July 22nd, 2009
In traditional Judaism and many other cultures, the Moon represents the feminine element while the Sun represents the Masculine. We are told that the Moon and Sun were equal at the time of creation; however the Moon recognized difficulties and asked if two could both wear a crown. HaShem told her that she should go and make herself small. This is seen as a sign of imperfection in the world that is only temporarily needed. In fact, monthly at the new moon, Jews pray for the rectification of the moon. G-d also asked the Jewish people to bring a sacrifice “For G-d” for creating the flaw in the moon.
The Jewish people are related to the moon. Months are gauged by the moon, marriages and family life are regulated by women’s cycles that are also likened to the moon and Jews are seen as a small nation, related to the moon. In an eclipse, the moon rules over the sun. It is a unique opportunity for recognizing the sacrifices of the female principle. A good time to pray for women.
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Tags: jewish tradition, women
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May 13th, 2009
The centrality of the feminine aspect in developing, actualising and perfecting creation is evident even in the opening passages of the Torah. The Hebrew language abounds with hints as to the importance of the feminine. The word for Creation (briyah) is its self in the feminine tense. Torah and Shechina (G-d’s indwelling presence) are both feminine. All of the items of service in the Holy Temple are either feminine forms or become feminine in their plural (shulchan/shulchanot, aron/aronot). As a part of the manifestation of the feminine in creation, we are required for our own development to explore what HaShem is telling us about the feminine. We are talking a bit one sided. examining mainly the feminine. But, after all that is our side to fulfill.
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Tags: Add new tag, jewish tradition
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May 6th, 2009
(As printed in Zachor Zot LÝaakov by HaRav Moishe Cohen)
Do you remember a pause in the wedding ceremony between the Groom giving Bride the ring and breaking the glass? It wasn’t just an excellent photo opportunity, the Ketubah (Marriage Agreement) was being read.
If you’re like most folks, you haven’t chatted in Aramaic lately, making the Ketubah reading hard to follow. If you have an English translation the wording sounds very sweet but the meaning seems obscure.
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Tags: jewish tradition, judaism
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