The levels of Shavuot

The holiday of Shavuot operates on several different levels. On the one hand, it is an entirely independent festival that marks “the giving of the Torah.” At the same time, it is clearly tied to the holiday of Passover by the ritual of the “Counting of the Omer.” In the words of Maimonides:

“We count the days that pass since the preceding festival, just as one who expects his most intimate friend on a certain day counts the days and even the hours. This is the reason why we count the days … between during the exodus and celebrated at Passover only becomes true freedom at Shavuot with the acceptance of Torah.

The biblical omission of a precise date for that act of acceptance teaches that although the initial act of receiving the Torah at Sinai was crucial, the ongoing acceptance of the Torah by each Jew every day of every generation is part of the process. The Israelites received the Torah “bayom hazeh” — on this day, a deliberately, openended expression rather than a specific chronological date to teach that “this day” is really every day.

Revelation is ongoing in our lives, if we permit it to function. As we develop our sense of accepting the Torah and let its relevance inform the nature and fabric of our lives, then we become the critical link from Sinai to our own day. The giving of the Torah took place at Sinai; the receiving of the Torah takes place every day if we permit it.

Yes, it can even continue into the summer months. The longer days give us the opportunity to try new experiences, hopefully, some of them intended to broaden our Jewish horizons and deepen our knowledge and understanding of the tradition received at Sinai. Take the time to read some books of Jewish content and even indulge yourself in some moments of meditation and prayer, preferably in the synagogue

Have a great Holiday of Shavuot and a refreshing summer.

The Rabbinically Speaking column is provided as a public service by the Jewish Press in cooperation with the Pinellas County Board of Rabbis. Columns are assigned, on a rotating basis by the board.