Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

In Jewish tradition, the month of Heshvan, which begins today, is called Mar Heshvan, the bitter Heshvan. Coming off Tishrei, we became accustomed to solemnity, joy, and celebration. It seemed like every day of Tishrei was some form of a sacred festival day.

With the month of Heshvan, there is no yom tov and no festival. The bitter Heshvan comes after the Holy Day month of Tishrei and prior to the month of Kislev, which provides us with the eight joyous days of Chanukah.

At Beth Emeth, the aftermath of Simchat Torah included a Bar and Bat Mitzvah last week. On this past Shabbat, a thirteen year old received his first Aliyah on the date of his thirteenth Hebrew birthday. Today, on  the first day of Heshvan, another thirteen year old receives his first Aliyah. On this coming Shabbat, the same young man will read the Torah and Haftarah.

Beyond, the simchas we are celebrating in the beginning of Heshvan, we can all transform this month without holidays into a season of happiness by renewing ourselves. With the onset of a new calendar year and new Torah reading cycle, the decision is in our hands to make for ourselves a month and a lifetime of joy and fulfillment.

I wish us all Chodesh Tov, a good new month.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison