There’s a refrain in the Book of Deuteronomy in particular that speaks to the evolution from a nomadic mindset to a settled one. “In the place that the Eternal will choose” implies that there will be a sanctuary even beyond the wilderness mishkan that will be the center of Israelite worship. Of course, “worship” before the destruction of the Temples meant sacrifices, but we know that our people – others, as well – were maturing in their means of acknowledging their God/gods.
They had the two Jerusalem Temples back then, but as I said yesterday, the synagogue has become the most significant institution we’ve created. Rabbi Sidney Greenberg wrote about its importance, and I’d like to share that with you…
The synagogue provides the ideal Jewish setting for worship, where that which is noblest within ourselves reaches out toward that which is highest in the universe – God.
In a noisy world, it enables us to pause periodically to listen to the still, small voice of the spirit.
The synagogue provides a place of assembly for the Jewish community and for the many organizations for Jewish youth and adults. It is the recognized address of the Jewish community for Jew and non-Jew alike.
The synagogue is the institution that best preserves the Jewish heritage and most effectively transmits the teachings of the prophets, the wisdom of our sages and teachers.
The synagogue has been the most potent force for Jewish continuity throughout the vicissitudes of our history. It continues to nourish the Jewish will to survive and to provide joy in living as a Jew.
Rabbi Greenberg includes a quotation by Christian scholar, Robert T. Hereford, who wrote,
In all their long history, the Jewish people have done scarcely anything more wonderful
Than to create the synagogue. No human institution has a longer continuous history, and
None has done more for the uplifting of the human race.
As we ease into the season of contemplation, we should realize that despite the various opinions one has of synagogue life, its pros and cons, it is in the sanctuary that we find sanctuary. And while this year’s circumstances will not be conducive to the fullness of community we find in all other years, know that your synagogue, your sanctuary, is there, always waiting for the meditations of our hearts.
(Speaking of synagogues, Rabbi Grumbacher met Mr. and Mrs. Schleplowitz at a social event, learning quickly that they were not affiliated. “We just don’t believe in organized religion,” said Mrs. Schleplowitz. Rabbi Grumbacher responded, “You’d have nothing to be concerned about if you joined Beth El Congregation. We are the most disorganized congregation I’ve ever encountered!” Now, Beth El-ers, take nothing personally! It was a joke…)