Rabbi Linda's blog

On the Jewish calendar the Hebrew month of Adar is an invitation to cultivate joy. In the book of Esther, read on Purim, the text states: “That month was reversed for them from grief to joy” (Esther 9:22). In other words, the month of Adar was declared a month of happiness, not because the people were already joyful but because they were full of grief that shifted to joy.

In the cold, dark winter, with the news of the world bringing pain and worry, we are in a Jewish season that invites us to locate joy within ourselves, if even for a moment. The Baal Shem Tov teaches that when we create joy in our lives, we arouse the Divine joy which leads to the opening of the channels of even more blessing, bringing more joy. In short, there is momentum to this, if we can cultivate gladness, it will lead to more joy.

So how might we do that? We might notice that the days are getting longer and savor the added daylight. We might develop a daily practice of cultivating gratitude. We might spend time with that which nourishes the spirit ‐ community time, nature time, spiritual practices, kind deeds, connecting to our inner mission, whatever it is that truly sustains you.

Life is difficult and the world is wildly imperfect. But even as we struggle for healing, for tikkun olam, we are encouraged to let in joy and goodness, wherever we are able. As you read this newsletter you'll see many opportunities to cultivate comfort and joy here at Beth Israel. May you find your way to moments of joy and healing and may you have a Happy Adar!