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Dear Friends,
Approaching the final days of Pesach, I wish to remind us of our tradition’s expectation that we truly see ourselves as part of the Exodus story. The Haggadah explicitly tells us: B’chol dor vador, chayav adam lirot et atzmo k’ilu hu yatza mimitzrayim. In every generation every one of us is obligated to regard ourselves as if we had gone through Mitzrayim.
Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, a 19th century German rabbi and a founder of modern Orthodox Judaism, taught that the phrase "as if" serves as both instruction and warning. Our freedom is itself an "as if," reminding us that we're always teetering between freedom and its loss.
This warning hit particularly hard this week when Governor Josh Shapiro's residence was firebombed the night of the Seder. If you look to the image below, you’ll note the charred Haggadah page where "We have not yet lost our hope" remains visible among the ashes.
The timing is jarring. As we conclude our celebration of liberation, we're reminded that there are still those who would target us Jews because of who we are, as the Egyptians did. But Passover isn't just about remembering the experience of oppression– it’s about knowing how to respond.
We have choices. We can react with fear and isolation, abandoning principles for security - essentially becoming Egypt in our attempt to protect ourselves. Or we can respond as Jews who know our security comes from the strength of our values: justice, compassion, and building a society that looks out for all.
Exodus leads to Sinai— from liberation to covenant. Physical freedom was just the beginning; moral purpose was the destination. When facing threats, we need to balance vigilance with living up to our values.
In fighting Egypt, we cannot become Egypt. We fight Egypt by becoming Israel. We stand proud as Jews, watchful against threats, but never giving up the moral compass of Torah that's guided us through centuries of challenge.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameiach,
Dave
A few items of note:
Consider joining us for two Yom HaShoah observances: first, a showing of the film Complicit with an incredible program to follow. The Township of Livingston and Temple Beth Shalom are partnering with us for this event.Youcan find more information here.
Some of you may know that Temple B’nai Abraham also serves as a central hub for Israelis in the area on Sunday afternoons. Sunday, April 27, at 4 PM, the tzofim will be hosting a 30-45 minute ceremony for Yom HaShoah in our sanctuary. Our connection with Israelis, abroad and here, is of paramount importance. We are one family, very much in need of each other. Please come out and show our Israeli friends, who came out for Mitzvah Day, that we consider them part of our extended family.
Earlier that day, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop will be speaking here at Temple B’nai Abraham (at 11 AM). RSVP here. Please note that all NJ gubernatorial candidates from the major parties have been invited to speak, and we are working to set up forums to host those who have responded (or reached out to us first).
Mark your calendars for the Livingston Celebrates Israel observance on Yom Ha’atzmaut, May 1. Details to follow. And, go directly from Livingston Celebrates Israel to the Pulse Gallery Night (beginning at 7 PM) for an unforgettable evening of friends, cocktails, food, and culture, as we celebrate (and bid on) the stunning creations of many Temple B’nai Abraham artists.
Lastly, don’t forget to vote in the World ZIonist Congress Elections!
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