“Let there be light!” Few phrases in the English language are as evocative. In our mind’s eyes we can see light sweeping across a horizon and removing darkness from the panorama before us. Before all began there was need for light, for energy, for caring. Light became synonymous with creation, hope and learning. Even today we speak of being illuminated by art, enlightened by thought and experiencing the gleam of understanding. It is no wonder that candle-lighting becomes significant in Jewish tradition; ushering in Jewish holidays and Shabbat, escorting Elijah out of our homes on Saturday evenings, affording us a glow of memory on occasions of loss and chasing away moments of darkness of mood and brooking a sense of hope for the future.
One would expect that all of us would be active in the kindling of lights. Indeed, in our modern world this is the case. Central to our ritual is the kindling of flames and we teach all of our children including our youngest to sing as we bring light into our homes. But, this week’s Torah reading, B-ha-alotecha, directs that Aaron approach the Menorah alone to kindle the 7 flames. No other individual is permitted to tend the light. In our day, flipping a switch and using our smartphone screens for quick illumination are mundane acts which serve our purposes of avoiding confusion and preventing a fall. Why does the regulation stress that only Aaron approach the Menorah?
Perhaps the goal of this mitzvah is to teach us that a mundane act can become a sacred act. Every routine deed bears the potential of being powerful and spiritual. By dressing the High Priest in splendid robes and prescribing a specific method for trimming wicks and adding oil, a trivial task is transformed into wonderment reflecting the first creative act. Mindfully lighting candles and losing ourselves in the dance of the flickering flames carries us to new heights of experience. It is no wonder that this week’s Torah reading is named B-ha-alo-techa( ‘In your going up to light'). The word ALIYAH is Hebraically within the opening word of this ritual. May we all ascend as we kindle our flames.
- By the way, tomorrow evening is Shabbat. Light flames in your home. Invite friends and relatives over for a candlelight toast. After lighting the candles, raise a glass wine and enjoy some time together. Shabbat is meant to be enjoyed.
- The blessing is Baruch atah Adonai eloheinu melech ha-olam asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav v-tzeevanu l’hadleek ner shel shabbat.
- ( Blessed are you ,Lord our God, ruler of the universe who has made us holy with the commandment of kindling the Shabbat flames.)
Baruch atah adonai eloheinu melech ha-olam boray pri hagafen. Blessed are you, Lord our God ruler of the universe who creates the fruit of the vine.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Steve Silberman
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