Rabbi Ben-Gideon's Greeting

Rabbi Ben-Gideon blowing the shofar for first grade. Photo by Ryan Benson.

I have often been confronted by people who were trying to shock me by saying “I don’t believe in God!” My response, at first, was “me, too!” When they either looked at me quizzically or outright asked me what I meant, I would add, “At least during certain times in my life.” Then I would tell them about my own journey. I wanted to let them know that absolute faith is not a requirement of Judaism, but perhaps a goal.

For some of us, belief and faith are natural attributes of our souls, coming to us like walking and running come to others. However, for many of us, faith is much more difficult. We are filled with questions about our world, our Creator, and our responsibilities to each. Looking for answers to these questions is one of the vital pursuits we engage in here at Congregation Olam Tikvah. 

Jewish tradition teaches that it is better to engage in study with a partner, or hevruta, than to study alone. This precept is held to be true even when one is very knowledgeable and the other is quite ignorant. Those of us with less knowledge can have much wisdom, and those of us with great knowledge can be unwise in how to apply it; thus we each bring a unique perspective which may enlighten others.

In addition, there is strength in numbers. Sometimes we might find inspiration in an answer we hear; other times we might find comfort in a shared question. By coming together in community, each of us aids the other in the pursuit of the Divine, because our strength, endurance and wisdom are increased by joining together in these holy tasks.

Looking forward to learning from you and with you,

Shalom,