Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

We need each other.

We need each other now as tumult within Israel continues and as manifestations of antisemitism
persist.

We need each other as hate crimes against fellow Americans – often gun violence – persists.

We need each other as environmental degradation persists.

We need each other as vitriolic political rhetoric persists.

These situations demand a broad solidarity, within and beyond the Jewish community. At the beginning of each new month we chant “Chaverim kol Yisrael” – all of Israel, friends. We would do well to add,
“Chaverim kol yoshvei tevel” – all inhabitants of Earth, friends.

On the High Holidays, we imagine every single individual – not just Jews – passing under the shepherd’s staff, single file, one by one. I guess that means that we all stand in line together, awaiting our turn. As we celebrate a new year, may we pray for of the health and safety of ourselves, of our community, and the entire world. After all, we are in this world, and living upon it, together.

L’Shana Tova!

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill

August 31, 2023