February 11-12, 2022 Shabbat Tetzaveh
11 Adar I 5782
Rabbis have long debated the reasons why the Torah spends so much time and text describing the outward dress of the High Priests. This week’s parsha details the instruction and intention for priestly clothing: “Make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for dignity and splendor” (Exodus 28:2). The Torah makes clear that priestly clothing serves a holy purpose; why does it not focus on the inner qualities required for those same priests to lead and serve the Children of Israel?
Rabbi Joseph H. Hertz comments: “These garments reminded the High Priest that… he must make the ideal of holiness the constant guide of his life.” Pinchas HaCohen Peli teaches: “Aaron should carry the names of the sons of Israel over his heart… for remembrance before the Eternal at all times.” Peli points out that Aaron’s dress was more than just beautiful; it served a deeper function. Carrying the names of the tribes on his shoulders reminded Aaron of his responsibility to carry the burdens of his people on his shoulders. Rabbi Joe Eiduson adds that keeping the ancestral names close to the heart would remind Aaron that leadership demands kindness, humility, and care for the dignity of each Child of Israel.
“Mi she-nichnas Adar marbim b’simcha—when Adar arrives, joy increases.”
This is the month of Adar, and the rabbis said that this month we have to find joy 😊
Are you celebrating a simcha (joyous occasion)? Do you have a new grandchild, a new great-grandchild, or some other good news to share? Tell me all about it! I will announce your simcha at services, and we’ll broadcast it on the big screens throughout the building. Mazel tov!
Please join in this week’s Shabbat celebrations on Channel 1960 or in the Synagogue
(limited seating; masks required) –
Friday at 4:15 PM: Shabbat Evening Service followed by Blessings in the Dining Room
Saturday at 10:00 AM: Shabbat Morning Service followed by Blessings in the Dining Room
Shmoozing with Rabbi Sherman Thursdays at 3:00 PM in the Music Room (limited seating; masks required). Bring your Jewish questions, thoughts, ideas and reflections.
Torah Talk Saturdays at 1:30 PM in the Synagogue (limited seating; masks required).
We are studying Rabbi Joseph Telushkin’s book, A Code of Jewish Ethics, focusing on kindness.
Candle lighting time for the city of Mission Viejo: Friday evening at 5:14 PM
Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 6:10 PM
Shabbat Shalom Rabbi Sherman