Limmud was as always wonderful so many people old and new. Great learning and teaching. That first and second day there is always a joy I cannot go more than a few feet without meeting someone I know and greeting an old friend.
This year I was teaching four sessions as part of the new Beit Midrash program (which is a fantastic idea and one with which I am keen to help with, next year). These went well, they were on the topic of Judah and Tamar. (Looking at it four ways). I was also helping out with the Chervarta project, this also went well.
Although I enjoyed limmud tremendously I am very tired. Back home in Stoke getting on with work for the new semester and with my assessments. Busy as always. Happy but Busy.
Sunday, 29 December 2013
Thursday, 19 December 2013
End of semester, manchester, Limmud.
I was thinking about where to post this
entry. Here or in my other blog. However, I think that the other
blog is no more or less defunct so I shall post it to this particular
one. Thinking about it I feel that the semester ended with something
of whimper rather than with a roar. And I still have assessments to
do for it. But my seventh semester at rabbinical school is over.
Currently I am in Stoke although only for a single evening.
This morning I went for an NF check up
in Manchester, good news I am in excellent health. Better in fact
than when I was last seen. Way back when in 2007. But what struck me
was how much the hospital has alter. It is almost unrecognisable from
what it was last time I was. Very bright very modern.
What I found more alarming was how much
the whole area around the university has changed. I wont say that I
hardly recognised it, because it was still very clearly my old
stomping ground. But considering how much time I spent there over
such a long period of time it was really really different and it felt
really disconcerting. To be somewhere which was simaltainously
utterly familiar and yet very changed. And in the end I no longer
felt at home there. Which given how long its been since I went back
is hardly surprising.
After this very short visit home I go
back to KLS tomorrow to lead a Friday night service then I have one
last day to get ready for limmud.
Then on Sunday though Thursday there is
Limmud and then I come home for a bit. Probably about a week. Then
some concentrated work on assessments and my eighth semester starts.
Monday, 16 December 2013
Homiletics Bibliography
Those of you who read my blog will know that I am writing my rabbinic dissertation on the pedagogy of Homiletics in progressive seminaries. What follows is a partial bibliography. Those entries marked with (coll.) are collections of sermons, those with (ReMeth) relate to research methods and theory. Anything else, unless otherwise stated will be a book about preaching. Mostly this will be a straight up Bibliography. However, sometimes I will make a very short comment about a particular entry. I hope this is interest to every one and useful to those looking to learn about preaching either for first time or to improve their skills.
Most of these books, especially ones on 'how to preach et al', are from a Christian context and are really very Christian indeed. They are nevertheless full of good advice and ideas on how to give a sermon. But if like me you are coming at them from a Jewish perspective just be prepared for the fact the sermon works differently in liturgical contexts of Christianity and Judaism. (AF)
Berkowitz, Henry. 'The Rabbi as Preacher' in Intimate Glimpses of the Rabbi's Career. Cincinnati: Hebrew Union College Press, 1921.
Berry, D., H., (ed., trans). Cicero Political Speeches. Oxford World's Classics. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006.
Cohen, Louis et al. Research Methods in Education. 5th edition London: Routledge Falmer, 2003 (1st edition 2000).
Day, David. A Preaching Workbook. London: SPCK, 2004 (1st 1998). This is an interesting book in general just because of what it can tell about the history of American Reform Judaism.
Hamilton, Donald L., Homiletical Handbook. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1992.
Heywood, David. Transforming Preaching: The Sermon as a Channel for God's Word. SPCK Library of Ministry: London, 2013.
Lord, Jennifer L. Finding Language and Imagery: Words for Holy Speech. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2010.
Mason, Jennifer. Qualitative Researching. London: SAGE, 2002. (ReMeth).
Moore, Henrietta L., (ed.)., Anthropological Theory Today. Cambridge: Polity Press, 1999.
Rayner, John D. An Understanding of Judaism. Providence and Oxford: Berghahn Books, 1997. (coll.)
Sangster, W., E. The Craft of Sermon Construction. London: Marshall Pickering, 1989 revised (1st 1954)
Schostak, John. Interviewing and Representation in Qualitative Research. Maidenhead: Open University press, 2006. (ReMeth).
Shulman, Sheila. Watching for the Morning Selected Sermons. Beit Klal Yisrael by Pronoun Press, 2007. (coll.)
Tanner, Mark. How to Preach a Good Sermon: A Practical Guide R38. Cambridge: Grove Books Limited, 2009. (This series is more Booklets than books but the ones I have read have been very useful nevertheless.)
Tashakkori, Abbas and Charles Teddlie. Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. Applied Social Research Methods Series Volume 46. London: SAGE Publications, 1998.
Vibert, Simon. Excellence in Preaching: Learning from the best. Nottingham: Inter-Varsity Press, 2011.
Waller, John. How to prepare and Preach a Sermon W182. Cambridge: Grove Books Limited, 2005. (This series is more Booklets than books but the ones I have read have been very useful nevertheless.)
Most of these books, especially ones on 'how to preach et al', are from a Christian context and are really very Christian indeed. They are nevertheless full of good advice and ideas on how to give a sermon. But if like me you are coming at them from a Jewish perspective just be prepared for the fact the sermon works differently in liturgical contexts of Christianity and Judaism. (AF)
Berkowitz, Henry. 'The Rabbi as Preacher' in Intimate Glimpses of the Rabbi's Career. Cincinnati: Hebrew Union College Press, 1921.
Berry, D., H., (ed., trans). Cicero Political Speeches. Oxford World's Classics. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006.
Cohen, Louis et al. Research Methods in Education. 5th edition London: Routledge Falmer, 2003 (1st edition 2000).
Day, David. A Preaching Workbook. London: SPCK, 2004 (1st 1998). This is an interesting book in general just because of what it can tell about the history of American Reform Judaism.
Hamilton, Donald L., Homiletical Handbook. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1992.
Heywood, David. Transforming Preaching: The Sermon as a Channel for God's Word. SPCK Library of Ministry: London, 2013.
Lord, Jennifer L. Finding Language and Imagery: Words for Holy Speech. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2010.
Mason, Jennifer. Qualitative Researching. London: SAGE, 2002. (ReMeth).
Moore, Henrietta L., (ed.)., Anthropological Theory Today. Cambridge: Polity Press, 1999.
Rayner, John D. An Understanding of Judaism. Providence and Oxford: Berghahn Books, 1997. (coll.)
Sangster, W., E. The Craft of Sermon Construction. London: Marshall Pickering, 1989 revised (1st 1954)
Schostak, John. Interviewing and Representation in Qualitative Research. Maidenhead: Open University press, 2006. (ReMeth).
Shulman, Sheila. Watching for the Morning Selected Sermons. Beit Klal Yisrael by Pronoun Press, 2007. (coll.)
Tanner, Mark. How to Preach a Good Sermon: A Practical Guide R38. Cambridge: Grove Books Limited, 2009. (This series is more Booklets than books but the ones I have read have been very useful nevertheless.)
Tashakkori, Abbas and Charles Teddlie. Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. Applied Social Research Methods Series Volume 46. London: SAGE Publications, 1998.
Vibert, Simon. Excellence in Preaching: Learning from the best. Nottingham: Inter-Varsity Press, 2011.
Waller, John. How to prepare and Preach a Sermon W182. Cambridge: Grove Books Limited, 2005. (This series is more Booklets than books but the ones I have read have been very useful nevertheless.)
Thursday, 12 December 2013
All busy is relative
There is a famous Chasidic story. About a man who goes to see his Rebbe because of his troubles. He lived in his one room house with his wive and his children and it was always crowed and nosey. It was always so nosey and there was always so much going on that he found it impossible to conduct his work as a taylor, study of pray.
The Rebbe listens to his tale and then paused for thought before suggesting, 'Why don't you take your dog into the house?'.
The man is baffled, but follows his Rebbe's advice. A week later he goes back to his Rebbe and pours out his heart. 'Rebbe, its even worse now'. Its crazier than ever and nosier as well.
Again the Rebbe paused, before he suggested, 'Why not bring in your chickens as well'. The man was doubtful but followed the advice. He moved the chickens into the one roomed house along with his family and their dog.
A week latter he was back with the Rebbe, 'Oh Rabbi he said now its unbearable, the chickens clucking, and the dog barking and my children running around all night because they cannot sleep! I'm at my wits end what shall I do'.
Again the Rabbi pauses for thought and prayer before saying. 'One last try, you have two cows nun?, well move them in as well.
Again the man follows the advice of his rabbi and moves the cows into the room along with the dog the chickens and of course his family.
This time its just two days before the man is back with his Rebbe. The Rebbe takes one look at him and says. 'Alright take out the cows, and the chickens and the dog and then come back in a week.'
Always the dutiful chassid the man followed this advice as well.
The next week when he returned he was all smiles, the small house seemed so quite and there appeared to be so much space.
One moral being its how you look at things that makes all the difference.
I have been going though my diary and looking at what I have on and its a lot. But because of how insanely busy last year was even though I have assessments, and commitments at KLS and Limmud and all sorts of other stuff. It feels not only manageable but good.
The Rebbe listens to his tale and then paused for thought before suggesting, 'Why don't you take your dog into the house?'.
The man is baffled, but follows his Rebbe's advice. A week later he goes back to his Rebbe and pours out his heart. 'Rebbe, its even worse now'. Its crazier than ever and nosier as well.
Again the Rebbe paused, before he suggested, 'Why not bring in your chickens as well'. The man was doubtful but followed the advice. He moved the chickens into the one roomed house along with his family and their dog.
A week latter he was back with the Rebbe, 'Oh Rabbi he said now its unbearable, the chickens clucking, and the dog barking and my children running around all night because they cannot sleep! I'm at my wits end what shall I do'.
Again the Rabbi pauses for thought and prayer before saying. 'One last try, you have two cows nun?, well move them in as well.
Again the man follows the advice of his rabbi and moves the cows into the room along with the dog the chickens and of course his family.
This time its just two days before the man is back with his Rebbe. The Rebbe takes one look at him and says. 'Alright take out the cows, and the chickens and the dog and then come back in a week.'
Always the dutiful chassid the man followed this advice as well.
The next week when he returned he was all smiles, the small house seemed so quite and there appeared to be so much space.
One moral being its how you look at things that makes all the difference.
I have been going though my diary and looking at what I have on and its a lot. But because of how insanely busy last year was even though I have assessments, and commitments at KLS and Limmud and all sorts of other stuff. It feels not only manageable but good.
Tuesday, 10 December 2013
Another quick post
Today was a busy but productive day. It got off to a rough start because I had had a really poor nights sleep. At College Emily and I had two presentations the first one was early right after the morning service. Liturgy this went really well I was really happy about and think it will get a good mark. (Although I am more pleased because I think it will result in something useful).
I then had some spare time to rush about and do some chores, they needed to be done. Then it was time for the second presentation of day. Advanced Rabbinic Literature I think this went well as well although not as well as liturgy but good nevertheless.
Then I had to rush off to meet with my personal trainer, it was a good but such a tiring session as she has upped the level again.
Then I came back ate a quick dinner and now even though its still basically early I am going to go to sleep.
Hopefully tomorrow I will make progress on my other pressing commitments.
I then had some spare time to rush about and do some chores, they needed to be done. Then it was time for the second presentation of day. Advanced Rabbinic Literature I think this went well as well although not as well as liturgy but good nevertheless.
Then I had to rush off to meet with my personal trainer, it was a good but such a tiring session as she has upped the level again.
Then I came back ate a quick dinner and now even though its still basically early I am going to go to sleep.
Hopefully tomorrow I will make progress on my other pressing commitments.
Monday, 9 December 2013
A Busy and a productive day
I don't have anything profound to say today, not that thats unusual. But I am going to try and blog more regularly if I can. Today was a busy one but at least I got a lot done with it. As normal it started with a morning service, a really enjoyable one as it happens.
Then I had an extended class on Progressive Rabbinic Decision Marking, which too was very interesting. I came back to flat dropped some of Emily and my things off at the laundrette and then went back into college for our afternoon class on Readings in Modern Jewish Thought which as always was excellent.
Then I went and worked in the Library, which was a hive of activity we must be approaching crunch time. :) where i wrote two presentations which are due to be delivered tomorrow.
Then it was home for dinner (a simple cheese omelette) but it tasted great, probably because I was very hungry by that stage. It also held its shape better than most that make.
I was intending to do some more work on my Rabbinic dissertation research proposal, but I think I am going to leave that until tomorrow and try for an early night.
I have made some progress on Limmud, so I am feeling calmer all around.
Tomorrow is set to be a busy day also so a good nights sleep would be a wonderful thing. So here's hoping.
Then I had an extended class on Progressive Rabbinic Decision Marking, which too was very interesting. I came back to flat dropped some of Emily and my things off at the laundrette and then went back into college for our afternoon class on Readings in Modern Jewish Thought which as always was excellent.
Then I went and worked in the Library, which was a hive of activity we must be approaching crunch time. :) where i wrote two presentations which are due to be delivered tomorrow.
Then it was home for dinner (a simple cheese omelette) but it tasted great, probably because I was very hungry by that stage. It also held its shape better than most that make.
I was intending to do some more work on my Rabbinic dissertation research proposal, but I think I am going to leave that until tomorrow and try for an early night.
I have made some progress on Limmud, so I am feeling calmer all around.
Tomorrow is set to be a busy day also so a good nights sleep would be a wonderful thing. So here's hoping.
Sunday, 8 December 2013
Hanukkah, Home, and lots and lots of work
Hi lovely people over here on this blog, or any of my blogs really. It feels like time for an update. I have been very very very busy and I know I start nearly all my blog postings this way but this is because I nearly always am very busy.
Last weekend I managed to slip in a visit home, which was very nice as Hanukkah was still happening, as always I was surprised by how much Aaron has grown and changed since the last visit even though the prior visit was only five weeks earlier, he is changing at a remarkable rate.
At school academically things are still going well, although as the semester draws to a close I am getting increasingly busy. For example I have two presentations next week, and I am starting to think but essays and the like. I am also quiet a long way along with preparing my research proposal for my Rabbinic Dissertation, which is both good and rather scary. Outside of school work I am still really enjoying working at Kingston Liberal Synagogue, which is a lovely community and I am learning so much from Charley B.
This weekend has proved enjoyable but tiring, Friday Night I went to Hendon Reform Synagogue to their first ever Rock Kabbalat Shabbat, which was a great success and I stayed on for the supper.
Saturday I went down to KLS to attend the interfaith/family service and then afterwards there was a meeting of the teachers for the religion school.
Then that evening I met up with some old friends, Mandy, Ali and Matthew, so that was fun but it meant a late night.
I have, as you will not be surprised to learn, a lot to do today, including the general stuff of life and of course preparation for next week.
Looking forward there is limmud, still a lot to do on my sessions but I am excited about the conference and seeing everyone again. Also this year's chevaruta books look fantastic.
So all in all things are good and there are 574 days to go.
Last weekend I managed to slip in a visit home, which was very nice as Hanukkah was still happening, as always I was surprised by how much Aaron has grown and changed since the last visit even though the prior visit was only five weeks earlier, he is changing at a remarkable rate.
At school academically things are still going well, although as the semester draws to a close I am getting increasingly busy. For example I have two presentations next week, and I am starting to think but essays and the like. I am also quiet a long way along with preparing my research proposal for my Rabbinic Dissertation, which is both good and rather scary. Outside of school work I am still really enjoying working at Kingston Liberal Synagogue, which is a lovely community and I am learning so much from Charley B.
This weekend has proved enjoyable but tiring, Friday Night I went to Hendon Reform Synagogue to their first ever Rock Kabbalat Shabbat, which was a great success and I stayed on for the supper.
Saturday I went down to KLS to attend the interfaith/family service and then afterwards there was a meeting of the teachers for the religion school.
Then that evening I met up with some old friends, Mandy, Ali and Matthew, so that was fun but it meant a late night.
I have, as you will not be surprised to learn, a lot to do today, including the general stuff of life and of course preparation for next week.
Looking forward there is limmud, still a lot to do on my sessions but I am excited about the conference and seeing everyone again. Also this year's chevaruta books look fantastic.
So all in all things are good and there are 574 days to go.
Sunday, 24 November 2013
Another short update
Hey all sorry for the near complete lack of postings over here on this blog but I have been extremely busy. With work at college, my placement, stuff relating to co-charing the student society and of course Limmud sessions (I really wish that I had made more progress with those than I have). Anyway I am still more or less enjoying my classes, the fact that they all have a more practical focus this year is defiantly a good thing.
I am still loving my placement down in Kingston, but the journeying down there and back is very tiring. I am looking forward to Limmud, seeing old friends again and the like, but its going to be a stressful/trying end to my year.
So all in all I am busy and stressed. (So about par for the course really).
In addition to my duties down in Kingston I have been to both Reading and Hendon (not sure if I had down that before my last update or not.)
This weekend has been particularly busy I went with Emily to FPS for Friday night, then around to dinner at LJK's house for dinner. Saturday I was down in Kingston the journey made more interesting because of TFL., was more lengthy than usual.
Today I went with a KLS trip to the Jewish Museum in Camden, and shortly I'm heading out to NIF dinner. So it has been a long and busy weekend with not a lot of recuperation from the school week.
On the bright-side Dr Who was amazing. And I am still very much enjoying working out with Danielle (My personal trainer).
But that's all I've got time for. I'll try and post again before too long.
I am still loving my placement down in Kingston, but the journeying down there and back is very tiring. I am looking forward to Limmud, seeing old friends again and the like, but its going to be a stressful/trying end to my year.
So all in all I am busy and stressed. (So about par for the course really).
In addition to my duties down in Kingston I have been to both Reading and Hendon (not sure if I had down that before my last update or not.)
This weekend has been particularly busy I went with Emily to FPS for Friday night, then around to dinner at LJK's house for dinner. Saturday I was down in Kingston the journey made more interesting because of TFL., was more lengthy than usual.
Today I went with a KLS trip to the Jewish Museum in Camden, and shortly I'm heading out to NIF dinner. So it has been a long and busy weekend with not a lot of recuperation from the school week.
On the bright-side Dr Who was amazing. And I am still very much enjoying working out with Danielle (My personal trainer).
But that's all I've got time for. I'll try and post again before too long.
Saturday, 26 October 2013
A brief update
Hey guys. I have managed to squeeze a weekend out of my timetable to go home. Its always nice to get back to Stoke however briefly and who knows when I'll be able to come back up here again. I am still very busy although more or less on top of things. This is largely thanks to the fact that although I have lots of assessments things are not as insane as they were last semester.
I am enjoying my classes both the practical ones as well as the more utilitarian ones. I think that this is down to the fact that all courses are now more focused on what we'll actually be doing once we are out there. This is all to the good as this is getting nearer and nearer.
I am also enjoying my placement, as well as going down to teach the Kabbalat Torah group I have now lead a service there so it really feels like a real thing now. I have also paid a one off visit to Reading (which also counts towards my 4th year placement). This does mean that I am going to be perching on a much more regular bases so I am going to stop posting them here, unless there is a particularly important reason for me to do so.
As i mentioned in my last post I am busy with my sessions for Limmud in December, so all in all busy but a positive busy.
Outside of School/placement I am still continuing with Daf Yomi we are now in tractate Shekelim, I have also started training/working out with a personal trainer. At first it really felt a little like being hit by a brick wall but it is defiantly starting to get easier and I feel so much better already. I think its really necessary because already taken a toll on my physical health.
All in all I am very busy, but in a good way, but am generally pretty happy with how everything is going.
I am enjoying my classes both the practical ones as well as the more utilitarian ones. I think that this is down to the fact that all courses are now more focused on what we'll actually be doing once we are out there. This is all to the good as this is getting nearer and nearer.
I am also enjoying my placement, as well as going down to teach the Kabbalat Torah group I have now lead a service there so it really feels like a real thing now. I have also paid a one off visit to Reading (which also counts towards my 4th year placement). This does mean that I am going to be perching on a much more regular bases so I am going to stop posting them here, unless there is a particularly important reason for me to do so.
As i mentioned in my last post I am busy with my sessions for Limmud in December, so all in all busy but a positive busy.
Outside of School/placement I am still continuing with Daf Yomi we are now in tractate Shekelim, I have also started training/working out with a personal trainer. At first it really felt a little like being hit by a brick wall but it is defiantly starting to get easier and I feel so much better already. I think its really necessary because already taken a toll on my physical health.
All in all I am very busy, but in a good way, but am generally pretty happy with how everything is going.
Saturday, 12 October 2013
Last post for a little while
Hey Guys so this is going to be my last post for a little while. Nothing bad is happening its just that I am very very busy. First off there're class nothing to awful but enough to keep me busy on top of that Emily and I have our duties as co-chairs of the student society, and of Rabbinic students for Pro-Zion.
Then there is limmud, for which I have taken on rather a lot. But I am excited about it nevertheless, then there is my placement. So end result is I am very very busy and want have much time for blogger. I will try not to fall off the end of world completely though.
At school my class are still interesting although challenging emotionally but I think my internship is going to be great I am learning a lot and its fun and really and truly why I got into this whole business in the first place.
Today I went down to Kingston and taught/interacted with the Kabbalat Torah Class. Who are great and it was defiantly a fun activity. On Thursday I celebrated my birthday it was quite low key I went to the Dignity with Emily, Haim, Sam, and Hannah I didn't drink because I was going to meet with my personal trainer.
It was a really nice night great conversations, tasty food, and lovely friends. The next day I meet up with Danielle and the training was easier than last time but still it made me very tired so I cam home for a rest. In the evening I went off with Emily to Southgate Progressive Synagogue. And then today it was off to KLS.
I still have a bunch of reading to do for next week and I need to work on a few details for upcoming events.
Then there is limmud, for which I have taken on rather a lot. But I am excited about it nevertheless, then there is my placement. So end result is I am very very busy and want have much time for blogger. I will try not to fall off the end of world completely though.
At school my class are still interesting although challenging emotionally but I think my internship is going to be great I am learning a lot and its fun and really and truly why I got into this whole business in the first place.
Today I went down to Kingston and taught/interacted with the Kabbalat Torah Class. Who are great and it was defiantly a fun activity. On Thursday I celebrated my birthday it was quite low key I went to the Dignity with Emily, Haim, Sam, and Hannah I didn't drink because I was going to meet with my personal trainer.
It was a really nice night great conversations, tasty food, and lovely friends. The next day I meet up with Danielle and the training was easier than last time but still it made me very tired so I cam home for a rest. In the evening I went off with Emily to Southgate Progressive Synagogue. And then today it was off to KLS.
I still have a bunch of reading to do for next week and I need to work on a few details for upcoming events.
Sunday, 6 October 2013
settling into my fourth year
Just the title of this posting is a little scary. But yes it does feel as if this year is settling into place, much faster than usual and although I am academically going to be a lot less busy this year than I was last I think that I will nevertheless be busy enough that I don't know when I get to blog again so this posting might have to do for a bit. (Although I might make a post Birthday blog post in about a week).
So, my classes at LBC look good and the assessments do not look to bad at all, in fact I think that I will enjoy doing some of them. We also have a nice balance between the academic (which is now at MA level) and the practical which is nice.
But additional reasons to be busy, firstly Emily and I are co-chairs of the Student Society, which is more work but hopefully we will be able to do a good job in representing the needs of the student body and in working towards making the college a happier place. Additionally Emily and I are really pushing 'Rabbinic Students for Pro-Zion'. This will be a lot of work but I am really excited and keen about it so this is good.
Then there is Limmud, not the Limmud Chervaruta Project but the conference itself, where I will be presenting sessions. So busy there as well.
One of our classes this semester is on 'research methods', part of which is looking forward to preparing us to write our Rabbinic Thesis. This too is making this year feel both very real and very different from those which have come before. As if, the end is if not in sight then as if it will be insight once we get around this next corner.
Outside of College, I am getting more and more excited about my 4th year placement at KLS. Last Saturday I went down to see how their Saturday Morning services work. And it was a very special occasion, so it will have been both more crowed and livelier than normal. But nevertheless I think that working there is going to be a truly great experience.
Outside of both work and College I am working with a personal trainer (yes I know) so far I have only had one session the aftereffects of which I am really starting to feel. But I think that it is important to do, because my life style hasn't exactly been helping my overall health and in the long run I think it will make me fill a lot better.
So generally I am busy again but its a good kind of busy. And I have definite markers lying ahead so it feels as if I am making progress with the year. Next week my birthday, then a very early Hanukkah, getting ready for Limmud, the end of the school term, Limmud, essays and exams. (By which time we are already into 2014).
The spring semester is always a bit broken up and then the year draws to a close. But I am not thinking about next semester yet. There is a lot to keep me focused on the here and now. But all in all I am stull really happy and enjoying my 4th year.
So, my classes at LBC look good and the assessments do not look to bad at all, in fact I think that I will enjoy doing some of them. We also have a nice balance between the academic (which is now at MA level) and the practical which is nice.
But additional reasons to be busy, firstly Emily and I are co-chairs of the Student Society, which is more work but hopefully we will be able to do a good job in representing the needs of the student body and in working towards making the college a happier place. Additionally Emily and I are really pushing 'Rabbinic Students for Pro-Zion'. This will be a lot of work but I am really excited and keen about it so this is good.
Then there is Limmud, not the Limmud Chervaruta Project but the conference itself, where I will be presenting sessions. So busy there as well.
One of our classes this semester is on 'research methods', part of which is looking forward to preparing us to write our Rabbinic Thesis. This too is making this year feel both very real and very different from those which have come before. As if, the end is if not in sight then as if it will be insight once we get around this next corner.
Outside of College, I am getting more and more excited about my 4th year placement at KLS. Last Saturday I went down to see how their Saturday Morning services work. And it was a very special occasion, so it will have been both more crowed and livelier than normal. But nevertheless I think that working there is going to be a truly great experience.
Outside of both work and College I am working with a personal trainer (yes I know) so far I have only had one session the aftereffects of which I am really starting to feel. But I think that it is important to do, because my life style hasn't exactly been helping my overall health and in the long run I think it will make me fill a lot better.
So generally I am busy again but its a good kind of busy. And I have definite markers lying ahead so it feels as if I am making progress with the year. Next week my birthday, then a very early Hanukkah, getting ready for Limmud, the end of the school term, Limmud, essays and exams. (By which time we are already into 2014).
The spring semester is always a bit broken up and then the year draws to a close. But I am not thinking about next semester yet. There is a lot to keep me focused on the here and now. But all in all I am stull really happy and enjoying my 4th year.
Sunday, 29 September 2013
First week at school and a very busy weekend.
I have completed my first week of my fourth year and I have to stay that I am very upbeat about my courses, there is a good range of classes covering a good mixture between vocational/practical and purely academic. Last week was a little disrupted because of the festivals, but now the HHD season is finally and fully over I can get on with normal work under a normal schedule.
On Wednesday I had lunch in the NNLS succah and on Thursday I returned there for the evening service, and then it was the weekend which as it turned out was rather busy. On Friday I headed down to KLS, where I shall be spending my 4th year placement, this was just to do some legal/adminestive things.
I then returned to Central London and went to the Routes (LJ) supper-club which was great. Good company (more people than usual), interesting Torah and wonderful food. Then on Saturday I went to Finchley Progressive Synagogue (it was a Bat-Mitzvah) so very busy. Sunday I went to LJ Educational Networking seminar which was very interesting and one of the first times that I represented KLS formally.
I am, I have to say, rather tired. But I am nevertheless looking forward to the first uninterrupted week at school.
On Wednesday I had lunch in the NNLS succah and on Thursday I returned there for the evening service, and then it was the weekend which as it turned out was rather busy. On Friday I headed down to KLS, where I shall be spending my 4th year placement, this was just to do some legal/adminestive things.
I then returned to Central London and went to the Routes (LJ) supper-club which was great. Good company (more people than usual), interesting Torah and wonderful food. Then on Saturday I went to Finchley Progressive Synagogue (it was a Bat-Mitzvah) so very busy. Sunday I went to LJ Educational Networking seminar which was very interesting and one of the first times that I represented KLS formally.
I am, I have to say, rather tired. But I am nevertheless looking forward to the first uninterrupted week at school.
Saturday, 21 September 2013
New School Year
On Monday a New School Year will start my fourth at rabbinical-school, and I think I am, for the first time entirely upbeat and positive. I am really looking forward to it my classes which looking manageable if challenging and my practical placement. Although looking forward to school starting is normal for me, there had to be a reason after all that I lingered in the groves of academe as long as I did. It was not however, how I have experienced rabbinical-school. My first semester was engulfed in chaos, see the blog for 2010 if you are interested. And although I was settled and looking forward to restarting school for my second semester it was defiantly tinged with sorrow that my YII was drawing to a close and I would soon be parted from Israel and so many great friends with whom I had shared the most life changing (and best so far) year of my life.
My second year got off to a rough start too and I was sufficiently unhappy that it clouded my fourth semester as well. I think looking back that I was probably depressed (and because I didn't know it I was getting treatment).
And although I was more settled in my third year I cannot say I was every really really looking forward to my work and classes restarting.
But things are different now, I am impatient for it to start, and I am feeling up-beat so much so that I am certain that the little things that go wrong (as is certain to happen from time to time) will be a source of humour and colour in my life rather than big deals.
On Friday I had a meeting with my new personal trainer, all part of the get healthy campaign. I also discovered a rather interesting leftwing book shop and came away with a couple of books.
So far succot has been pleasant, and although I don't have a succah (first floor flat and all that) I do have a lulav and Etrog.
The project for Limmud is all but done. Part of my activities for tomorrow are making another view of it. I am meeting up with Matthew, Mandy, Ali and prahapes someother friends tomorrow afternoon/evening.
All is basically well.
My second year got off to a rough start too and I was sufficiently unhappy that it clouded my fourth semester as well. I think looking back that I was probably depressed (and because I didn't know it I was getting treatment).
And although I was more settled in my third year I cannot say I was every really really looking forward to my work and classes restarting.
But things are different now, I am impatient for it to start, and I am feeling up-beat so much so that I am certain that the little things that go wrong (as is certain to happen from time to time) will be a source of humour and colour in my life rather than big deals.
On Friday I had a meeting with my new personal trainer, all part of the get healthy campaign. I also discovered a rather interesting leftwing book shop and came away with a couple of books.
So far succot has been pleasant, and although I don't have a succah (first floor flat and all that) I do have a lulav and Etrog.
The project for Limmud is all but done. Part of my activities for tomorrow are making another view of it. I am meeting up with Matthew, Mandy, Ali and prahapes someother friends tomorrow afternoon/evening.
All is basically well.
Monday, 16 September 2013
Yom Kippur sermon two
Yom Kippur Morning 2013
Rabbi
Mordecai Yosef Leiner (1801-1854), the Ishbitzer Rebbe, was a
radical, idiosyncratic and indeed iconoclastic thinker and Hasidic
teacher. He was the most novel thinker to emerge from the most
radical school of hasidic thought, that of Kotzk-Przysuch, sometimes
referred to as 'the Polish-School'
The
Ishibitzer was a colleague-disciple of Kotzker Rebbe, more often
known as Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Kotzk (1787-1859). Rabbi Mendel of
Kotzk was in turn the disciple of Simcha Bunim of Peshisha
(1765-1827). Together these three great teachers provided leadership
to this most innovative of hassidic communities. After the deaths of
the Ishbitzer in 1854 and Rabbi Mendel in 1859, the radicalism of
their movement ceased and it became like any other hasidic dynasty.
Indeed by the middle of the 19th century the early light
and fire of the hasidic movement had largely gone out.
But
for a while, maybe as much as sixty years, the hasidic school of
Kotzk-Przysuch was radical indeed. Somewhat anti-nominal these three
leaders, and their hasidim were concerned more with the deeper
meanings of the halakhah than with a minute details of its
extremities. They were also radical in liturgical terms as well
making alterations to the siddur and attempting to really pray the
prayers (a concern shared by other early hasidic groups as well).
There
teachings are challenging, not so much because they are
intellectually difficult but because of what the implications are. It
is not by chance that many of the sayings of these three teachers are
recorded in both Liberal and Reform prayer books. But their
teachings are not just challenging, they also reflect the personal
challenges these three teachers faced, ones that were reflected in
contemporary and latter western philosophy and philosophers, such as
Soren Kierkegaard and Nietzsche and latter the existentialist.
All
three, Rabbi Simcha Bunim of Peshisha, the Kotzker, and the Ishbitzer
face problems of Jewish life and Judaism which are all too
recognisable to us today. Rabbi Simcha Bunim, for example, was
trained as a pharmacist, wore western dress and even attended treater
performances. He was very concerned with how an authentic and
meaningful Jewish life could be continued in the modern-world, his
successor the Kotzker was also concerned with authenticity although
in his writings his concern with authenticity has been transformed
into a burning concern with אמת
truth. For Rabbi
Menachem Morgensztern anything short of the complete truth was
falsehood and tantamount to idolatry.
What
we have of the writings of all three of these teachers is from their
students, they wrote nothing first had themselves. While the records
of Simcha Bunim and the Kotzker are short and in a simply (very
easily accessible style) those of the Ishbitzer recorded in the two
volumes of the Mei HaShiloach are couched in complex language
and though the prism of kabbalah and kabbalistic metaphor. Although
unsurprisingly in the hands of the Ishbitzer familiar kabbalistic
concepts take on new (and sometimes radically different meanings).
This
is the most palpable feeling I took away from studying some of his
writings, the sense of the 'shock of the old'.
In
his re-reading of Biblical Narratives, characters who are normally
presented negatively, Esau, Zimri (whom you may remember was stabbed
though the loans by Pinchas) and indeed others.
Such
a radical re-taling of Biblical narratives from an unusual
perspective is both useful and I would say necessary because
familiarity the feeling that we remember what the Bible says, or what
we think it says.
Can
blind us to what it actually has to say to us, here and now.
Familiarity does indeed bread contempt.
On
Rosh HaShanah we are unlikely to hear the radical theological
challenge of the Akadah, because we have hard it read so many times
and know before we even start that in the end God will intervene and
Isaac will not be sacrificed.
Today's
Torah reading(s) also offer the challenge of familiarity parts of
readings at least will be familiar, or even very familiarly from the
liturgy both traditional parts and, indeed new parts in Liberal and
Reform prayer books. Parts might even be familiar from popular
culture such as the opening monolog of Transporting.
But
wether our reading is familiar or less familiar it still carries a
powerful and radical message. One addressed both to the individual,
but also to the community to which that individual (that we belong).
A message of the conditionality of the covenant, but a message that
reassures that not only is power to act within our hands it is within
our very being.
God
begins his address to the Israelites, though Moses by saying, You (in
the plural) and then listing the types of people, in summary Everyone
was there. Then there is a rather unusual verse:
And
not only with you do I make this sworn covenant, but with those who
are standing here with us today before the Eternal One our God, and
equally with those who are not here with us today.
The classical commentators ask,
reasonably enough if everyone was standing before God, who are these
others? And one of the answers offered is that they are future
generations, us included.
Just as during Passover and the
Sader the individual is meant to feel 'as if', they personally had
been redeemed from Egypt.
Here too, the individual can
(maybe even should) feel as if the choice of entering into the
covenant, or not had been set before them.
No,
it is very near to you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may
do it.
And as Simcha Bunim and the
Kotzker would have argued it is a personal and personally authentic
covenant.
On
the subject of Teshuvah (repentance) the Ishbitzer was again unusual
in his thinking he did not really think of sins as a problem. For him
what was the real problem was the belief that once you had sinned
that was that. Indeed for the Ishbitzer this was Adam Harisson's sin.
Not eating from the tree, not blaming eve but the belief that once he
had sinned that was it.
Again
as our reading this Yom Kippur reminded us, the ability for returning
is within us all.
Gamar
Hatimah Tovah.
Yom Kippur sermon one
Exit
Though the Gift-shop
The
architecture of many museums, art galleries, and other places of
artistic or cultural significance is often configured in such away
that at the end of a tour or visit, before leaving and returning to
the world beyond the gallery's door, one passes though the gift-shop. This
commercialisation of culture is of very necessary from the
perspective of the individual institution, as it is though such
commercial enterprises that they meet much of their running costs, if
not in fact funding their war-chest for the acquisition of new
artefacts for their collections and for the nation. In
the case of some major British museums one of the senior management
team will be in charge of and responsible for the smooth running of
the museum-shop. These
shops have both expanded, great and altered since my time visiting
them on school-outings. Both the range and quality of their
merchandise has changed, almost in fact beyond recognition. The
British Museum for example has serval shops from one in which you can
buy the normal range of post cards, pen, pencils, and other assorted
odds and ends aimed at children and priced accordingly though to a
shop which specialises in replicas of some of the sculptures housed
in the hallowed halls of the museum which a well-to-do visitor may
well have seen and loved so much that they wont one for their very
own. As an aside as a boy from Stoke-on-Trent I am gratified that
their most expensive item is replica of the Portland verse made to
order by Wedgwood.
And
as the adage goes, 'if you have to ask the price, then you cannot
afford it'.
But
whether small or large, priced in pennies or in hundreds (or even
thousands) of pounds the basic principle underlying the transaction
is the same.
Nor
is the museum-shop as exit unique to England, indeed I think it must
be rather universal.
During
my year in Israel I had the opportunity of visiting a fairly largely
number of museums there, from the Israel Museum and Bialik's house
though to minor art galleries and archaeological sites tucked away in
small places in the peripheries of the county. In Israel too one
exited though the gift shop, only there the gifts on offer were
different. Some where common to all Israeli museums. Olive-wood in
various shapes and forms, small bottles of oil scent with
frankincense. Other girts however, were more connected with the
place. I still have my hamsa from Binyamina and as a result remember the museum
about the history of the town.
Again
the basic idea underlying these museum-door transactions is a
straightforward one. The museum gains valuable funds, but museum goer
has perhaps gained even more than the museum has.
The
art gallery or museum goer, has encountered the other. They might
even have come to a deeper understanding of themselves. Yet, they
must return to world outside the walls of the museum, the perches of
something, anything, from the museum shop is an attempt to take
something of the museum experience away with us, and indeed to pass
it on to someone else.
From
the time of the Enlightenment onwards, certainly from the time of
French Revaluation onwards, trips to galleries and museums has
largely replaced the classical idea of the religious pilgrimage. Far
more people have been to museums than have gone on pilgrimage.
The
medieval pilgrimage too, would have concluded with the opportunity
for the pilgrim to buy keepsakes of their their pilgrimage. In the
Jewish tradition, from the Biblical period onwards, had three main
pilgrimages. Passover, Shavout, and Succot.
Succot
brings the period of the High Holy Days to a close, and in biblical times many, many
people would have already been in Jerusalem on Yom Kippur, the
holiest day of the year.
It
is now almost two thousand years since the destruction of the Second
Temple and the end of pilgrimage as a major theme in Judaism.
To
be sure some elements of pilgrimage continued, and continue in
Judaism. To the grave sites of famous rabbis and to various Biblical
locations, not to mention the interesting phenomenon of the 'secular
Jewish pilgrimage'.
Nevertheless
and all that said, pilgrimages slipped from the Jewish mainstream.
The
rabbis who invented, or re-invented Judaism had to copy with the lost
of the martial and physical.
In
the place sacrifices, liturgy. In place of passover in the Temple the
remarkable achievement that is seder shell pasche.
Each
festival was given something unique, and new something which
reflected its past but something which had be transformed.
Rosh
Hashanah, has the sound of the shofar, Yom Kippur has, among other
things Kol Nidrei.
There
is a much used metaphor for the Days of awe, that of a journey. And
it is much used because it is both powerful and accurate. Taken
together Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the days between take us, if
we let them, on a journey.
Unlike
our ancient counterparts we have untaken a virtual we have not walked
to Jerusalem to Temple to make our offerings see the rituals
performed and then return changed. We have rather, prayed, study and
mediated together and individually.
The
word Teshuvah normally translated as repentance, in Hebrew contains
the word for return, however transforming the Days of Awe are,
however much they are a journey, in the end we need to return to
world outside of the synagogue.
Just
as those who came before, had to return from Jerusalem to their
homes. From sacred places and holy times, to the secular and the
mundane. I am sure that in ancient times there were people ready and
willing to sell the pilgrims moments to help them hold onto something
of their experiences.
There
are no market stools at the end of our journey from which we could
buy mementos, nor when the journey ends as it will shortly we will
not leave though any gift-shops. We can however, take something of
the season and from our journey with us.
If
we can carry some fragments from our journey during the days of awe
into our day-to-day lives. Then when the last note of last shofar
call has faded away, and we have returned then our journey together
will most assuredly not have been wasted.
גמר חתימה
טובה
Sunday, 15 September 2013
Yom Kippur and the end of summer
The Summer is decidedly over! At Rosh Hashanah it was over 30 degrees peeking at 33 degrees in Eastbourne I am now back in the flat after Yom Kippur and its really chilly, with cold gusty winds black and grey clouds rashing across the sky. It feels like late Autumn rather than early September.
Anyway, yom Kippur went really well (although I had fewer people than at Rosh Hashanah) I was happy with how I lead the services, the Torah readings went well. I was also pleased with my two sermons one was really only Okay-though good, but the other was good-though-very good, so generally I am happy. Oh the Israel study session was also a success. They asked to be sent additional information, which really is a good sign.
After Yom Kippur mum, dad and me had a really nice meal in a local restaurant I spent the night in the hotel before returning to London the next day after seeing mum and dad safely to Euston. It being sunday traveling was harder than it needed to be though.
Funnily we meet a Menorah member at Euston as well as seeing J. Mags at Victoria. I am now catching up with emails and other stuff that I left undone before the holiday (although I'll go to bed early today because I am still shattered after YK).
It is odd though because of the time, I've had the whole of the HHDs before school started so my first school related thing is tomorrow. But marker one of the year is already gone. I have a feeling that this year is going to go very very fast.
Any way I'll post my sermons at some point.
Onwards and up wards (Oh and 657 days and counting)
Anyway, yom Kippur went really well (although I had fewer people than at Rosh Hashanah) I was happy with how I lead the services, the Torah readings went well. I was also pleased with my two sermons one was really only Okay-though good, but the other was good-though-very good, so generally I am happy. Oh the Israel study session was also a success. They asked to be sent additional information, which really is a good sign.
After Yom Kippur mum, dad and me had a really nice meal in a local restaurant I spent the night in the hotel before returning to London the next day after seeing mum and dad safely to Euston. It being sunday traveling was harder than it needed to be though.
Funnily we meet a Menorah member at Euston as well as seeing J. Mags at Victoria. I am now catching up with emails and other stuff that I left undone before the holiday (although I'll go to bed early today because I am still shattered after YK).
It is odd though because of the time, I've had the whole of the HHDs before school started so my first school related thing is tomorrow. But marker one of the year is already gone. I have a feeling that this year is going to go very very fast.
Any way I'll post my sermons at some point.
Onwards and up wards (Oh and 657 days and counting)
Saturday, 7 September 2013
Some Photos from Eastbourne
Here, if I can make it work are some photos from Rosh Hashanah at Eastbourne.
This is just me with Eastbourne's Safer Torah, in its High Holy Day white, its easy to lift and carry but a little difficult to read, although I did a good job. The real challenge will be on Yom Kippur.
Sorry about the lighting, we had to draw the curtains because of how bright and hot the sunlight was. 32 degrees. Too hot, to be leading Rosh Hashanah services really.
Me with mum and dad in the church hall where services were being held.
Now I should go and enjoy the rest of shabbat, and then get on with preparations for Yom Kippur.
Friday, 6 September 2013
Rosh Hashanah in Eastbourne
I am now back in my flat in London, and am very pleased to be. Although Eastbourne is a wonderful community and the service went well I was very tired by the end. As I as things went well we were meeting in a church, 'Christ the King'. But the room was very pleasant and the congregation participatory and nice.
I felt much happier with the service this year, I am more used to Liberal liturgy than I was. I was also happy with my Torah reading, although the scroll is not great I think it must have been prepared and so was much better than I had been led to believe it would be. On Erev Rosh Hashanah I preached, and on the morning I gave a study session. After some feed back I am going to add a D'var Torah to my Yom Kippur services as well as a sermon on Kol Nideri. After the service some of us went for lunch in a near by restaurant before I saw mum and dad safely to Euston and came back to the flat. (The weather in Eastbourne was hot, too hot really) but now its raining and feels very autumnal. I still have a lot to do for Yom Kippur, hopefully will be able to have a skype meeting about that. And there still remains much to do with the new flat and moving.
But here is more or less what I said on Erev Rosh Hashanah.
There is a brilliant paper by Auerbach entitled, 'The Scar of Odysseus', in which he describes the essential and fundamental differences between classical Greek Literature and the narratives found in the Hebrew Bible. In its most basic form his argument is that classical Greek Literature describes both physical characteristics and emotional events in great detail, even as in the title of his paper, to the scar on the foot of Odysseus, by means of which his maid is able recognise him on his return home to Ithaca, Homer, the author in question, then goes on to relate the hunting accident in the course of which the scar was received. All this detail interrupts the flow of the narrative.
Nothing could stand in more contrast to this style of narrative than that other ancient form, that found in the Tanach.
The example of Biblical narrative that Auerbach uses to illustrate his point is that of the Akedah, the binding of Isaac, which we will read tomorrow. But he could, in truth, have chosen almost any of the narratives of the Bible.
What did Abraham look like? We do not know, what did Isaac look like? What happened on the journey together? Even the question of, 'How old was Isaac?', A child?, A young man?, or even perhaps a fully grown adult.
All these details are left out. They are left for us, and for the midrash to read into the text. So rare are descriptions in the Bible, and in Biblical narrative that there is a special term to describe them פרט תאורי literally a detailed description. But even then this will be a word here, or a short phase there rather than the paragraphs of extended Homeric poetry.
For example Joseph is given a description. ויהי יוסף יפה-תאר ויפה מארה and Joseph was fair of complexion and good to look at.
And that's it. Now imagine what Homer might have done? But whenever a detailed description is given it signals something of importances or significance. In the case of this description of Joseph it introduces the whole incident of Pontifar's wife.
What of the story that is the focus of our Rosh Hashanah service tonight and tomorrow? What of the Akedah? It is full of details, or at least half details, ones which beg questions but offer few imminent answers.
Abraham rose early, the journey took three days, Isaac and Abraham were accompanied by two young men. All deals each on opportunity for exegesis and midrash.
All of these add to what is already a strange and troubling story.
Who is even the main protagonist, the hero of our tale. As Odysseus is the hero of the odyssey. Is it Abraham who was prepared to sacrifice his son?, Isaac who permitted himself to be bound?, Sarah who is absent from the whole narrative, or maybe as Yehuda Amichai suggested it was the Ram? The ram was after all the only creature to die, to be killed during the Akedah.
The ram's horn is still blown on Rosh Hashanah, and the shofar and its primal music are perhaps the most potent symbols of the season, is the ram the hero then?
In ten days time we will meet again for Yom Kippur. What is the stand out story for that solemn day? I would suggest that rather than any of the Torah readings the main story of note for Yom Kippur is that of Jonah, that short book about that strange prophet read on the holiest day of year.
Who is the hero there?, Jonah? Human certainly, but a hero, I think not. The king of Nineveh who repented so speedily? Again I think it most unlikely. The common sailors who tried so hard not to throw Jonah over board, maybe...maybe, they certainly appear as righteous people and although pagans they are given positive afterstories by the midrash.
No I would argue that the hero of the Jonah story and therefore of the whole day, is the vine which grew up overnight to shade Jonah and was killed the next day simply to teach Jonah a life lesson. After all, Jonah, nineveh, sailors and the whale are all alive and more or less well at the end of the book. Only the vine has died.
Both the vine outside Nineveh and the Ram on the mountain are silent characters both of whom can be overlooked, even in the Akedah Abraham's attention had to be drawn to the ram entangled in the brush. And both the Ram and Vine are the sole fatalities in both these narratives where no-one else dies.
Greek epic poetry maybe rich in description and fully of details, but classical Hebrew narrative has a power all of its own. Odysseus, Euryclea and Agamenon do not feel real whereas, Jonah, Abrahama and Isaac do. At least to me.
Some details can and do matter, and overlooked people can change not only our lives but also the world.
The sound of the shofar calls to mind the season, the work of teshuvah and the call of God to action and changed. This year may we spare a though for otherwise unsung heroes of the world the Ram and the Vine included.
And take comfort form the knowledge that some acts we undertake can course profound changes.
May we be inscribed in the book of life for a good year.
Ken Yehi Razton.
I felt much happier with the service this year, I am more used to Liberal liturgy than I was. I was also happy with my Torah reading, although the scroll is not great I think it must have been prepared and so was much better than I had been led to believe it would be. On Erev Rosh Hashanah I preached, and on the morning I gave a study session. After some feed back I am going to add a D'var Torah to my Yom Kippur services as well as a sermon on Kol Nideri. After the service some of us went for lunch in a near by restaurant before I saw mum and dad safely to Euston and came back to the flat. (The weather in Eastbourne was hot, too hot really) but now its raining and feels very autumnal. I still have a lot to do for Yom Kippur, hopefully will be able to have a skype meeting about that. And there still remains much to do with the new flat and moving.
But here is more or less what I said on Erev Rosh Hashanah.
There is a brilliant paper by Auerbach entitled, 'The Scar of Odysseus', in which he describes the essential and fundamental differences between classical Greek Literature and the narratives found in the Hebrew Bible. In its most basic form his argument is that classical Greek Literature describes both physical characteristics and emotional events in great detail, even as in the title of his paper, to the scar on the foot of Odysseus, by means of which his maid is able recognise him on his return home to Ithaca, Homer, the author in question, then goes on to relate the hunting accident in the course of which the scar was received. All this detail interrupts the flow of the narrative.
Nothing could stand in more contrast to this style of narrative than that other ancient form, that found in the Tanach.
The example of Biblical narrative that Auerbach uses to illustrate his point is that of the Akedah, the binding of Isaac, which we will read tomorrow. But he could, in truth, have chosen almost any of the narratives of the Bible.
What did Abraham look like? We do not know, what did Isaac look like? What happened on the journey together? Even the question of, 'How old was Isaac?', A child?, A young man?, or even perhaps a fully grown adult.
All these details are left out. They are left for us, and for the midrash to read into the text. So rare are descriptions in the Bible, and in Biblical narrative that there is a special term to describe them פרט תאורי literally a detailed description. But even then this will be a word here, or a short phase there rather than the paragraphs of extended Homeric poetry.
For example Joseph is given a description. ויהי יוסף יפה-תאר ויפה מארה and Joseph was fair of complexion and good to look at.
And that's it. Now imagine what Homer might have done? But whenever a detailed description is given it signals something of importances or significance. In the case of this description of Joseph it introduces the whole incident of Pontifar's wife.
What of the story that is the focus of our Rosh Hashanah service tonight and tomorrow? What of the Akedah? It is full of details, or at least half details, ones which beg questions but offer few imminent answers.
Abraham rose early, the journey took three days, Isaac and Abraham were accompanied by two young men. All deals each on opportunity for exegesis and midrash.
All of these add to what is already a strange and troubling story.
Who is even the main protagonist, the hero of our tale. As Odysseus is the hero of the odyssey. Is it Abraham who was prepared to sacrifice his son?, Isaac who permitted himself to be bound?, Sarah who is absent from the whole narrative, or maybe as Yehuda Amichai suggested it was the Ram? The ram was after all the only creature to die, to be killed during the Akedah.
The ram's horn is still blown on Rosh Hashanah, and the shofar and its primal music are perhaps the most potent symbols of the season, is the ram the hero then?
In ten days time we will meet again for Yom Kippur. What is the stand out story for that solemn day? I would suggest that rather than any of the Torah readings the main story of note for Yom Kippur is that of Jonah, that short book about that strange prophet read on the holiest day of year.
Who is the hero there?, Jonah? Human certainly, but a hero, I think not. The king of Nineveh who repented so speedily? Again I think it most unlikely. The common sailors who tried so hard not to throw Jonah over board, maybe...maybe, they certainly appear as righteous people and although pagans they are given positive afterstories by the midrash.
No I would argue that the hero of the Jonah story and therefore of the whole day, is the vine which grew up overnight to shade Jonah and was killed the next day simply to teach Jonah a life lesson. After all, Jonah, nineveh, sailors and the whale are all alive and more or less well at the end of the book. Only the vine has died.
Both the vine outside Nineveh and the Ram on the mountain are silent characters both of whom can be overlooked, even in the Akedah Abraham's attention had to be drawn to the ram entangled in the brush. And both the Ram and Vine are the sole fatalities in both these narratives where no-one else dies.
Greek epic poetry maybe rich in description and fully of details, but classical Hebrew narrative has a power all of its own. Odysseus, Euryclea and Agamenon do not feel real whereas, Jonah, Abrahama and Isaac do. At least to me.
Some details can and do matter, and overlooked people can change not only our lives but also the world.
The sound of the shofar calls to mind the season, the work of teshuvah and the call of God to action and changed. This year may we spare a though for otherwise unsung heroes of the world the Ram and the Vine included.
And take comfort form the knowledge that some acts we undertake can course profound changes.
May we be inscribed in the book of life for a good year.
Ken Yehi Razton.
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
Getting ready for Rosh Hashanah
As I type I am sitting in my hotel room in Eastbourne, I can actually hear the seagulls on the sea, and for that matter the sound of holiday makers enjoying the last of summer. Its actually very summer like. Shortly I will head off to lead the evening services for Rosh Hashanah. I am feeling pretty up-beat about it. My sermon is good and I am happy with my study session for tomorrow and with my Torah reading (we will have to see how things actually go.)
But I certainly feel much happier this year than I did last, and so much more so than my first time leading in Coventry.
It has made me think about the past, last year in Manchester, two years ago in Coventry and amazing three years ago in Jerusalem. Before that things blur into the many, many High Holy Day seasons I spent at Menorah.
( I am also getting to grips with Yom Kippur, sermons, readings, and study sessions) but I still have a bunch of stuff to do.
On the new flat front, there is still some stuff to do, admin stuff mostly. Last week Emily's mum was over from Canada. To help with the move, and it was really really useful to have her around to help. It was also fun, especially I think for Emily.
Mainly work, but some fun things also, a window shopping trip to London proper.
Any this is really no time to be blogging. I am going for a short walk before services.
Shannah Tovah to one and all.
May 5774 be year of blessings and joys for all who read this.
But I certainly feel much happier this year than I did last, and so much more so than my first time leading in Coventry.
It has made me think about the past, last year in Manchester, two years ago in Coventry and amazing three years ago in Jerusalem. Before that things blur into the many, many High Holy Day seasons I spent at Menorah.
( I am also getting to grips with Yom Kippur, sermons, readings, and study sessions) but I still have a bunch of stuff to do.
On the new flat front, there is still some stuff to do, admin stuff mostly. Last week Emily's mum was over from Canada. To help with the move, and it was really really useful to have her around to help. It was also fun, especially I think for Emily.
Mainly work, but some fun things also, a window shopping trip to London proper.
Any this is really no time to be blogging. I am going for a short walk before services.
Shannah Tovah to one and all.
May 5774 be year of blessings and joys for all who read this.
Friday, 30 August 2013
Shabbat in New Flat
Emily and I are now in our new flat and finally departed the old one today. There is still much to do in the new one, especially because it is small and everything needs must find a place and as much as possible stick to it.
But I am very happy to be in. I also feel more or less ready for Rosh HaShannah and Yom Kippur is coming along as well. Then of course the fun and games of the 4th start what fresh things will it bring? Only time will tell. But I feel ready for it begin, but then I feel that each and every year and it always is more 'interesting', than I had anticipated.
But I am very happy to be in. I also feel more or less ready for Rosh HaShannah and Yom Kippur is coming along as well. Then of course the fun and games of the 4th start what fresh things will it bring? Only time will tell. But I feel ready for it begin, but then I feel that each and every year and it always is more 'interesting', than I had anticipated.
Friday, 16 August 2013
High Holy Days and moving
The preparations for the move continue, world is still in boxes and we are sorting out all the little things that need doing, one by one. That said we still have a lot to do, I am also busy preparing for the High Holy Days. Looking though the prayer book, writing sermons and study sessions. So far I have finished one sermon. Its printed and ready to go (and I am actually really rather happy with it) I have also almost finished the basic parts of a study session so all in all I am rather happy with how things are going.
Naturally enough my thoughts are also turning towards my 4th year placement, and my 4th year in general which is starting to take shape. Although I would like a more comprehensive view of what it will look like, but as I am occupied with my up coming move and the HHDs it doesn't matter all that much. But I do know I have a class on Megilot (I don't foresee any problems), one on research methods (again been there done that should be fine), and practical rabbinics will focus on death and dying (I have some back ground there as well and feel confident about this course), thats really all I know so far but that is enough.
In terms of my placement I need to do 80 sessions, although a session is broadly defined. I have been in some discussion with Charley about what these might look like and I am really starting to get excited about the prospect.
It has made me think though, when I got to LBC after my year in Israel as a second year I was so convinced that the 4th years really really knew what they were doing and what it was all about, never mind the 5th who were demi-rabbis.
Now I am about to be one, I realise that its not necessarily like that, unless I am massively behind the curve, which I am almost certain I am not, then I really know that as a 4th year (albeit a very very new one) I am still finding my feet and learning.
But it does mean I have responsibilities towards the students in lower years, just as the 4th and 5th years really took me under their wings when I was a second year.
I think that the project I was doing for Limmud is all but wrapped up. I remember of course that those last little bits can take forever.
But all in all things are progressing nicely.
Oh and 688 Days to go.
Naturally enough my thoughts are also turning towards my 4th year placement, and my 4th year in general which is starting to take shape. Although I would like a more comprehensive view of what it will look like, but as I am occupied with my up coming move and the HHDs it doesn't matter all that much. But I do know I have a class on Megilot (I don't foresee any problems), one on research methods (again been there done that should be fine), and practical rabbinics will focus on death and dying (I have some back ground there as well and feel confident about this course), thats really all I know so far but that is enough.
In terms of my placement I need to do 80 sessions, although a session is broadly defined. I have been in some discussion with Charley about what these might look like and I am really starting to get excited about the prospect.
It has made me think though, when I got to LBC after my year in Israel as a second year I was so convinced that the 4th years really really knew what they were doing and what it was all about, never mind the 5th who were demi-rabbis.
Now I am about to be one, I realise that its not necessarily like that, unless I am massively behind the curve, which I am almost certain I am not, then I really know that as a 4th year (albeit a very very new one) I am still finding my feet and learning.
But it does mean I have responsibilities towards the students in lower years, just as the 4th and 5th years really took me under their wings when I was a second year.
I think that the project I was doing for Limmud is all but wrapped up. I remember of course that those last little bits can take forever.
But all in all things are progressing nicely.
Oh and 688 Days to go.
Sunday, 11 August 2013
Onwards and Upwards?
So first things first a bit of an apology in not posting sooner but things have been very very busy. This is mainly because Emily and I are moving flats! More on that latter. But there are other things to update about first.
Academics
I got my makes back for the essays, and I have passed them all. And as for some of them the essay was 100% of the mark this means I have passed the 3rd year and am now a 4th year rabbinic student which feels insane. How has it happened so quickly. My marks were far from stella, but I find that I am increasingly unconcerned with what grade a particular essay, or indeed model receives. A pass is a pass is pass. And I am much much more concerned about actually learning practical skills of the rabbinate. I know that I have been saying this for sometime and that because of the shear number of assessments I had I had taken the decision that all I got do is pass the essays, nevertheless in times gone by I would have been sad (although only a little and not for long) about my marks. This time I was completely satisfied to have passed.
As always the comments were nicer than the marks might have suggested that they were going to be.
Basically I had three groups some in the low 50s, and another in the mid/high 50s and then one out lier at 67%. (50% was the passmark).
This brings me to practical stuff. I have made contact with Eastbourne (where I am doing my High Holy Days) and things are progressing okay there. They seem like a really nice community and I am confident that all will go well there, although there is of course still much work to be done.
I am also really looking forward to my 4th year placement which is going to take place Kingston Liberal Synagogue. I think that this is going to be a great experience, and one which I hope will benefit both me and the community.
The project for Limmud is still progressing and I think is actually going to be really good when its done. As its on prayer when I get to see a final copy I may well send it to Shelly as I think it will interest him. But it needs to be finished before that, there is still a lot to do but I am happy with it and with how things are going.
I still don't know all that much about the shape of my fourth year but as my move and the HHDs are between me and it I am not overly concerned. And any way Que Sera, Sera.
Now the move. Currently almost all my and Emily's stuff is in boxes, oh so many boxes. We have found a lovely flat much nearer the college, near our favourite pub, the tube, the shops. Everywhere really. Moving is stressful we are doing okay but there is so much more to do. Will post more about flats and moving in future posts. But happy about it. :)
Emily and I have continued our eat well and exercise campaign and I am feeling a lot better/healthier for it. I have also been taking the chance to catch up with friends.
About all that is happening apart from that is I have started working with a Rabbi/speach therapist on my Hebrew reading, about which I am hopeful.
So I think that this must count as the last post of my third year. Upshot things are changing (largely for the better) and I am now a 4th year.
So what do I want from the 4th year? Learn as much as I can from my placement and HHDs. Go to Limmud (I am still thinking about what to do there), try and go to the Liberal and Reform bianneals. Improve my Hebrew and all round skills/knowledge.
692 days to go and counting.
Academics
I got my makes back for the essays, and I have passed them all. And as for some of them the essay was 100% of the mark this means I have passed the 3rd year and am now a 4th year rabbinic student which feels insane. How has it happened so quickly. My marks were far from stella, but I find that I am increasingly unconcerned with what grade a particular essay, or indeed model receives. A pass is a pass is pass. And I am much much more concerned about actually learning practical skills of the rabbinate. I know that I have been saying this for sometime and that because of the shear number of assessments I had I had taken the decision that all I got do is pass the essays, nevertheless in times gone by I would have been sad (although only a little and not for long) about my marks. This time I was completely satisfied to have passed.
As always the comments were nicer than the marks might have suggested that they were going to be.
Basically I had three groups some in the low 50s, and another in the mid/high 50s and then one out lier at 67%. (50% was the passmark).
This brings me to practical stuff. I have made contact with Eastbourne (where I am doing my High Holy Days) and things are progressing okay there. They seem like a really nice community and I am confident that all will go well there, although there is of course still much work to be done.
I am also really looking forward to my 4th year placement which is going to take place Kingston Liberal Synagogue. I think that this is going to be a great experience, and one which I hope will benefit both me and the community.
The project for Limmud is still progressing and I think is actually going to be really good when its done. As its on prayer when I get to see a final copy I may well send it to Shelly as I think it will interest him. But it needs to be finished before that, there is still a lot to do but I am happy with it and with how things are going.
I still don't know all that much about the shape of my fourth year but as my move and the HHDs are between me and it I am not overly concerned. And any way Que Sera, Sera.
Now the move. Currently almost all my and Emily's stuff is in boxes, oh so many boxes. We have found a lovely flat much nearer the college, near our favourite pub, the tube, the shops. Everywhere really. Moving is stressful we are doing okay but there is so much more to do. Will post more about flats and moving in future posts. But happy about it. :)
Emily and I have continued our eat well and exercise campaign and I am feeling a lot better/healthier for it. I have also been taking the chance to catch up with friends.
About all that is happening apart from that is I have started working with a Rabbi/speach therapist on my Hebrew reading, about which I am hopeful.
So I think that this must count as the last post of my third year. Upshot things are changing (largely for the better) and I am now a 4th year.
So what do I want from the 4th year? Learn as much as I can from my placement and HHDs. Go to Limmud (I am still thinking about what to do there), try and go to the Liberal and Reform bianneals. Improve my Hebrew and all round skills/knowledge.
692 days to go and counting.
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Catching up
So I am spending my summer catching up on stuff. Fun. Although I did find time for a week back home in Stoke. At the start of the summer my list of things too catch up on had about 20 things on it. But now its down to just a handful. And most of them are looking forward so meeting with my community for next year, getting ready for the High Holy Days. That kind of thing.
Today I had a review meeting about Jewish Care which I think was productive. And with it I think I have completed the last formal activity of my third year although I still don't know for sure that I've passed all my assessments.
The day before I had my meeting with Richard my rabbinic tutor, I am pretty happy with how it went and with the progress that could be seen at it.
I am also working away on the project for Limmud. But that is also going well.
I have taken the opportunity of catching up with some of my friends, whom I had been rather neglecting over the past few weeks.
All in all things are good. (Bring on the 4th year [assuming I've passed all my assessments that is])
Today I had a review meeting about Jewish Care which I think was productive. And with it I think I have completed the last formal activity of my third year although I still don't know for sure that I've passed all my assessments.
The day before I had my meeting with Richard my rabbinic tutor, I am pretty happy with how it went and with the progress that could be seen at it.
I am also working away on the project for Limmud. But that is also going well.
I have taken the opportunity of catching up with some of my friends, whom I had been rather neglecting over the past few weeks.
All in all things are good. (Bring on the 4th year [assuming I've passed all my assessments that is])
Monday, 15 July 2013
MRJ music conference
I have just attended the Reform Movement's music conference which was truly amazing. So good teachers including our own Zoe Jacobs, I went to a couple of standout sessions including some on story-telling Torah translation, by Shira Klien this was really inspirational I got an insight into the potential possibilities of Torah reading and translation in a synagogue services. Also, after only three years at rabbinical college I finally understand at least in part what Targum was about. Just for that alone it would have been enough to attend the conference but there was so much more. Communal singing, which by the end even I was joining in. I got to meet up with old friends from various synagogues.
Another excellent session, also by Shira Klien, was on teaching very young children (this was among the most useful/best sessions I have ever been too). Yet another stand out of the four days was the session on training games by Craig Taubman, the final concert was also almost unbelievably AMAZING. The only draw back from the whole thing was that it was simply too hot, about 30 degrees C., so way too hot for me.
I still have a bunch of stuff to do, but am finding to rest up a little before the fourth year starts. Including of course doing all the readings I having been putting off. Generally I am happy and feeling content with how things are going.
There are times when I have let my Jewish batteries go completely flat, and worse I don't notice that it has happened until they are recharged. And this four days really did that.
Another excellent session, also by Shira Klien, was on teaching very young children (this was among the most useful/best sessions I have ever been too). Yet another stand out of the four days was the session on training games by Craig Taubman, the final concert was also almost unbelievably AMAZING. The only draw back from the whole thing was that it was simply too hot, about 30 degrees C., so way too hot for me.
I still have a bunch of stuff to do, but am finding to rest up a little before the fourth year starts. Including of course doing all the readings I having been putting off. Generally I am happy and feeling content with how things are going.
There are times when I have let my Jewish batteries go completely flat, and worse I don't notice that it has happened until they are recharged. And this four days really did that.
Monday, 8 July 2013
Ordination service.
Yesterday was the ordination service for Leah, Benji and Esther. It was unsurprisingly very moving. But more about that latter. Before Sunday came Saturday (unsurprisingly enough) I didn't go anywhere for Shabbat morning I had been planning to go to Kol Chai with Emily but in the event Emily was really unwell so we didn't go anywhere. Friday night I went to New North London Masorti Synagogue.
I always enjoy the service there, partly because I get just to be an ordinary congregant. But the similarities with Shira Hadasha in Jerusalem and the almost Jerusalem like weather made me very homesick.
Saturday we went to celebrate Hannah's birthday with a murder mystery, 'death by chocolate' I played Dr Sigmand Fraud, it was a lot of fun. A really fun evening.
I have also started an eat well campaign this was the result of Emily and I realising how badly we have been eating. This was both shocking and might explain how ill we have been feeling of late. But now on to ordination.
This year ordination took place at Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue. Hannah was kind enough to give Emily and I lift in, which made a real difference because of how difficult it is to get by means of public transport.
This is the third ordination I have attended since starting at rabbinical school one was at HUC and then last year at West London Synagogue. I found this year very moving, the speeches by the ordains were very good. Leah's was a re-aprassal of her one at the last service. Linking her Bat-Mitzvah portion (Mattot-this weeks sedra) with her journey from the midwest and Classical Reform Judaism today, Benji's was also personal starting from his tenancy to leave planning routes and suddenly finding himself at a destination with his journey to the rabbinate, and Esther linked her complex and challenging Journey to her family history.
All three discussed the feelings and trepidation's of embraking on the next part their carers. Laliv gave the address which was prefect in tone and personal to each of the three canidates. All in all a lovely ceremony. In beautiful weather.
I always enjoy the service there, partly because I get just to be an ordinary congregant. But the similarities with Shira Hadasha in Jerusalem and the almost Jerusalem like weather made me very homesick.
Saturday we went to celebrate Hannah's birthday with a murder mystery, 'death by chocolate' I played Dr Sigmand Fraud, it was a lot of fun. A really fun evening.
I have also started an eat well campaign this was the result of Emily and I realising how badly we have been eating. This was both shocking and might explain how ill we have been feeling of late. But now on to ordination.
This year ordination took place at Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue. Hannah was kind enough to give Emily and I lift in, which made a real difference because of how difficult it is to get by means of public transport.
This is the third ordination I have attended since starting at rabbinical school one was at HUC and then last year at West London Synagogue. I found this year very moving, the speeches by the ordains were very good. Leah's was a re-aprassal of her one at the last service. Linking her Bat-Mitzvah portion (Mattot-this weeks sedra) with her journey from the midwest and Classical Reform Judaism today, Benji's was also personal starting from his tenancy to leave planning routes and suddenly finding himself at a destination with his journey to the rabbinate, and Esther linked her complex and challenging Journey to her family history.
All three discussed the feelings and trepidation's of embraking on the next part their carers. Laliv gave the address which was prefect in tone and personal to each of the three canidates. All in all a lovely ceremony. In beautiful weather.
Friday, 5 July 2013
last service of the year
Yesterday was the last service of the year here at Leo Baeck College, which was really lovely. Esther H., lead the first part of the service with guitar and singing, Benji, led a other parts of the service in a pleasant nuisa, he also layined the Torah reading, and Leah gave a really great D'var Torah, which really captured the right tone and mode for the occasion.
This was followed by the presentation of Talliot, again very beautiful. Dava participated in Taliting Esther, as did Banji for Leah along with her Dad and Leah helped to Tallit Benji. I was actually in tears by the end because it was so very moving.
After the service I chilled out in the Blue room before going for lunch with some of the first years: Hannah, Kath, Naomi, and Robyn we went to the Pizza place near the college. This was very nice as I don't normally get a chance to hang out with either Naomi or Robyn.
Back at the college I chilled again for a few minutes talking with Leah, before taking Emily's guitar back to the flat.
Latter I went to Tesco to buy some goods for dinner. Emily and I are having a campain of correct-eating. As we think how bad we are feeling is down to not eating enough protein and or fruit and veggies. It has only been going a day (All of yesterday, three meals. Fruit and veggies, and proper protein.) And a proper breakfast this morning.
I still have a lot on, I think that this is going to be fairly smooth sailing.
This was followed by the presentation of Talliot, again very beautiful. Dava participated in Taliting Esther, as did Banji for Leah along with her Dad and Leah helped to Tallit Benji. I was actually in tears by the end because it was so very moving.
After the service I chilled out in the Blue room before going for lunch with some of the first years: Hannah, Kath, Naomi, and Robyn we went to the Pizza place near the college. This was very nice as I don't normally get a chance to hang out with either Naomi or Robyn.
Back at the college I chilled again for a few minutes talking with Leah, before taking Emily's guitar back to the flat.
Latter I went to Tesco to buy some goods for dinner. Emily and I are having a campain of correct-eating. As we think how bad we are feeling is down to not eating enough protein and or fruit and veggies. It has only been going a day (All of yesterday, three meals. Fruit and veggies, and proper protein.) And a proper breakfast this morning.
I still have a lot on, I think that this is going to be fairly smooth sailing.
Monday, 1 July 2013
A very busy shabbat.
This weekend proved very busy pleasant but busy nevertheless. On Saturday morning we (Emily and I) went to Kol Hai Synagogue where Emily will be working. Its Michael Hilton's synagogue so that was nice, we then went to Michael's home for lunch although it was rather rushed because I needed to get to West Central Synagogue to lead services there.
I really enjoyed that, although I was very very tired. But they are a lovely community. As well as leading the services, I read Torah and gave a sermon. See blow.
On Sunday we went for a picnic with Matthew in Hendon, very nice enjoying the sunshine even if there were too many ticks.
Sermon (more or less what I said although I did add-lib somewhat)
I really enjoyed that, although I was very very tired. But they are a lovely community. As well as leading the services, I read Torah and gave a sermon. See blow.
On Sunday we went for a picnic with Matthew in Hendon, very nice enjoying the sunshine even if there were too many ticks.
Sermon (more or less what I said although I did add-lib somewhat)
וַתִּקְרַבְנָה
בְּנוֹת צְלָפְחָד,
בֶּן-חֵפֶר
בֶּן-גִּלְעָד
בֶּן-מָכִיר
בֶּן-מְנַשֶּׁה,
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹת,
מְנַשֶּׁה
בֶן-יוֹסֵף;
וְאֵלֶּה,
שְׁמוֹת
בְּנֹתָיו--מַחְלָה
נֹעָה,
וְחָגְלָה
וּמִלְכָּה וְתִרְצָה.
One of my first
Hebrew teachers said that one of the main differences between Hebrew
and English is that English is broad language whereas Hebrew is a
deep one. English has spread widely around the world and wherever it
has gone it has brought back words from other languages and made them
its own. The result has been that for almost any meaning there is a
word, and that perhaps English is best suited of all languages to
indicated and to distinguish between fine shades of nuisance.
Hebrew on the other
hand builds internal connection between concepts, individual words
connect with other words and ideas interact with related but
otherwise different concepts, Hebrew words also have multiple
meanings, for example D'var which means both word and thing.
The Hebrew term for
an offering or sacrifice Korban
contains the kernel of the idea of proximity or closeness, because it
is derived from the root Quf,
bet, resh.
The basic meaning of which means to come-close.
The
first word of the passage of Torah which we read today was also
derived from this basic root. Va-tik-rav-nah. And they (the
Daughters of Zelophehad) approached.
Please
forgive me, but I am going to talk about grammar but don't worry not
for very long, this word is in the third person feminine plural
imperfect. An unusual form and one that when I encounter it
sometimes catches me out. Simply because it is so unusual.
This
is because Hebrew is different from English in another way, in that
it is a gendered language. However, even if there were a group of
999 women and just one man, then the form the verb would take would
be masculine. So encountering feminine plural verbs, and therefore
all female action, is uncommon.
But
in todays reading we find just that the daughters of Zelophanad. But
not only that, we get to hear them speak, two whole verses of the
Torah reading are given over to their request which was more a
bitting critic of the system of inheritance in operation during the
time of the wondering of the Israelites in the wilderness.
What
is more, their request and critic is validated and confirmed not only
by Moses, but rather the Eternal One.
If
this were not enough to draw our attention to this strange and short
section of Torah, we are told the names of all five of the
daughters of Zelophehad, as well as Zelophehad's full ancestry. I
needs to be stressed that the nature of the style of torah is to be
very sparing with words, hardly a single word is wasted.
In
this context it is surprising, actually very surprising, to find this
much narrative detail about a seemingly trivial issue. After all
probate is not that exciting.
Apologies
to any probate lawyers who are present in the congregation.
This
can only be to attract our attention. For the Torah women's rights in
the area of inheritance was important. Indeed Judaism has had a long
history of being at the cutting edge of women's rights.
The
female Judaean had freedoms that her Athenian counterpart could only
dream off. Latter the same held true for women classical rabbinic
period and the Romain world.
This
is a tradition which is happily continued by the progressive
movements. From the ordination of Regina Jonas in 1935, though the
publication of Siddurim written in gender inclusive language
and in Israel with the work of IRAC and women of the wall.
It
is especially fitting, and yes poignant to read a passage of Torah
focused on the inclusion of women in the synagogue founded by Lily
Montague for the benefit of, largely female shop workers.
Just
as, according to the Torah, the daughters of Zelophehad noticed lack
in provisions for women and acted to change it, so too many
generations latter did Lily Montague.
There
is still, plenty of, work to be done in terms of inclusion both
within the Jewish world and externally too it. But reviewing our
history we can find the necessary courage and impetuous for action.
Ken
Yehi Ratzon
Thursday, 27 June 2013
End of Kol Bo.
Kol Bo has ended and with it my third year, so although not yet a four year I am no longer a third year. But am rather in that wired between space. Kol Bo was interesting largely on Illistrated Haggadot (The Golden, the Birds Head, and the Rylands). But we were really looking more generally at what can be learnt about art and the world(s) from which it came simply by looking.
Very interesting but I was very tired during it, just because it comes at the end of a very very long semester.
I have been making good progress with the Limmud Project, although there is still quite a bit to do. And on Saturday I am off to WCS to lead services, read Torah and to preach. (I always like going to WCLS they are such a lovely community.)
Jobs left over from the 3rd. A) Meeting about JC-Norwood (should get on that one soon), B) Contact RHF (also better sooner rather than latter), C) contact and set up a meeting with RJ (nothing serious so no real pressure there).
Looking forward I need to sort out what is happening with the High Holy Days in more detail and be more pressing on my 4th year placement.
Next week there is the HHD practicum at LBC not sure how much of it I'll be going to although as gabi I'll be going in for services (and will probably go and work in the library there after). And then that really is it.
I will be very glad to get a brake from college as I really feel that I need it.
Very interesting but I was very tired during it, just because it comes at the end of a very very long semester.
I have been making good progress with the Limmud Project, although there is still quite a bit to do. And on Saturday I am off to WCS to lead services, read Torah and to preach. (I always like going to WCLS they are such a lovely community.)
Jobs left over from the 3rd. A) Meeting about JC-Norwood (should get on that one soon), B) Contact RHF (also better sooner rather than latter), C) contact and set up a meeting with RJ (nothing serious so no real pressure there).
Looking forward I need to sort out what is happening with the High Holy Days in more detail and be more pressing on my 4th year placement.
Next week there is the HHD practicum at LBC not sure how much of it I'll be going to although as gabi I'll be going in for services (and will probably go and work in the library there after). And then that really is it.
I will be very glad to get a brake from college as I really feel that I need it.
Monday, 24 June 2013
Kol Bo and Sermon
Today was the first day of Kol Bo, which looks like it is going to be very interesting this year. Kol Bo started with a morning service lead by Rene, Emily read Torah and I gave a d'var Torah. (See Below). I also feel that I am making good progress with the project for Limmud so all in all. Things are going well.
Good Morning. (Smile and pause)
Max Weber, the
eminent German sociologist, once suggested that there were three
forms of authority: Legal (which is based on either on a system of
bureaucracy or a standardised set of normative laws), Traditional
(which is based on custom-or the principle that 'this is the person
who has always held authority'), and Charismatic (which depends on
the characteristics of the individual and the demands of the moment).
It
is possible to identify each of these three types of authority within
the structure of ancient Israelite society. The traditional authority
of the heads of houses, and the kings. The Legal authority of
officers and advisors for example those appointed by Moses, and of
course the charismatic authority of the Prophets and Judges.
But the nature of
authority and leadership are still a topic of scholastic (and indeed
popular) research. Walk into any bookshop and you are likely to find
shelves and shelves of books on the topic of leadership, and a
summation of this week's Paraha, Parasha Pinchas, could be 'authority
and leadership'.
Because leadership
is a major focus of this Parasha. From the dealing with the
consequences of Pinchas' dynamic and deceive actions during a moment
of potential political crisis impaling Zimri and Cozbi (this dramatic
incident actually concluded last week's Parash.)
The motif of
leadership continues with Moses' considered application of a legal
frame-work to a new situation in response to the request brought to
him by the Daughters of Zelophehad, and parasha concludes with
Moses handing on authority and leadership to Joshua.
This Parasha really
is concerned with and focused on leadership. In its many forms and in
its different styles.
But in describing
the investment of Joshua the Torah uses the verb, VaYis-M'ch.
From which the word Semicha (rabbinic ordination) is taken.
The Rabbis of the classical period, and indeed latter, wanted to link
their forms and style of leadership with those that had operated in
the Biblical period.
But the challenges
of Jewish life have continued to evolve as has the types of
leadership necessary to meet these challenges.
(pause)
Leo Baeck College,
has been providing leadership and leaders for the progressive Jewish
community not just in Britain but across the world for almost 60
years.
But just as the
leadership of Moses and then of Joshua would not have been possible
without the active support of other leaders within the community, so
too the college relies upon the support, in many different forms from
the members of the wider progressive community.
In the modern world,
work place and indeed rabbinate, leadership is often separated from
authority, in a way which Weber would almost certainly have found
compelling.
But with the help of
the College, aided and supported by the members of the progressive
community, I am certain that the current generation of students can
follow in the footsteps of the current rabbis, and those who came
before, and meet and even more than meet the challenges of providing
the necessary leadership in partnership with the broader membership
of the progressive and wider Jewish community.
Ken Yehi Ratzon.
Saturday, 22 June 2013
MA Bibliography (and a short posting)
This is going to be a rather odd posting, as mostly its going to be a bibliography. But first yesterday was a nice day it had a really Shabbat like feeling, kind of like being back in Jlem. Partly this may have simply been down to the weather which was kind of like Israel very warm and muggy. But it was also that on my walk to synagogue, and just by chance the people I met where on their way to synagogue as well. So it was nice to exchange greetings of 'Shabbat Shalom', even as I left the flat I hadn't decided which shul I was going to. In the end I opted for FPS. It was a really nice services and I got to have a very pleasant chat with Kathy who was there as well. Its been ages since we have run into each other.
Then it was back to the flat for a meal I'd cooked, I really must get back into the habit of cooking more. The next day I went back to FPS, Rene was leading and again it was a very pleasant service.
Next week we have Kol Bo., and I still have one or two big things on but apart from that I am so much less busy than I was until recently.
This brings me to the bibliography. I have updated my MA bibliography which was entitled, "Incest in the Ancestry of David: A Combined reading of Genesis 19, Genesis 38 and the Book of Ruth''.
I think that its a pretty good thesis and the bibliography is I think useful to others researching in this area so I wanted to put it on line and via my blog seemed like the easiest way of so doing.
Then it was back to the flat for a meal I'd cooked, I really must get back into the habit of cooking more. The next day I went back to FPS, Rene was leading and again it was a very pleasant service.
Next week we have Kol Bo., and I still have one or two big things on but apart from that I am so much less busy than I was until recently.
This brings me to the bibliography. I have updated my MA bibliography which was entitled, "Incest in the Ancestry of David: A Combined reading of Genesis 19, Genesis 38 and the Book of Ruth''.
I think that its a pretty good thesis and the bibliography is I think useful to others researching in this area so I wanted to put it on line and via my blog seemed like the easiest way of so doing.
Alexander, T., Desmond. ''Lot's
Hospitality: A Clue to His Righteousness'' Journal of Biblical
Literature (1985) Volume 104:2
289-291.
Alter, Robert The Art of Biblical
Narrative. New York: Basic
Books, 1981
Anderson,
A., Arnold. ''The Marriage of Ruth.'' Journal of Semitic
Studies (1978) 22
171-183.
Astour,
C, Michael. ''Tamar the Hierodule an Essay in the Method of
Vestigial Motifs.'' Journal of Biblical Literature (1966)
85:192-196.
Arbeitman,
L., Yoel. ''Tamar's Name or is it?'' Zeitschrift fur die
altterstamentilche Wissenschaft
(2000) 112 Number 3 341-355.
Barker,
R. James Women's rights in the Old Testament times. Salt
Lake City: Signature Books, 1992.
Bergson,
Henri. La rire: Essai sur la Signification du Comique
Paris: Presses Universitaires de
France, 1900.
Brenner,
Athalya. ''Naomi and Ruth'' Vetus Testamentum
(1983) 33 Number 4 385-397.
-''On
the semantic field of humour, laughter and the comic in the Old
Testament: On Humour and Comedy in the Hebrew Bible''.
Journal for the study of the Old Testament Supplement
Series 92. (1990).
-Ed.
''Are we Amused? Humour about women in Biblical Worlds'' Journal
for the study of the Old Testament Supplement Series 383.
(2003).
Brown,
F., Driver, S., R., and Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon
Peabody Ma: Hendrickson
Publishing, 1979.
Brooks,
A., Beatrice. ''Fertility Cult functionaries in Old Testament''
Journal of Biblical Literature 60:
227-253 (1941)
Bush,
W., Fredrick Word Biblical Commentary Number 9: Ruth and
Ester. Dallas: Word Books
Publishing, 1996.
Campbell,
F., Edward The Anchor Bible: Ruth. Garden
City NY: Doubleday and Company, 1975.
Childs
S., Brevard Introduction to the Old Testament as Scripture
London: SCM Press, 1979.
Eissfeldt,
Otto. Hexateuch-Synopse Leipzig,
1922.
Emertonn,
J., Adney. ''Some Problems in Genesis XXXVIII. Vetus
Testamentum (1975) Number 25
338-361.
- ''An Examination of recent structuralist interpretation of Genesis XXXVIII'' Vetus Testamentum (1976) Number 26 79-98.
- ''Judah and Tamar'' Vetus Testamentum (1979) Number 29 403-415.
Fish,
Harold. ''Ruth and the Structure of Covenant History'' Vetus
Testamentum Number 32 423-437.
Fuchs,
Esther ''Sexual Politics in the Biblical Narrative'' Journal
for the Study of the Old Testament Supplement Series 310,
(2000).
Golder, C., M.
''Genesis 38 in the Context of the Joseph Story'' Ph.D diss. The
University of
Manchester. 1985.
Goldin, Judah.
''The Youngest Son or Where Does Genesis 38 Belong'' Journal of
Biblical Literature (1977) Volume 96:1 27-44.
Hall,
Sarah. ''Tamar, a polemic on Tamar? An intertextual discussion of
the Juxtaposition between male and female comprehensions of the
rules of relationships within 2nd
Samuel 13 and Genesis 38 narratives'' MA. Diss. The University of
Manchester, 2000.
Hamilton,
P., Victor. The Book of Genesis (Chapters 18-50). New
International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids:
William B. Eerdmans Publishing.
Hubbard,
L., Robert Jr. Ruth New
International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids:
William B. Eerdmans Publishing.
Huddelstun,
R., John. ''Unveiling the version: the tactics of Tamar in Tamar in
Genesis 38:15'' Journal of Hebrew Studies (2001)Volume
3 325-343.
Ho Y.,
S., Graig ''The Stories of the Family Troubles of Judah and David: A
Study of Their Literary Links'' Vetus Testamentum Volume
49:4 514-531
Jackson,
Melissa. ''Lot's Daughters and Tamar as Tricksters and the
Patriarchal Narratives as Feminist Theology'' Journal for
the Study of the Old Testament
(2002) Number 98 29-46.
Kim,
Dohyung ''The Structure of Genesis 38: A Thematic Reading'' Vetus
Testamentum (2012) Number 62
550-560.
Lasine,
Stuart. ''Guest and Host in Judges 19: Lot's Hospitality in an
inverted World'' Journal for the Study of the Old
Testament. (1984) Number 29
37-59.
Leach,
Edmund and Alan D, Aycock Structuralist Interpretation of
Biblical Myth. Cambridge:
Cambridge University Press, 1983.
Malamat,
Abraham. ''Naamah, the Ammonite princess, King Solomon's Wife''
Revue Biblique 106
35-40.
Mars, Leonard.
''What was Onan's Crime'' Comparative Studies in Society and
History (1984) Volume 26:3 429-439.
Morschauser,
Scott ''Hospitality, Hostilities, and Hostages: On the Legal
Background to Genesis 19:1-9'' Journal for the Study of
the Old Testament (2003), Number
27 461-485.
Myers,
J., Martin. The Linguistic and Literary form of the Book
of Ruth Leiden: Brill, 1955.
Niditch
Susan ''The Wronged Woman Righted: An analysis of Genesis 38'' The
Harvard Theological Review (1979)
Number 1-2 143-149.
Noble,
R., Paul ''Esau, Tamar and Joseph: Criteria for Identifying
Inner-Biblical Allusions'' Vetus Testamentum (2002)Number
52:4 219-252.
Rendsburg,
A., Gary ''David and His Circle in Gensis XXXVIII'' Vetus
Testamentum (1986)
Number 36 438-446.
Schungel-Straumar,
Helen. ''Judah and Tamar'', in Great Couples of the Bible
Soelle, Dorothee and Katharina Elliger., eds., Augsburg: Fortress
Publishing, 2006.
Sharon,
M., Diane ''Some Results of a Structural Semiotic Analysis of the
Story of Judah and Tamar '' Journal for the Study of the
Old Testament (2005) Volume 29:3
289-318.
Soggin, J.,
Alberto. ''Judah and Tamar (Genesis 38)'' Of Prophets' Visions
McKay, A., Heather and David, J., Clines eds., Journal for the
Study of the Old Testament Supplementary Series.
Tonson,
Paul. ''Mercy without Covenant: a Literary Analysis of Genesis 19''
Journal for the Study of the Old Testament Number
95 95-116.
Trible,
Phyllis. Text
of Terror Literary-Feminist Readings of Biblical Narrative:
Overturnes to Biblical Theology 13
Philadelphia: Fortress Press.
Vesco,
Jean-Luc. ''La Date du Liver du Ruth'' Revue
Biblique (1967)
Number 74 235-247.
West,
A., Struat. ''Judah and Tamar: A scriptural enigma'' Dor
le Dor (1984)
12:4 246-252.
Wolde
Van, J., Ellen Ruth
and Naomi London:
SCM Press, 1997.
-''Texts in Dialogue with Texts: Intertextuality in Ruth and Tamar
Narratives.'' Biblical Interpretatio: A Journal of Contemporary
Approaches (1997) Volume 5:1 1-28.
Wenham,
J., Gordon Word
Biblical Commentary 2 Genesis 16-50
Nashvile: Nelson Publishing, 1994.
Westenholz,
G., Joan ''Tamar, Qedesa, and Qadistu and Sacred Prostitution in
Mesopotamia'' Havard Theological Review (1989) Volume 82:3 245-266.
Whedbee,
J., William The
Bible and the Comic Vision Cambridge:
Cambridge University Press, 1989.
Wilson,
R., Robert ''The Old Testament Genealogies in Recent Research''
Journal of Biblical Literature Number
94 169-189.
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