One of the most attractive elements of Judaism – for both Jews and non-Jews – is the tradition of asking questions. Questions are often followed by an argument that is “for the sake of heaven,” meaning to deepen our understanding, not to defeat the other guy.
Whether you are learning about Judaism or teaching someone (maybe your partner), don’t rely on one source. Explore other opinions on the topic. Find alternate stories or parables that will give you a different angle on your subject.
Let’s jump into a big question: GOD
Do all Jews believe there is a god? I love the answer a Conservative rabbi gave in one of my Taste of Judaism classes. He said, “Jews believe in one god… or fewer.”
In another Taste class led by an Orthodox rabbi we were given Jewish concept after concept of what God might be like. Leaving the class one student turned to me enthusiastically and said, “I like this guy! He even argues with himself!”
Sometimes individuals are afraid to ask a rabbi. They fear that the question is a form of doubt, lack of faith, or a subtle challenge. Don’t be afraid. If there is one thing all rabbis love, it’s a question! Make a list of questions, but be sure to allow enough time. An answer can readily lead to another question.
When someone tells you something, don’t be afraid to check it out. That includes me. I can only share what I know; I can’t offer you the riches of the ages. Read, question, study. This is YOUR life and you deserve to know and to make decisions from a place of knowledge and understanding.
EVENTS
Tot Shabbat (Alameda)
The Struggle for Democracy in Post October 7 Israel (San Rafael)
Peninsula Newborn Playgroup (Palo Alto)
Jewish Families of Color Weekend (Near Yosemite National Park)
Shabbat Musical Guest Eliana Light (San Mateo)
S’lichot: Forgiveness & Self-Forgiveness (Lafayette)
Tot Shabbat
The best family friendly Shabbat experience in Alameda for families with children ages 5 and under!
Music! Puppets! Stories! Holidays!
Dates: Sept. 14, Dec. 14, Feb. 8, 2025, March 8, 2025 and April 12, 2025
Time: 10:30am
Place: Temple Israel Courtyard, 3181 Mecartney Rd., Alameda
Free
Questions: totshabbat@templeisraelalameda.org
The Struggle for Democracy, Equality and Jewish Pluralism in a Post October 7th Israel
Orly Erez-Likhovski, Executive Director of Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC), will share perspectives on fighting for a Jewish and democratic Israel, during times of war and peace. We will explore the struggle to protect Israel’s democracy and what has changed after October 7th, as well as IRAC’s ongoing work defending the rights of all Israelis, regardless of race, religion or gender.
Light refreshments will be served beforehand, at 12:45 pm.
Date: Saturday, September 14
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Place: Outdoor Chapel, 2nd Floor, Rodef Sholom, 170 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael
Please register here to attend this in-person event.
Peninsula Newborn Playgroup
Got a baby between 0 – 9 Months? Join us as we share the oys and joys of being a new parent. Connect with your baby through interactive Jewish rituals and everyday play while sharing the joys and oys of being a new parent. Every participant receives a complimentary baby bag full of gifts for you and your baby.
Date: Sunday, September 15
Time: 10:30am – 12pm
Place: Parents Place, Koret Family Resource Center, 200 Channing Ave., Palo Alto
Hosted by Jewish Baby Network
Register here
Jewish Families of Color Weekend
An intentional affinity space for Jewish families of color (JOC+*) to build community and rejuvenate in the stunning beauty of the Sierra Mountains. Join us to celebrate and center our multiracial Jewish community and cultural richness.
For the fourth year, Camp Tawonga is thrilled to offer an affinity space just for families with at least one person of color in their household. This weekend will celebrate multiracial Jewish community by centering JOC+* and offering dynamic workshops, discussions and other programming led by JOC+* guest educators on topics of interest and relevance to you.
Date: September 19 – 22, 2024, (Thursday – Sunday)|
Place: Camp Tawonga, next to Yosemite National Park
For details, prices and to register go here
Shabbat Musical Guest Eliana Light
We’re excited to host musician and educator Eliana Light and include some of her sweet, soulful melodies in our Erev Shabbat service.
Eliana is on tour for the month of Elul, singing and learning with 15+ communities around the country to prepare our minds and hearts for the High Holy Days. She’ll share her passion for prayer and unique “t’fillahsophy” with us through word and song.
Learn more about her work and music at www.elianalight.com
Date: Friday, Sept 20
Time: 6:30 pm
Place: Peninsula Temple Beth El, 1700 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo
Questions? Contact Cantor Elana
https://www.ptbe.org
S’lichot: Forgiveness & Self-Forgiveness
Join us for an introspective program preceding our S’lichot service. Kendra Fried, Founder of Neshamah Yoga & Wellness, is a somatic spiritual wellness practitioner who will lead you on a journey inward in preparation for S’lichot and the High Holy Days. Explore spiritual practices that will help you mindfully and meaningfully enter the most holy time of the year. Participants will also learn practices that they can use on their own through the Days of Awe. A reception at 8pm will be followed by a meaning-filled service in our darkened, candle-lit Sanctuary at 8:30pm.
Date: Saturday, September 28
Time: 7pm
Place: Temple Isaiah, 945 Risa Rd, Lafayette AND onYouTube
Questions? Contact the Temple Isaiah office at (925) 283-8575
https://temple-isaiah.org/