the

Mit

ATHERWOOD

Like the olah, the elevation offer-
ing described in Tzav, this ritual
imparts no physical pleasure or ben-
efit. The message of Parah is simply
that the mitzvot themselves are a
gift of love, even when we cannot

Torah liberates
by creating a
system of
boundaries.

understand what motivated God to
give them.
During these four weeks between
Purim and Pesach, we have many
historical reminders of those who
sought to destroy us, body and soul.
Haman and Pharaoh are followed by
Hitler and Saddam Hussein as we
reflect upon modern calamities as
well as ancient history. The message
of Tzav is that if we can dedicate
ourselves to a life of command-
ments, if we can bring our passion
and love to the fulfillment of God's
word, then our light shall burn
inexorably through the night until
the dawn of redemption. Then we
ourselves will become torch bearers
of love and justice, bringing great
peace to the world. ❑

Conversations

Which mitzvot are like the she-
lamim — whole offerings —
meant to be enjoyed by the
individual? Which of our ritu-
als are like the olah — burnt
offering — that are pure gifts
without expectation of plea-
sure? Do Jews spend too much
time remembering our ancient
suffering? Have we become
obsessive and thus distorted by
this prism of sorrow? Is it ever
valid to keep mitzvot just
because God says so, or are
such rituals empty of meaning?

Heatherwood Book Fair,
Bake Sale & Boutique

Scholastic Book Fair's display of books
from preschool to adult selections. All
available for purchase at great prices!

Receive a Heatherwood gift with purchase!

April 7th & 8th
from 1 1 :00 am 4:00 pm

Join us for the official opening of the
newly decorated library & card room.
Donate a book, video or board game
and receive lunch for only $2.00 and a
gift book tote bag!

www.thisisfederation.org/MIC

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