The Blessing of Time

By Jacqueline Lehrer
University of Ontario

Our Torah readings this month provide a major focus on physicality. We encounter in depth the route taken by b’nai yisrael, and pay particular attention to certain locations along the way. We also touch on the cities of refuge and their significance in the creation of an ethical system. Most importantly, the boundaries of the state of Israel are given. And even so, certain parts of this month’s parshiyot deal with more lofty, less concrete ideals.

For example, one parashah includes the first two paragraphs of the Shema. It also includes a recap of both the Shalosh Regalim (three pilgrimage festivals) and the Ten Commandments that differ slightly from the descriptions found in Exodus

In Shemot, the rule regarding Shabbat is Zakhor--remember. However, in Va’ethanan, read this month, we have are enjoined instead to Shamor, to observe the Shabbat.

With the story of creation, we see the importance of time. The only things specifically designated as holy are b’nai yisrael and the Shabbat. The day of rest’s exalted state is reinforced by its reference to the Sabbath Queen. We become the bridge between holiness and the mundane world as we both remember and observe Shabbat. We become the agent for holiness, drawing God’s presence into a world which so often seems bereft of sanctity. My hope for all of you, despite being busy this summer, is that you all observe the Shabbat and remember both creation and the Exodus while doing so.

[Posted 8/4/05]