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The saying: “Know Before Whom You Stand,” is a Jewish maxim that often appears above the Ark in synagogue sanctuaries. It is based on a phrase found in the Babylonian Talmud (Berakhot 28a) reminding us of the significance and the power of that place in which we find ourselves praying or existing. Ideally, this teaching brings with it a sensation of greater and profound connection, and peace.

Yesterday, the Temple Sinai Clergy had the opportunity to walk around Morehouse College with Lawrence Edward Carter, Dean of the campus. Dean Carter was recruited by Martin Luther King Jr. to attend the College many years ago. As he guided us through that storied campus, he shared intimate tales and secrets about the giants and pioneers who led the South during the Civil Rights Movement.

At one point in our tour, we stopped before a monument commemorating the lives of Benjamin Mays and Sadie Gray Mays. Benjamin Mays was a president of the College and a mentor to Martin Luther King. Mays' speeches impacted the lives of Morehouse Students and were instrumental in molding the Atlanta we live in today.

As I stood facing that monument, I knew exactly before whom I stood.

Under Benjamin’s name are the words: Born to rebel against ignorance, oppression, and social injustice. Under Sadie Gray’s name are the words: She had a special concern for the young, the aged, disadvantaged, the poor. She did what she could to help them.

In this moment of touring, I learned a little bit more about the incredible people who built this city. It reminded me to not only consider before whom I stand, but also upon whose shoulders I stand, and the kind of person I strive to be.

Particularly in this 50th year of Temple Sinai’s life, our trip to Morehouse served as a powerful reminder to ask the question: Before whom do we stand, and upon whose shoulders do we gaze out into the world? As we take a moment to pause this Shabbat, may we remember the people who have carried us to where we stand in this very moment.