From The Rabbi’s Study… Shabbat May 30, 31, 2025/Sivan 3, 4, 5785 (Omer 47, 48)
Erev Shavuot will be starting on Sunday, June 1…Celebrating on Sunday the receiving of the Torah!
This Shabbat the Torah reading starts with the Book of Bamidbar/Numbers. The Hebrew meaning of Bamidbar is in the Wilderness. Beginning with G-d commanding Moses to take a census of the entire Israelite community, it continues with the arrangement of the Israelite camp and order of march. Also, the Levites and their duties.
While there are several censuses taken, this one shows the organization of the newly forming nation. One part identifies the individuals eligible to become the army, and how the tribes will protect themselves and the Holy Ark.
Numbers Rabbah 2:19 says that it was to demonstrate G-d’s love for the Jewish people. G-d is like a king. G-d, it is explained, is like a king possessing an amazing treasure. G-d loves to count the Jewish people and ensure no one is lost. G-d with His counting declares, “I have created the magnificent stars of the universe, yet it is Israel who will do my will”.
The other concept in this Torah portion has the Pidyon Haben: redemption of the first born. This ritual is performed on the thirtieth day for all males, except those from Aaronides or Levitical descent. In ancient times, all males were required to do priestly services because the firstborn of Israel were spared from the slaying in Egypt. The Levites were then assigned to perform the services instead of the firstborn sons. Numbers (3:12).
The connection of the Torah portion to the Haftarah is one of Infidelity.
Hosea’s wife, Gomer, was unfaithful to him. He would often plead with her to return. Likewise, the parallel is to the life of the Israelites vis-a-vis G-d. The result is of punishment, but in the end there would be a reunion between the Israelites and G-d, and G-d would shine His blessings down upon His people.
This coming week the Jewish people received the most precious gift from G-d, His Ten Commandments, which represents all 613 Commandments! The Torah! While some Jews hold onto their Judaic rituals and practices, and others may not, all Jews are G-d’s children, and each finds Him in their own time and way.
May this holiday bring each of you the joy of Judaism in all its unique ways.
Remember it is a dairy holiday because the Israelites learn about Kashrut. The Matriarchs and Patriarchs always knew the ways of Judaism. Enjoy the cheesecake, blintzes, and ice cream!
Am Ysrael Chai let us all pray for Israel to rescue the Hostages and end the evil Hamas in Gaza.
Shabbat Shalom v’ Yom Tov. (candles for Shavuot are lit on Sunday night),
Rabbi Helene Ainbinder