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Rabbi Sherman Weekly Torah Commentary December 9-10, 2022 (16 Kislev 5783)

 December 9-10, 2022                                                                                                   Parashat Vayishlach

16 Kislev 5783

Jacob (Ya’akov) earns a new name and a new identity: “Adonai said to him, ‘You whose name is Jacob, you shall be called Jacob no more, but Israel (Yisrael) shall be your name” (Genesis 35:10). The great medieval French commentator Rashi explains that Jacob who was once a “lurker and a trickster” is now known as a “Prince or Chief.”  Do our names define or change us? In what ways do we make names for ourselves?

 

Hanukkah is coming!! – First candle is Sunday, December 18 at Sundown

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE (Before the Common Era). Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev, which corresponds this year to December 18 at sundown. Join HP Residents for candle lighting and singing at 4:15 PM each evening in the Piano Lounge. Enjoy latkes and delicious fried foods all week long prepared by our Dining Services staff. Check out our Gift Shop for Hanukkah treats. And join in the fun at our Annual HP Hanukkah party on Thursday, December 22 at 3:00 PM in the Pavilion – music, games, treats, and more!

 

“Shmoozing with Rabbi Sherman” – Friday, December 9 at 1:30 PM in the Music Room

As we prepare to greet Shabbat, come shmooze with Rabbi and fellow Residents. Bring your ideas and questions, and join the community in conversation. No Jewish knowledge or background required! Just bring yourself, a listening ear, and an open mind! Masks required.

 

“Torah Talk” — Saturday Afternoons at 1:30 PM

Join us in a study of The Book of Proverbs: A Social Justice Commentary by Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz. In his introduction, Rabbi Yanklowitz writes that the Book of Proverbs is “spiritual but not religious.” Let’s learn how these ancient proverbs can have spiritual meaning in our lives today. Masks required. Previous knowledge of Proverbs or the Hebrew Bible NOT REQUIRED!

 

Please join our Shabbat celebrations in the Synagogue (Masks Required) or on Channel 1960

Friday at 6:30 PM                 Shabbat Evening Service with Rabbi Sherman

Saturday at 10:00 AM        Shabbat Morning Service followed by Blessings from the Bima

Candle lighting time for Shabbat for the city of Mission Viejo: Friday evening at 4:25 PM

Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 5:23 PM

 

Shabbat Shalom!                                                                                                         Rabbi Sherman