Blog

We are in the middle of a series of Torah portions that describe the construction and adornment of the Tabernacle, our portable temple used by the Israelites while making their way to the Promised Land. Many of the specifications still can be seen in a modern temple. In this week’s Torah portion in particular, we learn of the Eternal Light. What does it mean to be in the presence of light all the time? What does this important feature in our worship space stand for and remind us of? I am happy to share a poem written by a friend and colleague, Jonathan Goldstein of Dallas, Texas.

I am the light...
I am the light
The light always

I am the light that Aaron was commanded to light
I am to be for the Israelites for all ages
Day and night
Always on
For all time I am the guide
The beacon
The signal
If you see the me
The laws are close
Our story is safe

I am the light that witnessed our birth
the ups and the downs
Times of glory
The darker times of suffering and pain
I am the light that has been built then destroyed
and built again and again and again
And on into the wilderness
The barren lands
The people seeking refuge
Seeking friends and neighbors
Often finding only foe

I suppose I am scary to some people
Threatening maybe?
They don’t know that I am just a flame
I mean no harm I only wish to light the way
To show my people that their story is close by and safe...

I am the flame that Aaron lit and has burned ever since
Despite every royal crown or prince;
Showing the way to the Center
The laws abiding
Showing the way to our history
The Ancient One of Holiness mystery
My flame still lights the way
It will always stay
Lit Burning Guiding

The beacon of our people
I’ll leave the light on for you
Are you coming? I need you!
Do you need me?
Do you see me? Hineini...
I’m here like I have always been
Please come find me
I’ll leave the light on for you
Do you want me to wait up for you?
I’ll leave the light on for you
I am the light always

May the light in our sanctuary mirror the divine spark of light in our hearts-constant, bright and illuminating.

Shabbat shalom,

Beth