The Israelites left Mitzrayim – the narrow place – and found themselves in the wilderness. And while the Torah reading cycle does not bring us to the book of Bamidbar (in the wilderness) for another five weeks, this season of counting the omer, with Passover behind us and Shavuot somewhere on the horizon, the calendar invites us to see ourselves in the wilderness now.
The Wilderness is a place of deep uncertainty. Our basic needs are in question. It is hard to place ourselves in a larger context, and we can easily feel, if not actually be, lost.
But the Hebrew word for in the wilderness – bamidbar – can provide another take. The word could also mean “in the speaking.” This “speaking” can refer to the revelation that culminates at Sinai as Torah, and it can also inspire us to, in the midst of the uncertainty, listen to the “still, small voice.” That the midst of uncertainty can also be a place of wisdom and comfort and great teachings.
And we read Leviticus during this time – the book ascribing us with commandments for how to keep our sanctuaries attuned to G-d’s presence’s ability to dwell among us.
As we roam, as we seek, as we shed the physical, emotional, and spiritual burdens of enslavement, may we find discipline and boundaries that allow our midst to be worthy of the divine presence. May we acknowledge the uncertainty and the risk of the wilderness, but also seek out the wisdom and potential for divine connection.
As we journey, shabbat shalom,
R’ David
The Wilderness is a place of deep uncertainty. Our basic needs are in question. It is hard to place ourselves in a larger context, and we can easily feel, if not actually be, lost.
But the Hebrew word for in the wilderness – bamidbar – can provide another take. The word could also mean “in the speaking.” This “speaking” can refer to the revelation that culminates at Sinai as Torah, and it can also inspire us to, in the midst of the uncertainty, listen to the “still, small voice.” That the midst of uncertainty can also be a place of wisdom and comfort and great teachings.
And we read Leviticus during this time – the book ascribing us with commandments for how to keep our sanctuaries attuned to G-d’s presence’s ability to dwell among us.
As we roam, as we seek, as we shed the physical, emotional, and spiritual burdens of enslavement, may we find discipline and boundaries that allow our midst to be worthy of the divine presence. May we acknowledge the uncertainty and the risk of the wilderness, but also seek out the wisdom and potential for divine connection.
As we journey, shabbat shalom,
R’ David
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