At the Mountain
Dear Friends,
This week we remember
standing together at the foot of Mt. Sinai:
Rising before dawn
we moved toward the mountain together.
Thunder and lightning filled the sky.
A thick cloud descended.
From far off a shofar wailed.
Trembling, we took our places at the mountain.
The shofar grew louder.
Flames descended.
Smoke rose.
The whole mountain began to quake.
And then there was stillness
and absolute silence.
And in that silence
all creation went back to the One.
There was no distinction, no other,
there was only One.
Only One.
Then the flames returned.
The smoke appeared,
and we were back at the mountain.
What would help us remember
that beyond all distinction,
beyond the experience of separation
is a Oneness to which we all belong?
What would help us remember
that we are here in relationship with all beings,
and our words and actions must be for the benefit of all?
We heard the Life Force say:
1. I, the Infinite Unfolding of All, am the force of transformation and liberation.
2. Do not give yourself to false gods. Do not worship what you make with your own hands. Whatever you choose to worship will have consequences for generations to come.
3. Do not lift up my name for lies and deceit.
Do not use my essence to justify ruin and destruction.
4. Remember Shabbat and keep it holy.
Stop. Rest, so you can help create a world in which all beings have the privilege to pause and rest.
5. Honor your parents.
Honor the foundation from which you have grown.
Honor those upon whose shoulders you stand.
6. Do not murder.
7. Do not betray.
Honor each other’s vulnerabilities.
Have reverence for intimacy.
8. Do not steal.
9. Do not turn against your neighbor with words or deeds.
10. Do not be led astray by comparing yourself to others.
Do not get lost in desiring what others have.
Honor your gifts and offerings.
Exodus 20:1-14
In these days of trembling, may these calls from the Infinite give us strength and courage.
Love and Blessing,
Shalom,
Rabbi Yael