April 2004

Passover

This month, we celebrate the holiday of Passover, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt. When our ancestors left Egypt, the Torah notes that they left with an "Erov Rav," a "Mixed Multitude." That is, many non-Israelites made the trek into the wilderness with them. Later, during Greco-Roman times, many people in the Mediterranean area converted to Judaism, while others became "God-fearers" who observed Jewish tradition without formal conversion. Different types of "sojourners" were described in our sources. I recently taught a selection from the Midrash (Mekhilta) which reminds us that love of the one who is different from you is the most oft-repeated mitzvah in the Torah.
Today, in an increasingly open society, we once again find that our Jewish communities welcome a diverse population. Congregation Beth Israel recognizes one category of membership which can include people of the Jewish faith, those married to a Jew and those who are raising Jewish children. Although non-Jewish members do not fulfill a few of the special religious requirements of Jews, in every other way they are participating equally in the life of our community. For those who choose to embrace Judaism and take upon themselves the "yoke of the commandments," we joyfully support, nurture, and encourage their growth and initiation into Judaism. For those who wish to remain supportive sojourners, helping to maintain Jewish homes and often making great efforts to raise Jewish children, we welcome and respect them. We appreciate how often they are energetic and devoted volunteers, giving selflessly of their time and support to our community. For people from the broader Chico community who want to come and experience Judaism or learn Torah, our doors are open, our attitude is welcoming. "Let all who are hungry come and eat," is the motto of the Passover Seder. This refers not only to physical nourishment, but to spiritual sustenance.
And among those in our congregation raised as Jews, we have people from many diverse backgrounds. How wonderful it is to have, for example, the varied contributions and perspectives of the Reform commitment to prophetic social justice, the Conservative love of tradition and recognition of historical development, the Orthodox dedication and discipline, the Reconstructionist creativity and emphasis on community, and much more, all in one community. Aren't we blessed? One person may know more Hebrew, one may be more dedicated to social action, one more involved with religious education, another may observe the mitzvah of tzedakah best. Let us learn from one another and revel in the many contributions and perspectives that our members bring to our community shul. The holiness of community allows us to complete one another.

In these difficult days for the Jewish people worldwide, it's more important than ever to emphasize Klal Yisrael, the unity of the Jewish people, Darkei Shalom, ways of peace with all humanity, and Ahavat HaGer, loving the one who is different than you who sojourns with you. Especially in a small community like our own, it's important to be tolerant, forgiving, appreciative of each person's unique contributions, and respectful of people's personal choices. Then we may reap the incredible blessings of community that are at the heart of our faith.

Chag Pesach Sameach, Happy Passover
Rabbi Julie Hilton Danan