Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

Before we were called Jews or Israelites, we were known as Hebrews. This week's portion of Lech Lecha regards our founding partriarch as Avram Ha'Ivri, Abram the Hebrew. The Midrash comments that Ivri stems from a root which means on the other side. Our tradition understands Abram standing on one side of the river, and the nations of the world standing on the other side of the river. This ancient lesson teaches that the Jewish value system was distinctive in its understanding of God, morality, and values from the inception of our people and our faith.

For 4000 years, we have celebrated Jewish distinctiveness with pride. During our history, elements  of Judaism have entered and influenced other religions in the world. Distinctive Jewish ideas helped give birth to Christianity and Islam.

However, Jewish distinctiveness has also led to anti-semitism during most of our history. Even our first patriarch had to contend with those who would not accept him because of his beliefs and values.

Two years ago this week, on October 27, a Shabbat morning shooting at the Tree of Life - Or L'Simcha Synagogue in Pittsburgh resulted in deaths and injuries. We recall that horrific tragedy and honor the memories of those who were slain that day.

Such an anniversary reminds us that while Judaism has brought meaning to Jews and non-Jews for thousands of years, our journey has also been associated with the unleashing of hatred on grand and small scales. 

This week, we renew our connection to Avram Ha'Ivri, who stood alone on one side and introduced the world to the oneness of God and a distinctive value system.

Rabbi Howard Morrison