term used in Kings and the term used in Chronicles continues on in the medieval commentators on this passage; 2. We find an awkward identification of the verse from Kings with David – a historical impossibility already identified and corrected by the medieval Tosafot who identify the source of the verse as "scripture"; 3. The passage identifies the utensils dealt with in these verses as a cymbal and a mortar; 4. The lesson of the passage, however, seems to focus on a more "folksy" message. Some things are better off not be altered, adulterated, or "improved".
This study piece is offered as a service of the United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva. It is prepared by Rabbi Mordechai (Mitchell) Silverstein, senior lecturer in Talmud and Midrash at the Conservative Yeshiva. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.
With the permission of The United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem, Rabbi Edward S. Romm - Director of Education
© 2007
Shabbat Shalom,
Henry Ray Wengrow
For the Ritual Committee
Beth Shalom
Friday, February 29, 2008
Weekly Announcements, 2/29
Saturday, March 1–9:45 a.m. During Shabbat services we will present an award to June Licata. June leaves Beth Shalom after 12 years of voluntary service. We will miss her friendly face and constant willingness to help. Todah Rabah!
Sunday, March 2–10 a.m. 7th Grade Family Education
Program–Mizrach Making.
Wednesday, March 5–6:30 p.m. Fundraising Committee meeting in the library.
Friday, March 7–6 p.m. Early Shabbat evening services followed by "Sharing Shabbat at Home," community Shabbat dinners at host families homes.
Sunday, March 9:
10 a.m. 6-10th Grade trip to the Columbia Holocaust Memorial.
12:30 p.m. Rabbi Siff will be conducting a Kosher Baking Certification session. Anyone who would like to bring home-baked goods in the synagogue must sign up for the class.
Monday, March 10–7 p.m. Rosh Chodesh Dinner Club meeting at the home of Irene Milliman, 5223 Circle Drive.
Tuesday, March 11–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting in the library.
Wednesday, March 12:
6:30 p.m. Executive Board of Directors meeting in the library.
7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting in the library.
Friday, March 14–6:30 p.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Saturday, March 15–9:45 a.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Sunday, March 16–11:15 a.m. Purim Carnival in the Social Hall. Bring a dry or canned food item as an entrance fee for the Purim Carnival. Tickets for unlimited games: $5 per person. Lunch: $3 per person (pizza, hamantaschen & soda). Hamantaschen and other refreshments. We encourage all to come in costume!
Tuesday, March 18–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "The Book of Splendor" by Francis Sherwood.
Wednesday, March 19–2 p.m. Silver & Gold Tea for our Senior members (at Wildewood Downs).
Thursday, March 20:
5:45 p.m. Purim Festivities beginSpaghetti Dinner. Purim Dinner will include spaghetti, garlic bread and salad. Adults: $6, Children (under 12 yrs.): $3.
Maximum cost per family: $15. RSVP to the office.
6:30 p.m. Costume Parade and Megillah reading.
7:30 p.m. Hamantaschen & desserts will be served.
Saturday, March 22–8 p.m. 1st Annual Purim Party Wine Tasting. Featuring outstanding kosher for Passover wines from Israel (Social Hall).
Sunday, March 2–10 a.m. 7th Grade Family Education
Program–Mizrach Making.
Wednesday, March 5–6:30 p.m. Fundraising Committee meeting in the library.
Friday, March 7–6 p.m. Early Shabbat evening services followed by "Sharing Shabbat at Home," community Shabbat dinners at host families homes.
Sunday, March 9:
10 a.m. 6-10th Grade trip to the Columbia Holocaust Memorial.
12:30 p.m. Rabbi Siff will be conducting a Kosher Baking Certification session. Anyone who would like to bring home-baked goods in the synagogue must sign up for the class.
Monday, March 10–7 p.m. Rosh Chodesh Dinner Club meeting at the home of Irene Milliman, 5223 Circle Drive.
Tuesday, March 11–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting in the library.
Wednesday, March 12:
6:30 p.m. Executive Board of Directors meeting in the library.
7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting in the library.
Friday, March 14–6:30 p.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Saturday, March 15–9:45 a.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Sunday, March 16–11:15 a.m. Purim Carnival in the Social Hall. Bring a dry or canned food item as an entrance fee for the Purim Carnival. Tickets for unlimited games: $5 per person. Lunch: $3 per person (pizza, hamantaschen & soda). Hamantaschen and other refreshments. We encourage all to come in costume!
Tuesday, March 18–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "The Book of Splendor" by Francis Sherwood.
Wednesday, March 19–2 p.m. Silver & Gold Tea for our Senior members (at Wildewood Downs).
Thursday, March 20:
5:45 p.m. Purim Festivities beginSpaghetti Dinner. Purim Dinner will include spaghetti, garlic bread and salad. Adults: $6, Children (under 12 yrs.): $3.
Maximum cost per family: $15. RSVP to the office.
6:30 p.m. Costume Parade and Megillah reading.
7:30 p.m. Hamantaschen & desserts will be served.
Saturday, March 22–8 p.m. 1st Annual Purim Party Wine Tasting. Featuring outstanding kosher for Passover wines from Israel (Social Hall).
Monday, February 25, 2008
Weekly Announcements, 2/25
Upcoming Events:
Help support the Religious School. Don't miss out on our Passover Candy Sale. You can pick up an order form in the foyer and return it with payment, to the office. Sale ends Thursday, February 28th. Thank you for your support!
Jewish Cultural Arts Used Book Sale
February 26th through March 2nd.
10 a.m. till 7 p.m.
Will be held at the Katie & Irwin Kahn Jewish Community Center. HUGE selection of Paperbacks 2 for $1, Children's 2 for $1, Fiction, Nonfiction, etc. $2 and up. Coffee table books and encyclopedia sets $5 and up. We will also have puzzles and text books.
Tuesday February 26:
6:30 p.m. Sisterhood Board meeting in the library.
6:30 p.m. Ritual Committee meeting in the social hall.
Thursday, February 28:
5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry.
6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
7:30 p.m. In anticipation of the beginning of the celebration of Israel's 60th birthday, we will host in the Beth Shalom Social Hall an educational program on "The Meaning of Zionism in Today's World." Speakers will include Mr. Jeremy Gimpel, a former American now living in Israel and the host of highly successful Israeli talk show, our Resident Scholar, Dr. Leon Spotts, who is a recognized authority on Israel,others. Several Christian groups who are highly supportive of Israel, will join us to participate in the discussion. We look forward to welcoming members of Beth Shalom Synagogue and all interested members of the community to this forum.
Saturday, March 1:
9:45 a.m. During Shabbat services we will present an award to June Licata. June leaves Beth Shalom after 12 years of voluntary service. We will miss her friendly face and constant willingness to help. Todah Rabah!
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation.
Sunday, March 2–10 a.m. 7th Grade Family Education Program–Mizrach Making.
Wednesday, March 5–6:30 p.m. Fundraising Committee meeting in the library.
Friday, March 7–6 p.m. Early Shabbat evening services followed by "Sharing Shabbat at Home," community Shabbat dinners at host families homes. See insert flyer to RSVP for this Shabbat dinner and for more details.
Saturday, March 8–10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Sunday, March 9:
10 a.m. 6-10th Grade trip to the Columbia Holocaust Memorial.
12:30 p.m. Rabbi Siff will be conducting a Kosher Baking Certification class. Anyone who would like to bring home-baked goods in the synagogue should sign up for the class.
Monday, March 10–7 p.m. Rosh Chodesh meeting at the home of Irene Milliman, 5223 Circle Drive.
Tuesday, March 11–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting in the library.
Wednesday, March 12:
6:30 p.m. Executive Board of Directors meeting in the library.
7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting in the library.
Friday, March 14–6:30 p.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Saturday, March 15–9:45 a.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Help support the Religious School. Don't miss out on our Passover Candy Sale. You can pick up an order form in the foyer and return it with payment, to the office. Sale ends Thursday, February 28th. Thank you for your support!
Jewish Cultural Arts Used Book Sale
February 26th through March 2nd.
10 a.m. till 7 p.m.
Will be held at the Katie & Irwin Kahn Jewish Community Center. HUGE selection of Paperbacks 2 for $1, Children's 2 for $1, Fiction, Nonfiction, etc. $2 and up. Coffee table books and encyclopedia sets $5 and up. We will also have puzzles and text books.
Tuesday February 26:
6:30 p.m. Sisterhood Board meeting in the library.
6:30 p.m. Ritual Committee meeting in the social hall.
Thursday, February 28:
5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry.
6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
7:30 p.m. In anticipation of the beginning of the celebration of Israel's 60th birthday, we will host in the Beth Shalom Social Hall an educational program on "The Meaning of Zionism in Today's World." Speakers will include Mr. Jeremy Gimpel, a former American now living in Israel and the host of highly successful Israeli talk show, our Resident Scholar, Dr. Leon Spotts, who is a recognized authority on Israel,others. Several Christian groups who are highly supportive of Israel, will join us to participate in the discussion. We look forward to welcoming members of Beth Shalom Synagogue and all interested members of the community to this forum.
Saturday, March 1:
9:45 a.m. During Shabbat services we will present an award to June Licata. June leaves Beth Shalom after 12 years of voluntary service. We will miss her friendly face and constant willingness to help. Todah Rabah!
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation.
Sunday, March 2–10 a.m. 7th Grade Family Education Program–Mizrach Making.
Wednesday, March 5–6:30 p.m. Fundraising Committee meeting in the library.
Friday, March 7–6 p.m. Early Shabbat evening services followed by "Sharing Shabbat at Home," community Shabbat dinners at host families homes. See insert flyer to RSVP for this Shabbat dinner and for more details.
Saturday, March 8–10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Sunday, March 9:
10 a.m. 6-10th Grade trip to the Columbia Holocaust Memorial.
12:30 p.m. Rabbi Siff will be conducting a Kosher Baking Certification class. Anyone who would like to bring home-baked goods in the synagogue should sign up for the class.
Monday, March 10–7 p.m. Rosh Chodesh meeting at the home of Irene Milliman, 5223 Circle Drive.
Tuesday, March 11–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting in the library.
Wednesday, March 12:
6:30 p.m. Executive Board of Directors meeting in the library.
7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting in the library.
Friday, March 14–6:30 p.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Saturday, March 15–9:45 a.m. Anna Kline Bat Mitzvah.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Judaica Shop has a Gift Registry
Beth Shalom Sisterhood
Gift Shop
Can solve your problems....
There is a Bar⁄Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Registry at the Gift Shop.
Anna Kline's Bat Mitzvah is coming up and she has registered at the
Gift Shop for many of our wonderful gift items.
Please call Naomi Freedman, 787-1882 or
the synagogue office, 782-2500 to make an appointment.
Is your husband still wearing his Bar Mitzvah tallis?
Are your kiddush cups chipped and dented?
Are your mezuzzahs weather beaten?
Is it ok to replace Aunt Sadie's challah knife?
If YES is the answer to any of these questions -
Beth Shalom Gift Shop - can solve your problems!
Are you looking to spend a couple of hours in a worthwhile activity?
Are your days long, with nothing to do? Volunteer at Beth Shalom Gift Shop.
Beth Shalom Gift Shop - can solve your problems!
Hours:
Wednesday - 4:30 - 6:15 p.m.
Sunday - 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Or by appointment at 782-2500
5827 North Trenholm Road
Gift Shop
Can solve your problems....
There is a Bar⁄Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Registry at the Gift Shop.
Anna Kline's Bat Mitzvah is coming up and she has registered at the
Gift Shop for many of our wonderful gift items.
Please call Naomi Freedman, 787-1882 or
the synagogue office, 782-2500 to make an appointment.
Is your husband still wearing his Bar Mitzvah tallis?
Are your kiddush cups chipped and dented?
Are your mezuzzahs weather beaten?
Is it ok to replace Aunt Sadie's challah knife?
If YES is the answer to any of these questions -
Beth Shalom Gift Shop - can solve your problems!
Are you looking to spend a couple of hours in a worthwhile activity?
Are your days long, with nothing to do? Volunteer at Beth Shalom Gift Shop.
Beth Shalom Gift Shop - can solve your problems!
Hours:
Wednesday - 4:30 - 6:15 p.m.
Sunday - 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Or by appointment at 782-2500
5827 North Trenholm Road
Monday, February 18, 2008
Maggid & Master Spiritual Storyteller
Beth Shalom Welcomes
Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum &
Master Spiritual Storyteller Carole Forman
SCHOLARS-IN-RESIDENCE
Join us for Shabbat Dinner
Friday, February 22nd
after family services
(early services will begin at 6:00 p.m.)
Chairs: Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders
Dinner will include Mediterranean chicken, rice,
hummus, babaganoush & pita bread, salad, challah
and baklava & fruit for dessert. “
Kid-friendly” fun food will be served at the kid’s tables.
Join your family & friends to honor Shabbat with a
delicious dinner at Beth Shalom.
Fun for kids-of-all-ages, guaranteed!
Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5
Maximum cost per family: $25
Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum &
Master Spiritual Storyteller Carole Forman
SCHOLARS-IN-RESIDENCE
Join us for Shabbat Dinner
Friday, February 22nd
after family services
(early services will begin at 6:00 p.m.)
Chairs: Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders
Dinner will include Mediterranean chicken, rice,
hummus, babaganoush & pita bread, salad, challah
and baklava & fruit for dessert. “
Kid-friendly” fun food will be served at the kid’s tables.
Join your family & friends to honor Shabbat with a
delicious dinner at Beth Shalom.
Fun for kids-of-all-ages, guaranteed!
Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5
Maximum cost per family: $25
Please Note: Your mailed-in check will be your reservation. Sorry, we cannot guarantee dinners for those without reservations. Checks need to be received by Wednesday, February 20th. Reservations will be taken on a first-come, first-pay basis, for the first 120 seats.
Make your checks payable to Beth Shalom Synagogue and mail your check and reservation form (below) to: Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 North Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206 ************************************************************************
Family Shabbat Dinner - Friday, February 22, 2008 Name______________________________ Phone___________________________ Number Attending: Adults_____________ Children___________
Amount Enclosed $________________
Friday, February 15, 2008
Weekly Announcements, 2/15
Help support the Religious School. Don't miss out on our Passover Candy Sale. You can pick up an order form in the foyer and return it with payment, to the office. Thank you for your support!
Saturday, February 16 10 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. "Seeds of the Sun" concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC. Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at 787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17: 10 a.m. No Hebrew School
10:30 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving "Jeff" Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes Cemetery.
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Paid-Up Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Thursday, February 21: 6:30 p.m. Midrasha and ALL Teens in the Community. Yitzhak and Carole will share the topic: "Stories are the Light of the World." From Genesis to Adam Sandler we tell stories about who we are; discover how to discern your story and your unique light in our world!
8:00 p.m. Adult Education Academy. Yitzhak and Carole join the Adult Academy to share the tales of "Hasidic Tales from The Baal Shem Tov and other Masters." All are welcome! Friday,
February 22: 6:00 p.m. 5th & 6th Grade Service SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Brief family services followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner with a focus on stories for families. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum and Carole Forman will tell stories for adults and children, "Tales from the Heaven in the Heart." Maggid Buxbaum says that all the tales are really about us. How can we attain the happiness we dream about?
6:45 p.m. Family Shabbat dinner. Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5, Maximum cost per family: $25. Your mailed-in check will be your reservation. Checks need to be received by Wednesday, February 20th. You can drop off your check and RSVP form with the office or mail it to: Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 N. Trenholm Road Columbia, SC 29206. Thank you to Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders for chairing this Shabbat dinner!
Saturday, February 23: 9:45 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Shabbat morning services, during which Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will speak on the topic: "Entering the Garden of Eden While Alive with Your Boots On." How can we make our Judaism come alive? How can we come alive and live most fully as Jews?
11:15 a.m. Carole Forman will join the Shabbat Sheli-Tot Shabbat! Ages 2 yrs–5 yrs are welcome with your parents.
Sunday, February 24: 10 a.m. 6th Grade Family Education Program - "Putting G-d on the Guest List"
10 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Adult Education Seminar. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will offer a program on "The Mystic Teaching Legacy of the Baal Shem Tov." Bagel & lox brunch $4 per person.
1:30 p.m. Community Wide Teacher in-service "The Art of Storytelling."
Thursday, February 28: 5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry from 5-8 pm.
6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
Saturday, March 1: 9:45 a.m. During Shabbat services we will present an award to June Licata. June leaves Beth Shalom after 12 years of voluntary service. We will miss her friendly face and constant willingness to help. Todah Rabah!
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation.
Nadia Vardi is doing a special project for her Bat Mitzvah, collecting items for Pets Incorporated, a non-kill animal shelter in West Columbia. There is a collection box at the Religious School entrance to the synagogue. Please take a moment and drop something in for the animals. The products that they are in need of are: Wet pet food, tennis balls and toys, collars and leashes, cat trees, pens, markers, staples, opened paper: white, yellow, or blue, liquid dish detergent, bleach and laundry detergent, pine cleansers, paper towels, rubber gloves, peanut butter, cotton swabs, baby oil or mineral oil, pill bottles, blankets, towels, wash cloths & children's coats.
Saturday, February 16 10 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. "Seeds of the Sun" concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC. Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at 787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17: 10 a.m. No Hebrew School
10:30 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving "Jeff" Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes Cemetery.
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Paid-Up Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Thursday, February 21: 6:30 p.m. Midrasha and ALL Teens in the Community. Yitzhak and Carole will share the topic: "Stories are the Light of the World." From Genesis to Adam Sandler we tell stories about who we are; discover how to discern your story and your unique light in our world!
8:00 p.m. Adult Education Academy. Yitzhak and Carole join the Adult Academy to share the tales of "Hasidic Tales from The Baal Shem Tov and other Masters." All are welcome! Friday,
February 22: 6:00 p.m. 5th & 6th Grade Service SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Brief family services followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner with a focus on stories for families. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum and Carole Forman will tell stories for adults and children, "Tales from the Heaven in the Heart." Maggid Buxbaum says that all the tales are really about us. How can we attain the happiness we dream about?
6:45 p.m. Family Shabbat dinner. Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5, Maximum cost per family: $25. Your mailed-in check will be your reservation. Checks need to be received by Wednesday, February 20th. You can drop off your check and RSVP form with the office or mail it to: Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 N. Trenholm Road Columbia, SC 29206. Thank you to Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders for chairing this Shabbat dinner!
Saturday, February 23: 9:45 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Shabbat morning services, during which Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will speak on the topic: "Entering the Garden of Eden While Alive with Your Boots On." How can we make our Judaism come alive? How can we come alive and live most fully as Jews?
11:15 a.m. Carole Forman will join the Shabbat Sheli-Tot Shabbat! Ages 2 yrs–5 yrs are welcome with your parents.
Sunday, February 24: 10 a.m. 6th Grade Family Education Program - "Putting G-d on the Guest List"
10 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Adult Education Seminar. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will offer a program on "The Mystic Teaching Legacy of the Baal Shem Tov." Bagel & lox brunch $4 per person.
1:30 p.m. Community Wide Teacher in-service "The Art of Storytelling."
Thursday, February 28: 5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry from 5-8 pm.
6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
Saturday, March 1: 9:45 a.m. During Shabbat services we will present an award to June Licata. June leaves Beth Shalom after 12 years of voluntary service. We will miss her friendly face and constant willingness to help. Todah Rabah!
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation.
Nadia Vardi is doing a special project for her Bat Mitzvah, collecting items for Pets Incorporated, a non-kill animal shelter in West Columbia. There is a collection box at the Religious School entrance to the synagogue. Please take a moment and drop something in for the animals. The products that they are in need of are: Wet pet food, tennis balls and toys, collars and leashes, cat trees, pens, markers, staples, opened paper: white, yellow, or blue, liquid dish detergent, bleach and laundry detergent, pine cleansers, paper towels, rubber gloves, peanut butter, cotton swabs, baby oil or mineral oil, pill bottles, blankets, towels, wash cloths & children's coats.
Parshat Ki Tissa
Dear Congregants:
When I was a boy growing up in Beth Shalom being given an Aliyah was a special event and I was even taught special rules for the distribution of Aliyot. The first Aliyah of any day's reading is reserved for a Kohan, the second for a Levite, and priority for the rest of the Aliyot were specified according to specific events in the person's life. For example someone with a new baby was called up or the groom was called the Saturday before the wedding. A person having a yartzeit either on that day or shortly thereafter had a certain priority, as were people about to embark on a long and dangerous journey or had just returned from one.
I don't want to bore you, because that is not the point of this note. The subject is of interest though and the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards addressed the issue at least 10 times in the decade 1990 to 2000.
The point of this note is this. When I was a boy almost all who were called to the torah pledged a donation to the synagogue for receiving that honor and the misheberach [blessing] that went with it. IT WAS NO ROUTINE MATTER TO BE CALLED TO THE TORAH AND TO BE BLESSED THERE. Today, it appears to be.
Last Saturday was a special Saturday, there was a large crowd in synagogue to honor the memory of Carol Bernstein obm, and to accept the generous gift her family made in her memory and we had a visiting Rabbi.
So, when the Gabbi offered me the seventh Aliyah, I decided to ask for a blessing for my daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter and I remembered the custom of our elders and decided to pledge a donation to the Education fund. Being called to the torah is a special honor and I wanted to mark it by making a charitable gift.
I commend this practice to you all.
I am pleased to continue to send you these commentaries on the week's Haftorah portion.
Parshat Ki Tissa
(1 Kings 18:1-39)
17 Adar I 5768
February 23, 2008
James Kugel, in his latest book, "How to Read the Bible", notes that some scholars hold that in the northern kingdom, Israel, Baal and the God of Israel were worshipped in tandem and that the average person saw nothing wrong with this syncretism. The stern prophet Elijah, however, was a zealot and would have nothing of this sort of religious chicanery. (p. 526) The confrontation between Elijah and the citizenry over this offense was inevitable: "Elijah approached all of the people and said: 'How long will you keep hopping between two opinions (poshim bein shnei seipim)? If the Lord is God, follow Him; and if Baal, follow him?'" (verse 21)
The metaphor used by Elijah literally means to "hop between two branches". When Targum Yonatan, the Aramaic translation of the prophets, translated this phrase, it ignored this image entirely and translated the word "seipim" as "groups": "And Elijah approached all of the people and he said: 'How long will you be split into two groups. If the Lord is God, worship before Him alone; and why do you plead after Baal for whom there is no need and who does not answer the people's prayers.'" Similarly, Rashi translated "seipim" as "two thoughts": "for you are not able to discern in order to decide who is God."
Other interpreters sought particular meaning in Elijah's metaphor. Rabbi David Kimche (12th century Provence) adopted Rashi's explanation but elaborated, paying closer attention to the metaphor: "[It is like person who] hops on both feet. For one who hops on one foot, inclines toward one foot, but one who hops on both feet, has no idea on which foot he will stand – for you are unable to discern who is God. And if you should say that they seem to lean toward the Baal, it says that after they saw that the rain ceased at Elijah's behest, they inclined toward God. At that point, the prophets of Baal claimed that this happened only because they were prevented from worshipping Baal who would otherwise do well for the people. This is why the people were unable to decide. This was the reason for Elijah's test..."
While Kimche left Israel hopping on both feet unable to decide, Rabbi Levi ben Gershon (14th century France) has them wavering between each of their feet. In the process, he describes his analysis of the religious psychology of the idolater: "Someone who hops sometimes leans on one foot and sometimes on the other foot, so too, Israel equivocated between the two positions. Sometimes they believed in God alone and sometimes they thought that Baal was god. What prompted them to show interest in Baal? I can only speculate. They probably made an image, which they imagined to have the power over the people and the weather. The priests of Baal would do certain acts, and they thought that their magic would have influence over Baal who would carry out their will."
Rabbi Joseph Kaspi (14th century France) relies most on the metaphor to describe the nation's religious equivocation: "This is how one climbs a tree: Since the branches of the tree are not strong enough to lean one's feet upon them, because the branches bend under their weight, a person puts a foot on one branch and his other foot on another branch, shifting his weight from one branch to the other, until he looks like he is hopping on both feet, one moment on the right and one moment on the left. So it appeared with their beliefs. Their foolishness and naïveté overcame them. There is adequate evidence of this in our day that it was foolishness and not wickedness that overcame them.
The common element in all of these explanations of Elijah's metaphor is the attempt to describe someone who cannot find firm footing for their feet: one cannot find ground for his feet at all, the others hip hop from foot to foot. Somehow these descriptions tragically capture the existential situation of many Jews today. Despite being a part of a tradition with significant answers to life's important questions, they suffer from not knowing how to put their feet on terra firma – firm ground, always wondering whether others have better answers. Perhaps this is the tragic dilemma of being a minority people. Perhaps this is a uniquely Jewish phenomenon. One thing is certain. We know how Eliahu HaNavi – Elijah the prophet would answer this question!
This study piece is offered as a service of the United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva. It is prepared by Rabbi Mordechai (Mitchell) Silverstein, senior lecturer in Talmud and Midrash at the Conservative Yeshiva. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.
With the permission of The United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem, Rabbi Edward S. Romm - Director of Education
© 2007
Shabbat Shalom,
Henry Ray Wengrow
For the Ritual Committee
Beth Shalom
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When I was a boy growing up in Beth Shalom being given an Aliyah was a special event and I was even taught special rules for the distribution of Aliyot. The first Aliyah of any day's reading is reserved for a Kohan, the second for a Levite, and priority for the rest of the Aliyot were specified according to specific events in the person's life. For example someone with a new baby was called up or the groom was called the Saturday before the wedding. A person having a yartzeit either on that day or shortly thereafter had a certain priority, as were people about to embark on a long and dangerous journey or had just returned from one.
I don't want to bore you, because that is not the point of this note. The subject is of interest though and the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards addressed the issue at least 10 times in the decade 1990 to 2000.
The point of this note is this. When I was a boy almost all who were called to the torah pledged a donation to the synagogue for receiving that honor and the misheberach [blessing] that went with it. IT WAS NO ROUTINE MATTER TO BE CALLED TO THE TORAH AND TO BE BLESSED THERE. Today, it appears to be.
Last Saturday was a special Saturday, there was a large crowd in synagogue to honor the memory of Carol Bernstein obm, and to accept the generous gift her family made in her memory and we had a visiting Rabbi.
So, when the Gabbi offered me the seventh Aliyah, I decided to ask for a blessing for my daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter and I remembered the custom of our elders and decided to pledge a donation to the Education fund. Being called to the torah is a special honor and I wanted to mark it by making a charitable gift.
I commend this practice to you all.
I am pleased to continue to send you these commentaries on the week's Haftorah portion.
Parshat Ki Tissa
(1 Kings 18:1-39)
17 Adar I 5768
February 23, 2008
James Kugel, in his latest book, "How to Read the Bible", notes that some scholars hold that in the northern kingdom, Israel, Baal and the God of Israel were worshipped in tandem and that the average person saw nothing wrong with this syncretism. The stern prophet Elijah, however, was a zealot and would have nothing of this sort of religious chicanery. (p. 526) The confrontation between Elijah and the citizenry over this offense was inevitable: "Elijah approached all of the people and said: 'How long will you keep hopping between two opinions (poshim bein shnei seipim)? If the Lord is God, follow Him; and if Baal, follow him?'" (verse 21)
The metaphor used by Elijah literally means to "hop between two branches". When Targum Yonatan, the Aramaic translation of the prophets, translated this phrase, it ignored this image entirely and translated the word "seipim" as "groups": "And Elijah approached all of the people and he said: 'How long will you be split into two groups. If the Lord is God, worship before Him alone; and why do you plead after Baal for whom there is no need and who does not answer the people's prayers.'" Similarly, Rashi translated "seipim" as "two thoughts": "for you are not able to discern in order to decide who is God."
Other interpreters sought particular meaning in Elijah's metaphor. Rabbi David Kimche (12th century Provence) adopted Rashi's explanation but elaborated, paying closer attention to the metaphor: "[It is like person who] hops on both feet. For one who hops on one foot, inclines toward one foot, but one who hops on both feet, has no idea on which foot he will stand – for you are unable to discern who is God. And if you should say that they seem to lean toward the Baal, it says that after they saw that the rain ceased at Elijah's behest, they inclined toward God. At that point, the prophets of Baal claimed that this happened only because they were prevented from worshipping Baal who would otherwise do well for the people. This is why the people were unable to decide. This was the reason for Elijah's test..."
While Kimche left Israel hopping on both feet unable to decide, Rabbi Levi ben Gershon (14th century France) has them wavering between each of their feet. In the process, he describes his analysis of the religious psychology of the idolater: "Someone who hops sometimes leans on one foot and sometimes on the other foot, so too, Israel equivocated between the two positions. Sometimes they believed in God alone and sometimes they thought that Baal was god. What prompted them to show interest in Baal? I can only speculate. They probably made an image, which they imagined to have the power over the people and the weather. The priests of Baal would do certain acts, and they thought that their magic would have influence over Baal who would carry out their will."
Rabbi Joseph Kaspi (14th century France) relies most on the metaphor to describe the nation's religious equivocation: "This is how one climbs a tree: Since the branches of the tree are not strong enough to lean one's feet upon them, because the branches bend under their weight, a person puts a foot on one branch and his other foot on another branch, shifting his weight from one branch to the other, until he looks like he is hopping on both feet, one moment on the right and one moment on the left. So it appeared with their beliefs. Their foolishness and naïveté overcame them. There is adequate evidence of this in our day that it was foolishness and not wickedness that overcame them.
The common element in all of these explanations of Elijah's metaphor is the attempt to describe someone who cannot find firm footing for their feet: one cannot find ground for his feet at all, the others hip hop from foot to foot. Somehow these descriptions tragically capture the existential situation of many Jews today. Despite being a part of a tradition with significant answers to life's important questions, they suffer from not knowing how to put their feet on terra firma – firm ground, always wondering whether others have better answers. Perhaps this is the tragic dilemma of being a minority people. Perhaps this is a uniquely Jewish phenomenon. One thing is certain. We know how Eliahu HaNavi – Elijah the prophet would answer this question!
This study piece is offered as a service of the United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva. It is prepared by Rabbi Mordechai (Mitchell) Silverstein, senior lecturer in Talmud and Midrash at the Conservative Yeshiva. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.
With the permission of The United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem, Rabbi Edward S. Romm - Director of Education
© 2007
Shabbat Shalom,
Henry Ray Wengrow
For the Ritual Committee
Beth Shalom
No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.20.4/1277 - Release Date: 2/13/2008 8:00 PM
Learner's Service, Feb. 16
Do you have a hard time following services? Do you wonder what all these words are for? Rabbi David Siff is conducting his monthly Learner's Service this Saturday, February 16th, which will be held at 10:00-11:15 a.m., in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
Each session, Rabbi Siff will take a section of the morning prayers, teach their meaning and significance, and also lead us in it together at a slower pace. This service is good for anybody not yet fully comfortable in a traditional service, whether Jewish or not, whether you went to Hebrew School or not, and for those who simply would like to find more personal meaning. We will do some chanting in Hebrew, but we will mainly be studying and discussing the content of the prayers.
Each session, Rabbi Siff will take a section of the morning prayers, teach their meaning and significance, and also lead us in it together at a slower pace. This service is good for anybody not yet fully comfortable in a traditional service, whether Jewish or not, whether you went to Hebrew School or not, and for those who simply would like to find more personal meaning. We will do some chanting in Hebrew, but we will mainly be studying and discussing the content of the prayers.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Weekly Announcements, 2/8
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, February 9–9:30 a.m. Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead Shabbat services.
Social Hall Rededication In memory of Carol O. Bernstein. Special Shabbat services
and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to The
Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation Help support the Religious School. Don't miss out on our Passover Candy Sale. You can pick up an order form in the foyer and return it with payment, to the office. Thank you for your support!
Tuesday, February 12–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting.
Wednesday, February 13–7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting.
Saturday, February 1610 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. 'Seeds of the Sun' concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC.
Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at
787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17:10 a.m. No Hebrew School
10:30 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving "Jeff" Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes
Cemetery.
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Paid-Up Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom
invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members. Call Ruth Rast at 462-0008 to
RSVP, no later than February 11th.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join
us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Thursday, February 21:6:30 p.m. Midrasha and ALL Teens in the Community. Yitzhak and Carole will share the topic: "Stories are the Light of the World." From Genesis to Adam Sandler we tell stories about who we are; discover how to discern your story and your unique
light in our world!
8:00 p.m. Adult Education Academy. Yitzhak and Carole join the Adult Academy to
share the tales of "Hasidic Tales from The Baal Shem Tov and other Masters." All
are welcome!
Friday, February 22–6:00 p.m. 5th & 6th Grade ServiceSCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Brief family services followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner with a focus on stories for families. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum and Carole Forman will tell stories for adults and children, "Tales from the Heaven in the Heart." Maggid Buxbaum says that all the tales are really about us. How can we attain the happiness we dream about?
6:45 p.m. Family Shabbat dinner. Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5, Maximum
cost per family: $25. Your mailed-in check will be your reservation. Checks need to
be received by Wednesday, February 20th. You can drop off your check and RSVP form
with the office or mail it to: Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 N. Trenholm Road
Columbia, SC 29206. Thank you to Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders for chairing this
Shabbat dinner!
Saturday, February 23:9:45 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Shabbat morning services, during which Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will speak on the topic: "Entering the Garden of Eden While Alive with Your Boots On." How can we make our Judaism come alive? How can we come alive and live most fully as Jews?
11:15 a.m. Carole Forman will join the Shabbat Sheli-Tot Shabbat! Ages 2 yrs–5 yrs
are welcome with your parents.
Sunday, February 24:10 a.m. 6th Grade Family Education Program - "Putting G-d on the Guest List"
10 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Adult Education Seminar. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will
offer a program on "The Mystic Teaching Legacy of the Baal Shem Tov." Bagel & lox
brunch $4 per person.
1:30 p.m. Community Wide Teacher in-service "The Art of Storytelling."
Thursday, February 28:5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry from 5-8 pm.6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
Nadia Vardi is doing a special project for her Bat Mitzvah, collecting items for
Pets Incorporated, a non-kill animal shelter in West Columbia. There is a collection
box at the Religious School entrance to the synagogue. Please take a moment and drop
something in for the animals. The products that they are in need of are: Wet pet
food, tennis balls and toys, collars and leashes, cat trees, pens, markers, staples,
opened paper: white, yellow, or blue, liquid dish detergent, bleach and laundry
detergent, pine cleansers, paper towels, rubber gloves, peanut butter, cotton swabs,
baby oil or mineral oil, pill bottles, blankets, towels, wash cloths & children’s
coats.
Well Wisher Support for Eugene Frost Gene, our faithful custodian⁄maintenance worker⁄shamash for over 17 years, was diagnosed with kidney cancer and has no medical insurance. Gene has always been there for us, and we would like to be there for him during this difficult time. We
are accepting gifts to help him pay for his every day needs, such as, prescriptions,
medical bills, rent, etc. Please make your check out to Beth Shalom and we will make
sure Gene receives the contributions made for him. Todah Rabah!
Saturday, February 9–9:30 a.m. Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead Shabbat services.
Social Hall Rededication In memory of Carol O. Bernstein. Special Shabbat services
and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to The
Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation Help support the Religious School. Don't miss out on our Passover Candy Sale. You can pick up an order form in the foyer and return it with payment, to the office. Thank you for your support!
Tuesday, February 12–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting.
Wednesday, February 13–7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting.
Saturday, February 1610 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. 'Seeds of the Sun' concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC.
Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at
787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17:10 a.m. No Hebrew School
10:30 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving "Jeff" Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes
Cemetery.
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Paid-Up Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom
invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members. Call Ruth Rast at 462-0008 to
RSVP, no later than February 11th.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join
us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Thursday, February 21:6:30 p.m. Midrasha and ALL Teens in the Community. Yitzhak and Carole will share the topic: "Stories are the Light of the World." From Genesis to Adam Sandler we tell stories about who we are; discover how to discern your story and your unique
light in our world!
8:00 p.m. Adult Education Academy. Yitzhak and Carole join the Adult Academy to
share the tales of "Hasidic Tales from The Baal Shem Tov and other Masters." All
are welcome!
Friday, February 22–6:00 p.m. 5th & 6th Grade ServiceSCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Brief family services followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner with a focus on stories for families. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum and Carole Forman will tell stories for adults and children, "Tales from the Heaven in the Heart." Maggid Buxbaum says that all the tales are really about us. How can we attain the happiness we dream about?
6:45 p.m. Family Shabbat dinner. Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5, Maximum
cost per family: $25. Your mailed-in check will be your reservation. Checks need to
be received by Wednesday, February 20th. You can drop off your check and RSVP form
with the office or mail it to: Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 N. Trenholm Road
Columbia, SC 29206. Thank you to Beth Bernstein & Rip Sanders for chairing this
Shabbat dinner!
Saturday, February 23:9:45 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Shabbat morning services, during which Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will speak on the topic: "Entering the Garden of Eden While Alive with Your Boots On." How can we make our Judaism come alive? How can we come alive and live most fully as Jews?
11:15 a.m. Carole Forman will join the Shabbat Sheli-Tot Shabbat! Ages 2 yrs–5 yrs
are welcome with your parents.
Sunday, February 24:10 a.m. 6th Grade Family Education Program - "Putting G-d on the Guest List"
10 a.m. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE–Adult Education Seminar. Maggid Yitzhak Buxbaum will
offer a program on "The Mystic Teaching Legacy of the Baal Shem Tov." Bagel & lox
brunch $4 per person.
1:30 p.m. Community Wide Teacher in-service "The Art of Storytelling."
Thursday, February 28:5 p.m. Harvest Hope Food Bank project - volunteers will staff the emergency food pantry from 5-8 pm.6:45 p.m. Minyan service at Harvest Hope Food Bank (2220 Shop Rd).
Nadia Vardi is doing a special project for her Bat Mitzvah, collecting items for
Pets Incorporated, a non-kill animal shelter in West Columbia. There is a collection
box at the Religious School entrance to the synagogue. Please take a moment and drop
something in for the animals. The products that they are in need of are: Wet pet
food, tennis balls and toys, collars and leashes, cat trees, pens, markers, staples,
opened paper: white, yellow, or blue, liquid dish detergent, bleach and laundry
detergent, pine cleansers, paper towels, rubber gloves, peanut butter, cotton swabs,
baby oil or mineral oil, pill bottles, blankets, towels, wash cloths & children’s
coats.
Well Wisher Support for Eugene Frost Gene, our faithful custodian⁄maintenance worker⁄shamash for over 17 years, was diagnosed with kidney cancer and has no medical insurance. Gene has always been there for us, and we would like to be there for him during this difficult time. We
are accepting gifts to help him pay for his every day needs, such as, prescriptions,
medical bills, rent, etc. Please make your check out to Beth Shalom and we will make
sure Gene receives the contributions made for him. Todah Rabah!
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Parshat Terumah
(1 Kings 5:26 – 6:13)
3 Adar I 5768
February 9, 2008
Solomon was renowned for his God-endowed wisdom: "The Lord had given Solomon wisdom, as He had promised." (Verse 26) His incredible building projects, which required great logistical mastery, were the most tangible evidence of the breadth of this wisdom, marking him as a celebrated world figure. His wisdom was virtually without bounds: "And God endowed Solomon with wisdom and discernment in great measure, with understanding as vast as the sands of the seashore...He was the wisest of all men." (5:9-10)
For this reason, the sages were confounded by Solomon's insecurity over his ability to judge his people. In the following dialogue, the sages examine what they thought were the roots of Solomon's anxiety: Solomon said: 'Grant your servant [Solomon], an understanding mind to judge Your people, to distinguish between good and bad.' (1 Kings 3:9)
Is it possible that Solomon was not capable of judging Israel – a man of whom it is written: 'The Lord had given wisdom to Solomon' (5:26) – [is it possible that] such a man was incapable of judging them? Rather, it must mean that he said to them: 'I am different from the judges found in other societies. Those judges sit in the docket and sentence people to death or pervert their sentences or judge corruptly without any sense of personal responsibility. Their sentences have no bearing upon them nor do they suffer any consequences. I, on the other hand, if my judgments are incorrect, I bear the consequences, as it is written: 'Do not rob the poor because he is poor, nor oppress the poor in your gate, for the Lord will take up their cause.' (Proverbs 22:22-3)" (based on Sifre Deut. 9; Finkelstein ed. pp. 16-17 as interpreted by Rashi on Deut. 1:9)
Solomon's wisdom, then, entailed much more than just technical mastery and intelligence. It involved moral, God-given insight and a sense of responsibility for his actions. The sages thought that anyone who wields power must have great depth of conscience that must weigh upon them constantly They could not imagine a Solomon or a Moses who did not feel an enormous burden on their shoulders, not because they were incapable but because the true mantle of leadership required it. That, for the sages, was the true indicator that God has placed the responsibility on them.
This study piece is offered as a service of the United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva. It is prepared by Rabbi Mordechai (Mitchell) Silverstein, senior lecturer in Talmud and Midrash at the Conservative Yeshiva. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. With the permission of The United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem, Rabbi Edward S. Romm - Director of Education© 2007
Shabbat Shalom,
Henry Ray Wengrow
For the Ritual Committee
Beth Shalom
3 Adar I 5768
February 9, 2008
Solomon was renowned for his God-endowed wisdom: "The Lord had given Solomon wisdom, as He had promised." (Verse 26) His incredible building projects, which required great logistical mastery, were the most tangible evidence of the breadth of this wisdom, marking him as a celebrated world figure. His wisdom was virtually without bounds: "And God endowed Solomon with wisdom and discernment in great measure, with understanding as vast as the sands of the seashore...He was the wisest of all men." (5:9-10)
For this reason, the sages were confounded by Solomon's insecurity over his ability to judge his people. In the following dialogue, the sages examine what they thought were the roots of Solomon's anxiety: Solomon said: 'Grant your servant [Solomon], an understanding mind to judge Your people, to distinguish between good and bad.' (1 Kings 3:9)
Is it possible that Solomon was not capable of judging Israel – a man of whom it is written: 'The Lord had given wisdom to Solomon' (5:26) – [is it possible that] such a man was incapable of judging them? Rather, it must mean that he said to them: 'I am different from the judges found in other societies. Those judges sit in the docket and sentence people to death or pervert their sentences or judge corruptly without any sense of personal responsibility. Their sentences have no bearing upon them nor do they suffer any consequences. I, on the other hand, if my judgments are incorrect, I bear the consequences, as it is written: 'Do not rob the poor because he is poor, nor oppress the poor in your gate, for the Lord will take up their cause.' (Proverbs 22:22-3)" (based on Sifre Deut. 9; Finkelstein ed. pp. 16-17 as interpreted by Rashi on Deut. 1:9)
Solomon's wisdom, then, entailed much more than just technical mastery and intelligence. It involved moral, God-given insight and a sense of responsibility for his actions. The sages thought that anyone who wields power must have great depth of conscience that must weigh upon them constantly They could not imagine a Solomon or a Moses who did not feel an enormous burden on their shoulders, not because they were incapable but because the true mantle of leadership required it. That, for the sages, was the true indicator that God has placed the responsibility on them.
This study piece is offered as a service of the United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva. It is prepared by Rabbi Mordechai (Mitchell) Silverstein, senior lecturer in Talmud and Midrash at the Conservative Yeshiva. He is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. With the permission of The United Synagogue Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem, Rabbi Edward S. Romm - Director of Education© 2007
Shabbat Shalom,
Henry Ray Wengrow
For the Ritual Committee
Beth Shalom
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Candidate for Rabbi to Lead Services 2/8-9
Please join us in welcoming
Rabbi Jonathan Case
February 8 - 9, 2008
Friday, February 8th
*6:30 PM - Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead Shabbat evening services
(Kabbalat Shabbat & sermon).
Services followed by a Shabbat dinner (dairy meal) at
Beth Shalom (see RSVP form below).
Rabbi Case will be available to meet and greet at the dinner Friday evening.
The previously scheduled "Sharing Shabbat at Home" community Shabbat dinner is now going to be held at Beth Shalom, following early services. Dinner will be baked salmon with honey citrus sesame glaze, seasoned wild rice & orzo, sautéed green beans with minced red peppers & almonds, and mixed green salad, challah. Dessert choice of apple or berry cobbler ala mode. For the kids we will have fish sticks, pasta with tomato sauce and applesauce.
Saturday, February 9th
*9:30 AM - Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead the Shabbat morning services
(Shaharit, Torah & Haftarah & sermon).
Special Shabbat services and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to The Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
Rabbi Case will be available to meet and greet at the kiddush luncheon following services.
Rabbi Jonathan Case has been a pulpit rabbi for almost 24 years. He has a BA in Jewish History from the Jewish Theological Seminary and a BA in Political Science from Columbia University. He received his rabbinical training and ordination from Leo Baeck College in London. He also has completed specialized training from JTS on kashrut and in ministering to the chemically dependent. Much of his career was spent in New York State in only three shuls and is currently the interim rabbi in Richmond, VA. He has a passion for educating and enriching individual and congregational faith embedded in the pleasure of Jewish Life, tradition and practice. He brings much experience working with teaching, youth, serving older adults, counseling, as well as ecumenical activities.
Please make every attempt to come and meet Rabbi Jonathan Case.
Rabbi Search Committee
Family Shabbat Dinner
Friday, February 8th
after family services
(services begin at 6:00 p.m.)
Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5
Maximum cost per family: $25
Please RSVP by email or send in your
check to Beth Shalom ASAP.
Make your checks payable to Beth Shalom Synagogue and
mail your check and reservation form (below) to:
Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 North Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206
*************************************************************
Family Shabbat Dinner - Friday, February 8, 2008
Name______________________________ Phone___________________________
Number Attending: Adults_____________ Children___________
Amount Enclosed $________________
Rabbi Jonathan Case
February 8 - 9, 2008
Friday, February 8th
*6:30 PM - Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead Shabbat evening services
(Kabbalat Shabbat & sermon).
Services followed by a Shabbat dinner (dairy meal) at
Beth Shalom (see RSVP form below).
Rabbi Case will be available to meet and greet at the dinner Friday evening.
The previously scheduled "Sharing Shabbat at Home" community Shabbat dinner is now going to be held at Beth Shalom, following early services. Dinner will be baked salmon with honey citrus sesame glaze, seasoned wild rice & orzo, sautéed green beans with minced red peppers & almonds, and mixed green salad, challah. Dessert choice of apple or berry cobbler ala mode. For the kids we will have fish sticks, pasta with tomato sauce and applesauce.
Saturday, February 9th
*9:30 AM - Rabbi Jonathan Case will lead the Shabbat morning services
(Shaharit, Torah & Haftarah & sermon).
Special Shabbat services and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to The Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
Rabbi Case will be available to meet and greet at the kiddush luncheon following services.
Rabbi Jonathan Case has been a pulpit rabbi for almost 24 years. He has a BA in Jewish History from the Jewish Theological Seminary and a BA in Political Science from Columbia University. He received his rabbinical training and ordination from Leo Baeck College in London. He also has completed specialized training from JTS on kashrut and in ministering to the chemically dependent. Much of his career was spent in New York State in only three shuls and is currently the interim rabbi in Richmond, VA. He has a passion for educating and enriching individual and congregational faith embedded in the pleasure of Jewish Life, tradition and practice. He brings much experience working with teaching, youth, serving older adults, counseling, as well as ecumenical activities.
Please make every attempt to come and meet Rabbi Jonathan Case.
Rabbi Search Committee
Family Shabbat Dinner
Friday, February 8th
after family services
(services begin at 6:00 p.m.)
Adults: $10, Children (under 12 yrs.): $5
Maximum cost per family: $25
Please RSVP by email or send in your
check to Beth Shalom ASAP.
Make your checks payable to Beth Shalom Synagogue and
mail your check and reservation form (below) to:
Beth Shalom Synagogue, 5827 North Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29206
*************************************************************
Family Shabbat Dinner - Friday, February 8, 2008
Name______________________________ Phone___________________________
Number Attending: Adults_____________ Children___________
Amount Enclosed $________________
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Torah School Passover Candy Sale
We are pleased to announce our first annual BARTONS PASSOVER CANDY SALE! Proceeds of the sale are used to support projects for the Religious School and without your help, many projects would not be possible.
This year there are 2 options: You can order locally through any student or pick up an order form at the School or Shul office. Your order will be delivered to Beth Shalom. You can go online to http://www.misschocolate.com/ and order direct, by clicking on online store and setting up an account. Follow the directions given and when prompted enter the student ID (if you know it) or enter our school code, “703098.” We will receive credit for your order! Your order will be delivered directly to you (for a small delivery fee).
This year there are 2 options: You can order locally through any student or pick up an order form at the School or Shul office. Your order will be delivered to Beth Shalom. You can go online to http://www.misschocolate.com/ and order direct, by clicking on online store and setting up an account. Follow the directions given and when prompted enter the student ID (if you know it) or enter our school code, “703098.” We will receive credit for your order! Your order will be delivered directly to you (for a small delivery fee).
Friday, February 01, 2008
Weekly Announcements, 2/1
Saturday, February 2:
9:45 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Sydney Bland.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Sunday, February 3:
10 a.m. 3rd & 4th Grade Family Education-Mezuzzah Making⁄Blessing Books.
3 p.m. Meira Warshauer will present excerpts from her new CD,Streams in the Desert: Music for Orchestra and Chorus Inspired by the Torah, recently released on Albany Records.Benson, mezzo-soprano, and Laury Christie, soprano, will perform, with Meira at the piano. moderated by Larry Hembree. Admission is free and open to the public.Hall,Spears Music⁄Art Center, Columbia College.signing and reception to follow. more information call 786-3810.
Thursday, February 7:
7 p.m. Adult Education Academy Classes
8:10 p.m. Adult Education Academy Classes
Friday, February 8:
6 p.m. Early Shabbat services
7 p.m. “Sharing Shabbat at Home” Shabbat dinners held at hosts homes. See insert flyer for more details and to RSVP.
Saturday, February 9:
9:45 a.m. Join us for special Shabbat services and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to the Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Tuesday, February 12–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting.
Wednesday, February 13–7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting.
Saturday, February 16:
10 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. “Seeds of the Sun” concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC. Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at 787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17:
10 a.m. No Hebrew School
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members. Call Ruth Rast at 462-0008 to RSVP, no later than February 11th.
11 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving “Jeff” Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes Cemetery.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Well Wisher Support for Eugene Frost
Gene, our faithful custodian⁄maintenance worker⁄shamash for over 17 years, was diagnosed with kidney cancer and has no medical insurance. Gene has always been there for us, and we would like to be there for him during this difficult time. We are accepting gifts to help him pay for his every day needs, such as, prescriptions, medical bills, rent, etc. Please make your check out to Beth Shalom and we will make sure Gene receives the contributions made for him. Todah Rabah!
9:45 a.m. Bat Mitzvah of Sydney Bland.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Sunday, February 3:
10 a.m. 3rd & 4th Grade Family Education-Mezuzzah Making⁄Blessing Books.
3 p.m. Meira Warshauer will present excerpts from her new CD,Streams in the Desert: Music for Orchestra and Chorus Inspired by the Torah, recently released on Albany Records.Benson, mezzo-soprano, and Laury Christie, soprano, will perform, with Meira at the piano. moderated by Larry Hembree. Admission is free and open to the public.Hall,Spears Music⁄Art Center, Columbia College.signing and reception to follow. more information call 786-3810.
Thursday, February 7:
7 p.m. Adult Education Academy Classes
8:10 p.m. Adult Education Academy Classes
Friday, February 8:
6 p.m. Early Shabbat services
7 p.m. “Sharing Shabbat at Home” Shabbat dinners held at hosts homes. See insert flyer for more details and to RSVP.
Saturday, February 9:
9:45 a.m. Join us for special Shabbat services and kiddush will be held in honor of the rededication of the social hall to the Carol O. Bernstein Social Hall.
10:30 a.m. Junior Congregation
Tuesday, February 12–6:30 p.m. Board of Education meeting.
Wednesday, February 13–7:30 p.m. Board of Directors meeting.
Saturday, February 16:
10 a.m. Learner Service in the Kline auditorium (main service, as usual, will be in the sanctuary).
7:30 p.m. “Seeds of the Sun” concert, a leading Israeli Jazz ensemble, at the JCC. Space is limited. Tickets are $10 for adult, $5 for seniors. Contact Mandy Fannin at 787-2023 ext. 206 to reserve your spot today.
Sunday, February 17:
10 a.m. No Hebrew School
11 a.m. Beth Shalom Sisterhood Membership Brunch. All Women of Beth Shalom invited to attend. No Charge for Paid-Up Members. Call Ruth Rast at 462-0008 to RSVP, no later than February 11th.
11 a.m. Unveiling of the stone for Irving “Jeff” Sunshine at Arcadia Lakes Cemetery.
Tuesday, February 19–7 p.m. Jewish Women's Book Club Meeting in the library. Join us for: "A Day of Small Beginnings" by Lisa Pearl Rosenbaum.
Well Wisher Support for Eugene Frost
Gene, our faithful custodian⁄maintenance worker⁄shamash for over 17 years, was diagnosed with kidney cancer and has no medical insurance. Gene has always been there for us, and we would like to be there for him during this difficult time. We are accepting gifts to help him pay for his every day needs, such as, prescriptions, medical bills, rent, etc. Please make your check out to Beth Shalom and we will make sure Gene receives the contributions made for him. Todah Rabah!
Rosh Chodesh: It's a Girl Thing!
Come find out how celebrating Rosh Chodesh can become a very special experience of community that we don't find in other parts of our Jewish lives–a unique opportunity to lead and be led, to grow and to experiment, to learn and to teach,and to celebrate with our sisters.
We gather monthly to explore and create new rituals based on the new moon, Rosh Chodesh, which has traditionally been observed as a minor festival, particularly by women.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Where: 5223 Circle Dr. Columbia, SC 29206
Time: 7:15 p.m.
RSVP: Irene Milliman 782-2500
Leader: Rebecca Pinsker
We gather monthly to explore and create new rituals based on the new moon, Rosh Chodesh, which has traditionally been observed as a minor festival, particularly by women.
When: Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Where: 5223 Circle Dr. Columbia, SC 29206
Time: 7:15 p.m.
RSVP: Irene Milliman 782-2500
Leader: Rebecca Pinsker
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