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I’ve always had a problem with rules. As a kid, I often found myself attempting to convince people in positions of authority to allow me to do something even though it was prohibited for everyone else. Rules seemed stifling and suffocating. Perhaps, then, it is poetic justice that I should become a rabbi, a spiritual leader of a faith that many claim is one of rules and laws. Indeed, we do have a lot of them. 

Yet, contrary to many rules I encountered in school or society, rules which I found arbitrary, I found the pursuit of Judaism liberating. Perhaps it is because of Judaism’s communal nature or its lack of vertical authority structures. Perhaps it is because the spirit and intention of the rules are to enable us to focus on what is important in life, to live a life of meaning aligned with our people’s greatest aspirations. 

Or, maybe it is because no two Jews ever agree on much of anything, the rules are open to much interpretation. Of course, danger can arise as we see in this week’s parshah, when Korach and his followers elevate themselves above the law and engage in open rebellion against Moses. With this as the ultimate cautionary tale, we must always strive to fashion a balance between personal autonomy and communal norms. 

Jewish law helps us find this balance by making us engage with the age-old values that have always animated Jewish life. I hope you will join us this Shabbat as we spend some time focusing on this critical area of the Jewish experience. Due to generous support from the Steven Eichel Jewish Law Library Endowment Fund, we are excited to have Rabbi Shai Cherry as our guest rabbi and scholar. An outstanding teacher, he is known for his ability to break down complicated ideas into easily digestible tidbits. Speaking from the bima during tomorrow evening’s Services, he will discuss the philosophy behind Jewish law and what it means to us in modern times. Leading an enhanced Torah study on Saturday morning, he will focus on Jewish law and the female experience, especially as it relates to marriage, divorce, abortion, and leadership. He will also be leading a fascinating Discussion on Jewish Mysticism immediately following services tomorrow evening. Don’t miss this intimate session over wine and cheese as we elevate our Shabbat experience with good conversation and great company.  

Summer has officially begun this week and far from being a season separated from learning, we affirm our Jewish commitment to this even now. Here’s to continued Jewish enrichment and personal growth. L’chayim!