From the beginning of our story, the opening of the Book of Genesis, the divinity of each and every human being is central to Judaism; other principles are as well. This week we come to the culmination of the story of the exodus from Egypt and hear the teaching of what has become known as “The Ten Commandments”, part of the system of Torah (teaching) and Mitzvot (obligation).
These Mitzvot are about our obligations to life, to others. While Judaism deeply values the spiritual quest of each and every individual - "If I am not for myself, who will be?" - it also demands that the essence of humanity requires responsibility for the other - "If I am only for myself what am I?" Judaism teaches that one’s very own spiritual essence is degraded when it does not consider the other - our relationships, our community and our society.
As summer holidays come to an end; and in just over a week we return to our full year’s programs (see content of this email below for details), we will continue to require vaccinations for attendance at the synagogue in order to fulfil our obligation to the most vulnerable amongst us; we will insure no one is excluded by providing a live-stream option for those who freely choose for their personal reasons not to be vaccination.
We believe this is the best way forward to support individual spiritual pathways and responsibility for others in our community. We look forward to engaging with each and all in the year ahead.
Please email your photos, memories and family stories of Life Cycles shared with our community at Emanuel Synagogue over the last 80 years withMarina@Emanuel.org.au
Mardi Gras Shabbat Service Check here for more info
2022 UIA Progressive Appeal Check here for more info
Personalised Benching Books Check here for more info
