This week's parasha reminds us of the power of memory as an active responsibility. With the inclusion of the 3rd paragraph of the Sh'ma, parashatSh'lach L'cha calls us to pay attention to what grounds and is expected of us. Wondering about the t'chelet/the blue thread woven through the tzitzit on the corners of our garments (which later manifest in the tallit/prayer shawl), Rabbi Meir asks, why t'chelet? Why not another color? T'chelet he says, reminds us of sea, and sea reminds us of sky and sky reminds us of the Thrones of Glory (Talmud Bavli, Menachot 43b). Meaning, it is not
enough to connect with the divine (as if that were so easy). We must remember and maintain our relationship with the world in which we live, the one that surrounds us, the one we are bound to nourish, sustain and protect. It is in this way that we expand to connect with what is holy.
Enjoy this commentary on this week's parasha which has found its way into curricula and other educational and liturgical settings. Written 18 years ago, it still ties me to my grandfather and the sacred practices of our people. May it connect you more tightly to what is sacred, fuel your commitment to holy action and bring you life.
Shabbat Shalom rg
Congregation Habonim 103 West End Ave New York, NY 10023
