Rabbi Linda's blog

The answer to my title question is that it is not completely different. On all other Passovers there are trials and tribulations in the world and in our own lives, just as there are now. Some years we feel them more acutely. But when the 15th of Nisan comes along and we sit down to seder, we enter our ancient story seeking inspiration, no matter what narrow places we find ourselves and our world.

How might the rituals of the Pesach seder invigorate you this April?

Pesach is about connecting, both with others around the table and with our redemption narrative. The seder invites us to engage in serious dialogue and to play. Through conversation, song, prayer, food and ritual, we connect with one another. Those of us who have experienced Pesach over many years can connect to our past, to memories of loved ones around the table. We can let those memories nourish us.

After the meal we sing verses from Hallel. The psalms of Hallel include the oft quoted verse "Min HaMetzar karati Yah, Anani vamerchav Yah" which translates, "From the narrow place I called out to God who answered me with the Divine expanse." (Psalm 118:5) This verse is a reminder that life is filled with challenges, countless narrow places, tight spots. One defining narrative of Judaism is about redemption from one of the tightest spots of all, slavery. The Torah (and haggadah) teach that the people needed to cry out from their place of suffering. That was an important step in the liberation. A takeaway: Name your pain. Cry out. Don't be afraid to express it. And, have faith that you can move out of that narrowness, even if the needle shifts just a tad. Everything changes.

The contemporary seder creates an opportunity to think about how and where you wish to put your tikkun olam efforts on behalf of the community, the country, the world. No one can do it all. No one can do it alone. Pesach brings us together to share the responsibility and to discern where our time and resources are best spent. As the Mishnah teaches: "You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it." (Pirkei Avot 2:21). Beth Israel is offering a pre Pesach opportunity to begin those conversations. If you are free on March 31st, zoom into our "Tikkun Olam Town Hall", where we will hold these conversations with one another. We will gather to share questions and to find support and perhaps a few paths forward as the news of the world lands on each of us. No RSVP necessary. No homework in advance. Just show up, bringing your authentic voice, concerns and hopes. It is called: ARCC'S TIKKUN OLAM TOWN HALL ‐ RESPONDING TO THIS MOMENT.

Finally, Pesach is a celebration of the rebirth of Spring. Open to the awesome beauty and creativity of the earth as it dazzles us with colorful blossoms. Let in the miracle and hopefulness of this yearly rebirth. May this season strengthen us and enliven us in unexpected ways.