A Chanukah Message from Rabbi Arnold M. Goodman

FOR THE BLESSING OF …

THE GIFT OF LIFE created in the Divine image, the gift I share with every human being.

THE GIFT OF FREEDOM to live in free democratic countries: in the United States and in Israel.

THE GIFT OF JERUSALEM, where I have spent the past 20 years of my life, and where, on Friday afternoon, as stores close and traffic thins, I sense the Shabbat Queen slowly descending from heaven.

THE GIFT OF FAMILY CONTINUITY that is evoked every Shabbat as I bless my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

THE GIFT OF TORAH STUDY, which has informed my life. The unlimited treasure trove of teachings in the Bible, the Talmud and rabbinic sources through the ages until this very day continues to inform and shape my life.

THE GIFT OF COLLEGIALITY that enables me to relate to study with colleagues, and students of all ages. There is great wisdom in the rabbinic observation that this blessing sustains us emotionally, spiritually and physically. Were this lacking, my life could well atrophy.

THE GIFT OF ZOOMING that has been an antidote to the loneliness and separation during this pandemic. We have Zoomed to create family reunions, to stay in touch with loved ones and friends and to bring synagogue services into our homes. We have Zoomed to share in a simcha, to be present at a funeral and to comfort mourners during shiva.

THE GIFT OF MODERN MEDICINE and the miracle of the human body. The pandemic impacted and threatened our lives, but scientific and medical advances have enabled us to be immunized. This Thanksgiving, I am especially thankful for the skill of the surgeons that attended to my fractured hip and for my body’s capacity to heal.

May the blessings of good health, good tidings and fulfillment of the wishes of our hearts for good brighten all our lives and those of our loved ones.

From the holy city of Jerusalem, my best wishes for a happy Thanksgiving and a festive celebration of Chanukah.

Rabbi Arnold M. Goodman was the senior rabbi of Ahavath Achim Synagogue (1982-2002). He now resides in Jerusalem.