March 15, 2012
This week’s Torah portion is Ki Tissa Hebrew for “when you take.” The Parashat involves instructions by God to the Israelites on tithings and offerings for the Worship Service with other strong themes. Cantor Sussman chose to sermonize the portion describing B’stalel, the expert chosen to build the Mishkan or Tabernacle (dwelling place). Cantor states, “God explains the importance of fulfilling the mitzvoth in the most beautiful way. To enhance worship with what we wear or how we adorn it, is a very Jewish concept.”
It is telling that God places importance on the ritual garments and adornments to the Tabernacle. Perhaps God wishes us to place a greater emphasis on Shabbat Services. With our seemingly chaotic lifestyles, Shabbat helps us to refocus by giving us a greater perspective to who we are through the legacy of our ancestors.
When we bring mindfulness to our place of worship, preparing the Bema, wearing a kippah or a tallit, or simply by sitting quietly and waiting for Services to start, a soothing calm comes to us. This state of mindfulness helps us clear away the stress of the outside world and makes us ready to receive the message of Shabbat. Whether it be a beautiful melody, an inspiring sermon or a meditative prayer, we receive a spiritual gift that we can take with us as we, once more, face the world outside.
In preparing for our Service, we are truly preparing our minds. In adorning ourselves with the garments of our faith, we become that much more aware of the important spiritual message we are about to receive, however subtle it may be. And through all of the activities surrounding the special preparations made for our Shabbat Service, we enhance our experience and the blessings of Shabbat.
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