With the leader of the Reform movement calling for individuals and congregations alike to reconsider the manner in which they observe Shabbat, this article in Haaretz caught my eye. The incredible technological inventiveness that allows traditionally observant Jews to keep Shabbat while still engaging in some of the luxuries of modern life [such as a freshly brewed cup of cappuccino] is awesome.
Yet for many liberal Jews, this seems oxymoronic--not the modernity per se, but the focus on strict observance of Shabbat restrictions without apparent restrictions (or perhaps a sense of being restricted). I have never found it troubling personally: if HaShem made His will clear, then all that matters is doing what HaShem specified. All of the rest is--at best--narishkeit or--at worst--a sin akin to that of Nadav and Avihu. Of course, this is dependent upon belief that HaShem made "His" will clear and that the traditional halakhic interpretative system is the only way to understand what God wants from the Jews.
As Reform Jews collectively engage anew in Shabbat observance, it is thus timely to focus on one's own theological and halakhic stance. Only by acknowledging our divergent ideologies/philosophies/theologies can we understand the radical divergence in our practices. Nonetheless, just as cappuccino-making haredi Jews celebrate Shabbat as best they can, so too should we all: as best as we can. A sweet Shabbat to you.
Re; "A Man's Title"
I agree fully with this forward looking article qnd vision and especially with the last parapgraph.
I have diffuculties now not to cringe at some of the actions of the budding 'Yigal Amirs' and those who are willfully blind to this growing manace.
Posted by: Judy Cohen | January 17, 2008 at 09:40 AM