This Time Is The Last Time

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

I am a fan of films that were produced during the “Golden Age” of movies. Somehow they ring with sentiment, innocence and deliver a message that resonates to today.

One such film was “This is the army.” The songs and lyrics were written by Irving Berlin, probably the most patriotic song writer of his time. Even today we sing God Bless America during good times as well as bad. His fervor for the message of freedom represented by a country called America is legendary. One other song writer comes to mind, George M. Cohan – but Irving Berlin, to me epitomizes the struggle and yearning of a displaced people to breathe freedom and contribute their very beings to this dream that became reality.

Watching the movie gave me goose bumps as I listened to the songs and the clear message that “This time would be the last time.” Twenty five years earlier we marched across Europe proclaiming the end of all war and here we were, once more, sacrificing lives, resources and limbs to make sure that this, indeed, was the last time we would have to send our youth into harms way. It was a noble thought and a just expression of the goodness that was America.

Norman Cousins once wrote that patriotism begins with human allegiance. And that in essence was what we believed as we sailed across the seas to distant places, familiar to some, but strange to most. It was a time of enthusiasm and loyalty to country that we have not seen since.

We have been in many struggles in our history as a nation, but none seemed to generate the collective patriotism as the big war – the war fought by the “greatest generation.” And it was known by the principles of decency and fairness and togetherness that made us a nation of one voice and one mind. Youngsters collected nickels and dimes to purchase war bonds giving our leaders the ability to champion the cause of all humanity. We collected fat, rubber and anything that could be melted down to afford our soldiers, sailors and marines the ability to finish what we never started but were forced to participate in. And we did all this not for our sake alone, but for “the wretched refuse” who came to our shores for safety. We accepted the “homeless, tempest-tossed” who sailed into New York Harbor and dreamed the dream of the ages.

Sixteen million men and women were called to service and they, in large part, went with a feeling of righting the wrongs that existed in the world. Many died and many were wounded beyond repair. And we welcomed them home with the dignity they deserved because we were a giving people.

Never in the history of this country have we seen such devotion since that time of hoping and longing. Never have we shown our gratitude for those who sacrificed so much for us.

There was Korea that followed the “last time” and then Viet Nam and Somalia and Grenada and the Gulf war and the Iraq war. And there were and still are conflicts all around this globe that brings us the realization that man wasn’t destined to be peaceful. We seem to be drawn to killing as though it were some initiation into manhood. The world has not learned anything from the past. I don’t remember who said that if we don’t learn from history we are doomed to repeat it but it is one of the truths that ring throughout the annals of time.

Chaim Weizman wrote that the Messianic hope is a hope which a nation cannot forget without ceasing to be a nation. A time will come when there will be neither enemies nor frontiers, when war shall be no more, and men will be secure in the dignity of speech. I cannot help but wonder whether that is truly a dream or a sincere wish. I believe that he speaks for all of mankind because we need the assurance that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that fear will be a memory.

What will it take for everyone to realize that “this time is the last time” refers to an age of enlightenment followed by a commitment to further the essence of our being which is the connection to one another and to God?

In The Word, I read a very significant story from Tanhuma:
If the man of learning participates in public affairs and serves as a judge or arbitrator, he establishes the land. But if he sits at home and says to himself, “What have the affairs of society to do with me? Why should I concern myself with the lawsuits of the people? Why should I trouble myself with their voices of protest? Let my soul dwell in peace!” – if he does this, he overthrows the world.

When Rabbi Ammi’s hour to die was at hand, his nephew saw him weeping bitterly. He said: “Uncle and Teacher, why do you weep? Is there any Torah that you have not learned and taught? Is there any form of kindness that you have not practiced? And above all else, you have never accepted a public office and you have kept yourself apart from sitting in judgment.”

The rabbi replied: “It is for this very reason that I weep. I was granted the ability to weigh justice between those who argue and I have not conducted myself according to my capability.”

We are embarking on a New Year. A year that is no different than the past one because we are still struggling to understand that greed and anger and hate must be subdued. But it can be a year in which we discern that religion should help our country to understand that our responsibilities to each other are the same responsibilities we should show to God.

Will we ever learn that this must be the last time because we are running out of time? Our nation faces many issues and perhaps that is why we chose to elect a fresh approach to our survival not only as a nation but a people who remain committed to the principal of human allegiance.

The Generations That Follow

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

If there is anything sure in this life it is the continuation of the generations. The journey of life contains so many experiences, but the glue that gives life meaning is the knowledge that when we are gone there will be another to take our place. That has been, and continues to be the design of creation. The very first understanding of continuity is the blessing given by God to “be fruitful and multiply.” The act of procreation is instinctive in every living being. Some of us live to create and some die in the process. It is a marvel to behold, whether humans, animals or plants.

The Ten Commandments regard the acknowledgement of parents as a fundamental part of the wonderment of creation. The blending of lives to ensure the fulfillment of God’s plan enables us to understand that one plus one equals two and even three and four and more. And there are other sacred writings that teach about the love of parents for their children; and the love of the children is for their children and that is the personification of the journey of life that has no end.

The world we live in, which we inherited from past generations, is a marvelous place. It is filled with such amazing blessings. And the greatest of these blessings is the foundation established by joining together in a ritual of love and connection. When we look at our reflection in the eyes of our beloved we see ourselves as well because that makes the union complete.

I am always amazed at the loving attention we get from each other. It is a bond that is so strong that it is evidently a blessing from God who created each of us in His image and who was present at the creation of our love and who has prepared for us a perpetual and wondrous fabric of life.

And yet, it is that sacred moment, the moment of confessing love and devotion that helps us understand the newness of life as it unfolds to usher in a new chapter of existence together. The joys and sorrows that will be shared can and should teach us to grow together in understanding and devotion.

So a new year begins and perhaps with it a new episode in the journey we embark upon as we start to bind ourselves to a new found love, a new enthusiasm for the excitement of blending body and soul. There is intoxication: The glow of anticipation. There is fulfillment: The gratification of completing the search for true love.

The generations continue because life is never ending and we are part of the chain that embraces continuity. Our love will endure through the storms of everyday existence because we commit to the sanctity of companionship.

We too will bring life to future generations and that will guarantee that everything has meaning. We bring hopes and dreams and faith in each other which will ennoble all who witness and share this love as we begin a new year.

All of this comes to mind when I think about the season just around the corner. Hanukkah has become so significant but for the wrong reasons. The essence of the holiday is the understanding that love conquers all: The love of God and the faith of our fathers. There can be no brighter light emanating from the Menorah than the light of understanding and faithfulness.

Brides and grooms remind me of this each and every time I unite them in marriage. There is a glow that brightens the path to completion. I am especially reminded of such radiance because the glow from the Menorah represents the glow of the hopes of humanity, the hopes of a couple just beginning the journey that will take them to strange places and even stranger occurrences.

The generations will follow as sure as love is in the air. Hanukkah helps us understand the true meaning of compassion and strength. Light not only represents awareness but it also enables us to find our way in the darkness that surrounds us. It doesn’t only matter that there was enough oil for one day or that it lasted for eight. It doesn’t only matter that a band of zealots overcame unimaginable odds to secure religious freedom for all. What does matter is that we remember and we tell the story, in whatever form, however we embellish it. What does really matter is that we are here to do just that and every faith on the face of the earth owes its existence to this insignificant feat that took place 2200 years ago.

That is continuity in its highest form and that is what love, the love of a bride and groom, represent to me as I watch the sparkle in an eye illuminate the whole world. What better blessing can we achieve this time of the year or any time of the year?

To Dedicate A Torah

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

My congregation recently dedicated a new Torah and many thoughts ran through my mind during this commemoration. We all know that when a synagogue is formed the prominent aspect of its importance is the Torah. For without the Torah the building or location is just that – a building and location. Sometimes we lose sight of the significance and concentrate on the magnificent structure we call the synagogue.

And so I asked the question: “Why the celebration of a new Torah? Why do we revere this symbol of reverence and history? Why have so many perished in defense of its message?”

These are complex questions and I tried to answer them as simply as possible; as I understand the value of Torah in the life of the Jewish People.

First and foremost-Torah represents continuity. We cannot have a present or a future without experiencing a past. We cannot imagine who we are if we don’t know where we came from. We cannot truly relate to the meaning of life without regard to our origin.

Then there is heritage-Torah gives us a sense of commitment. We cannot appreciate life if we don’t have an understanding of how we got here. We cannot refer to tradition if we don’t know what that tradition is.

Those are the things we cannot do. What about the things we can do and sometimes neglect? There are times we concentrate on the negative without really appreciating that these negatives all form a positive respect for law and justice and mercy and forgiveness and connection.

By revering Torah we are expressing our respect for the written word. We are acknowledging the importance of words in our relationship with one another and with God. We are displaying an admiration for learning because we understand that knowledge is the foundation in achieving our potential. After all, the world as we know it was formed with words-“And God said….”

So dedicating a Torah means the acceptance of maintaining those ties that we regard as Holy and insightful and revealing. Sometimes we take these concepts for granted and we lose sight of our responsibility of caring for the “Book.” We forget, at times, the importance of our journey from the introduction given to us by Abraham to the advent of the re-birth of the State of Israel.

Five thousand years of history have taught us that we are a people of survival. Empires and civilizations have vanished but the People of Israel lives. It is surely no accident. We are a people of resilience, a people who, even though we go through doubts and fears, can walk the walk and talk the talk of the sanctity of life and the sacrifices necessary to protect that life and even enhance it.
Unimaginable things have happened on this journey. We have witnessed pogroms, Diaspora, attempted annihilation, humiliation, genocide. And we have lived to see another day.

Imaginable things have happened to us as well. We have contributed to humankind more than any other people, not because we are better or smarter but because we trust in the goodness of the spirit and the freedom to express that goodness. We appreciate the beauty of life and are motivated to enhance that life and somehow make it better for all. Not just for us but for all of God’s children.

King David wrote is Psalm 30, at the dedication of the House of David: “….Thou didst turn for me my mourning into dancing; Thou didst loose my sackcloth, and gird me with gladness; So that my glory may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent; O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto Thee for ever.”

King David was trying to explain the insecurity of human existence. The afflictions we endure are outweighed by the favors shown us by God. “His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime.”

Dedicating a Torah we are affirming our optimism that all can be right. Even God describes such optimism when after each day of creation He declares: “And it was good.”
Even though evil exists we need to believe that the goodness within us makes the actuality of evil more bearable. Our allegiance to dignity and mercy enable us to cope with all the bad that surrounds us. The Psalmist helps us understand that thou “weeping may tarry for the night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Hope is the special ingredient that allows us to reach for the brightness of tomorrow.

There is a celebration upon completing the reading of the Torah each year and it is followed by beginning again because as Solomon ibn Gabirol wrote: “People are only wise when they are searching for wisdom; when they feel they have achieved it completely, they are fools.” That is why we read over and over again the portions of the Torah. We gain new insight each and every time we read the same sentence or the same chapter.

People always marvel at our determination, our stick-to-itiveness and I politely tell them that we have endured because of two things: 1 - We can laugh at our adversity and misfortune. Because we understand that only through laughter can we maintain our sanity. 2 – We carry with us, wherever we go or are sent, the very “Book” that explains to us the value of life and the purpose for our being.

We dedicate a Torah because of all these things and more. Not all of us adhere to every thing that is written. Not all of us understand all that is written. But we know that the words are there. Some rejoice in its message. Some die for its content without ever knowing the true meaning of their sacrifice.

But we continue to dedicate Torahs and we know that without Torah we are not ensuring continuity and without Torah there is no Israel.

Thanksgiving

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

In Midrash Rabbah it is written that Rabbi Aibo said: “When the Angels objected to the creation of man, God replied: ‘And of what use are all of the good things I have created unless people are there to enjoy them?’ “

Perhaps that is what Thanksgiving is all about. It is not only the good things that we realize for ourselves through the efforts of our labor, but also to understand that God gave us the ability to discover these treasures.

Thanksgiving enables us to comprehend the true meaning of life: To be thankful for all the harvests of our days. God is where God should be-in our hearts and minds, in our deeds and actions, in our relationships and understanding of each other.

Thanksgiving should help us realize that we are responsible for one another and that there can be no true jubilation without this moral standard. We are responsible to others for our actions and the consequences of those actions. We are responsible to God for those things that relate to our spiritual well-being. We are responsible to ourselves for purpose and meaning in our lives.

Our lives are so tenuous, our existence indeed fragile, and the gift of life so temporary that we should take the time to celebrate, rejoice, and give thanks. “And of what use are all of the good things I have created unless people are there to enjoy them.” God tells us to marvel in His creation, to take advantage of the very essence of life’s wonderment. The very act of creation was and is the gift of a lifetime.

We have so much to be grateful for. We get up each morning and see all that is before us. We watch a bird fly and are astounded that it can soar into the unknown. We walk on the grass and are amazed that as seasons change so does nature. Children teach us about the cycle of time: They crawl, they walk, the make sounds, they talk, they grow and eventually wither and then we witness birth all over again. We lose a loved one but are comforted with the wonder of eternalness.

Thanksgiving is also a time to be thankful for our country and all that it represents to us and the world around us. America represents all that is good in the human spirit. We are a people devoted to the exploration of the imagination. We treasure benevolence and practice it every waking moment. But we also know that we have failings because we are human, created in the image of God to be Godlike, but with fallibilities. We can offend, but we can also forgive; we at times are lonely but understand that love can erase that feeling of emptiness; we can be foolish but blend it with a modicum of discretion; we experience grief but temper it with understanding. We can be all these things and also realize that the journey of life is filled with all this and more because God invited us to participate in His gift of life - not the Angels, but us.

And Thanksgiving gives us the ability to be grateful for the men and women who serve this country with the same zeal of generations past. They serve on distant shores and here at home because they know that the price of liberty is vigilance and preparedness.

Families will gather together on this American holiday to feast on turkey, enjoy stories of yesterday’s celebrations and make wishes for the dreams of tomorrow. We will reflect and finally come to the realization that the insignificant things that drag us down are not important if we are to survive as a nation. And we should never forget how fortunate we are as Americans.

This is what Thanksgiving is all about: God gave us the wonderfulness of life, the magic of day and night, the capacity to hope for a brighter tomorrow. And He did all this, not for the Angels, but for us.

Duty, Honor and Country

In Honor of Veterans Day

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

At precisely eleven AM on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, in the year 1918, the “war to end all wars” concluded. If the people who experienced the nightmare known as World War Two are referred to as the “Greatest Generation” then I submit to you that the wave of humanity fighting in the First World War should be referred to as the “Naïve Generation.”

There was no glory to speak of only the gory mess of millions dead and millions more maimed-their lives destroyed. And the only things that came out of that horrific episode in humanities quest to kill were seeds that involved us in the next encounter which then led to the cold war, which then led to Korea, which then led to Viet Nam, and to the last Gulf War that too ended poetically in the 100th day. Perhaps if the war had lasted 101 days we wouldn’t be there now. But that is a subject for another time. And, of course there were other wars that were also supposed to “end all wars.”

Wars have been with us since time immemorial. When we do not understand someone or don’t like the color of a person’s skin or the tone in a voice or thoughts spoken, we take up arms to destroy that which is different. But don’t forget that most wars are fought because of economics, the current one being no different.

We, as a people, know only too well what that means. We, as a people, have visited the shadow of death in pogroms, the Holocaust, discrimination in the work place, in schools, in the arts. And yet, we as a people, have contributed immeasurably to the betterment of society – the betterment of the human experience.

We recently celebrated the 350th anniversary of our arrival on these shores. It was not an easy journey. We arrived here from distant lands where we felt the wrath of indifference and contempt. We have been tested time and again but we have been true to each and every place we found ourselves and, in particular, to this country which afforded us the greatest comfort and protection – but not without cost.

We contributed to the revolution that gave birth to this great nation – a man named Hayim Solomon comes to mind – who gave his fortune to ensure the survival of the struggle for independence and freedom. There were Americans named Levy and Strauss and Einstein and Brandeis who contributed their efforts to guarantee the continuation of a dream called America.

Each generation has produced faithful and true guardians of democracy from the ranks of immigrants whose only hope was that they could live, as Isaiah said, under their fig tree and feel secure.

Each generation of American Jews answered the call because we knew as Jeremiah instructed us: “Seek the welfare of the land into which I have seen you carried in exile, and pray to the Lord on this land’s behalf; for in its welfare shall you find your welfare.”

And yes, we even took up arms to ensure this freedom and security for all the people of this great land – not just the rich – not only the poor – but everyone who lives in this beacon of hope. We were not born soldiers – we were farmers or tailors or musicians and laborers trying to earn a living to support our families and bring those less fortunate to be with us as we began a new life in a new land.

We became soldiers and airmen and sailors and marines – we fought and some of us died and some of us were injured beyond repair – but we came to the aid of our America. We stand here proud of our contribution to liberty and equality for all. We fought side by side with the Jones’ and Smiths’ – we cheered when they came home from battle as we thanked God for our survival as well. We danced in the streets when wars ended because we loved our liberty. Those who hated us never understood that.

So here we are – four score and ten years after the end of the “War to end all wars,” – not to commemorate a cemetery in honor the Civil War dead as President Abraham Lincoln declared in his famous Gettysburg address, but to pay tribute to all who served from the beginning of our history here in America to today where we see our young men and women sacrifice even more to ensure that the freedom our generation fought for will not be lost. That is the responsibility that each generation takes upon itself – to guarantee the future as we did before. Yes, it was four score and ten years ago that that dreadful encounter with hell ended. And it in memory of all wars that we continue the remembrance from Decoration Day to its new name – Veterans Day.

We pay tribute to all who served and all who continue to serve, and, in particular, all who sacrificed life and limb. May the dreams that brought us to this day not be lost and may those now in harms way find their way back in safety and may we never lose sight of the sacrifice for Duty, Honor and Country. It is not only the American way, it is the Jewish way.

Our Relationship With God:Core of Jewish Beliefs

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Maimonides begins his thirteen principles of faith with the declaration: “I believe with perfect faith………….” He then proceeds to detail this faith so that his life and those whom he influences will have a better grasp on what it means to be faithful. And these principles are filled with traditional expressions that have come down to us through the generations.

Since Talmudic times each generation has tried to interpret the meaning of life, the relationship with God as described in Scripture, so that it has relevance for their time and place. Humanities desire to communicate with God; to understand God’s commandments; to be one with God so to have a better insight into what Godliness is all about, that is the eternal quest.

There were the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Essene’s, the Zealots and so on, all determined to convince their followers as well as others that their path was the right one; the only one to true allegiance to God. Our generation is no exception. We have Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist, Humanistic and more. The fact that we are called Israel is no accident of fate. This name was given to us to remind us of the struggle involved in trying to comprehend the very notion of God. The only thing that makes us different from the past is the present.

Abraham challenges God when He determines to destroy Sodom and Gomorra. Moses argues with God to forgive and forget the transgressions of a people delivered from the yoke of the oppressor only to be saddled with the yoke of a slave mentality. The Hebrew Bible is filled with such discourse with God because we understand only to well that complete obedience inhibits freedom of choice.

Yes, we believe that there is a single God who not only created the universe, but with whom every person can have an individual and personal relationship. A God we sometimes doubt. A God we sometimes blame for all that is evil in the world. A God we question as to His very existence when we see pain and affliction. A God who is also compassionate and forgiving. And even as we believe we also have doubts, but those doubts should not deter us from searching for an answer to reinforce our belief or enhance our desire to make sense of it all.

We believe that God continues to work in the world, affecting everything that people do. This does not mean that everything is controlled by God, rather that everything was created for us and we have to find the resources created by God to make our existence more meaningful so that we will be able to continue the partnership of creation. Freedom of choice is the one major ingredient in this partnership.

It is a partnership and we know this because we, in effect, are continually changing. We are always searching for answers to the meaning of life. We create, not only, lives as we procreate, but also situations that reinforce our concept of survival. Being created in the image of God is our gateway to taking hold of our existence that gives us the capacity to enable that relationship to flourish. Partners compliment each other, not duplicate each other. Nor are partners’ mirrors of each other.

The Jewish relationship with God is also a “covenant” relationship. In exchange for the many opportunities that God has afforded to us, we need to be thankful and inventive at the same time. We should try to bring holiness and respect for law into every aspect of our lives because that is a connection allowing us to be true partners.

Judaism is also a faith of community for we believe that “chosen” refers to a mission, not that we are better than anyone else, but “chosen” to set an example, to inform all of humanity about the existence of God. That is true community. I disagree with those who would remain aloof and not share their religious fervor. Of what value is it to believe and keep that belief confined to a certain place or a certain society? Zealousness is not a synonym for exclusiveness. Even Hillel directed us to not separate ourselves from the community because the future of faith is dependent upon total exposure.

Even our prayers indicate the truth of this. Our prayers, for the most part, are written in the plural because we know that humanity cannot survive without human connection. Search through the prayer books and you will find that the ultimate extension of our prayer experience is the request for collective welfare.

We are also concerned with family and our rituals and ceremonies are focused upon family participation. Holidays such as Passover, Hanukkah, Sukkot are all designed to express religious understanding through family involvement. These particular holidays are concentrated in the home because faith begins with family group association. Our first introduction to God centers on the blessings we recite when we retire, when we awake, when we celebrate Shabbat. These expressions are reinforced when we attend religious school or the synagogue.

Finally, Judaism believes that all people are eligible to receive salvation-God’s blessings. That is why we respect other beliefs. That is why we don’t seek the conversion of the world. That is why we celebrate goodness from whatever source. We are motivated by the dictate of the Prophet Mica: “To do justly (fairness to one another), love mercy (kindness) and walk humbly with God (acknowledging the oneness of God and our attempt to be one with the Creator regardless of religious observance).”

Regardless of the path one chooses, Jew or non-Jew, the destination is the prime importance. And as Jeremiah proclaimed, as prescribed by God: “I know the place I have for you says God – a future and a hope.”

Kever Avot:
The Resting Places of our Ancestors

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

There is a beautiful ceremony that takes place each year during the Hebrew month of Elul. Sometimes it occurs on the Sunday between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. It is called Kever Avot.

We visit the gravesites of our relatives and friends and whisper their names as we attempt to remember and pay tribute to their memories. Some of us are not able to connect because of distant burials but we gather together at a cemetery because it symbolizes for us the resting places of everyone we knew and loved and cherished.

It is a graceful reminder of the flight of time as well as encouraging us to gain strength from the lives of loved ones. Some losses are recent and some more distant but all involving the recollection of achievements and defeats that make up our journey of life.

Not only do we memorialize but we also console. We have all traveled the road of the valley of the shadows and we understand the need for solace and comfort that is achieved with family and friends.

At this time of the year – the High Holidays – we are especially mindful of the fragility of life. We think of a Book that is open to the page with our name at the heading. And we wonder about our fate as well as those who have gone before us. We wonder whether we are doing justice to memories. No more smiles or laughter. No more touching or caressing. There is so much of no more.

Now is the time for memory to replace existence. Now is the time for healing so that remembrances of our loved ones have meaning. This is how we do justice to memories.
This is how we put into perspective our lives so that there are no regrets.

The people we remember at the Kever Avot ceremony do not have any tomorrows but they are always with us. We are their tomorrows. But what happens when we are gone – who will continue remember? The answer to that question, in my opinion, is quite simple: The Angels will continue to sing their names and God will always remember. The candles we light year after year will remain burned in the stars that shine forever. This is God’s promise of eternal life.

At this time – the time of Kever Avot – and the time of Yizkor, we concentrate on the reminiscences of all who were dear to us and who no longer travel the journey of life with us. Their memories should remind us that time is precious. And we should share every moment with someone we care about or needs us to lend a helping hand. The we will truly do honor to the memories that are part of our feelings – right now – right at the spot we find ourselves during this time – on this solemn occasion. Maybe this will help us as we travel the path that will lead us to the very spot we cherish.

I read a poem recently. There was no mention of the author. But it rings in my mind as I try to respect the dignity of the fallen ones:

And if I go while you are still here – know that I live on,
vibrating still to a different measure behind a thin veil you
cannot see through.

You will not see me, so you must have faith.

I wait the time when we can soar together again,
both aware of each other.

Until then, live your lives to the fullest.
And when you need me, just whisper my name in your heart-
I will be there.

Kever Avot gives us the ability to whisper the names of those we miss and know that they are with us as we remember.

The Best Years of Our Lives
Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

I’ll bet that many people have seen the classic film of 1946, “The best years of our lives.” I must have seen it at least ten times and each time I watch I get a new feeling of warmth and a sense of sadness. It is a charming movie filled with emotion and wonderment and simplicity and innocence. In fact that time, immediately following World War 11, was a time of innocence. We were thrust into a war that saw millions of our men and women uprooted from every day living and sent to distant shores to fight for “justice, freedom and the American” way.

People cared about people. Neighbors knew each other. Doors were never locked. Children played in the streets. Bread was five cents. Bottles of milk had cream at the top. Coal trucks delivered fuel. Ice trucks liberated us from the heat and enabled us to preserve our food longer than for a day. Stamps were a penny. We didn’t need to get our phone calls from a corner store because now there were phones in the home – party lines and all. When we look back it certainly appears to be have been the “best years of our lives.”

How did we manage to move from then to now? Watching the movie helped me realize that each generation had its demons as well as renewal. There were those who returned from battle with scars that never healed. There were those who greeted these heroes without really understanding the torment endured or the nightmares that woke them in the middle of the night.

Returning servicemen and women were given as much help as was known at the time to enable them to rejoin the lives and loves they left behind. But the people they returned to, who endured the loneliness, the emptiness, never had the opportunity to prepare for things not being the same as they were before. True there were parades and cheering but when all that died down it was back to the reality of a changed community, a changed town, a changed country.

At this time of the year we roll back the pages of time and recall the bad and the good that has transpired. We even reflect further back to our youth and remember loved ones who no longer are here to share the next holiday. We also need to adjust to the changes that occur all around us.

Technology is different. We no longer have juke boxes or bee-bop. We no longer sit at the corner candy store and sip an ice cream soda or drink a malted and listen to the miniature recordings at the table or counter. Gas is no longer 25 cents a gallon and the purity of life is just a memory.

Now we are racing all over the place going from here to nowhere. Phones are glued to our ears. Greed is the new virtue. Our faith has been shaken by events that we cannot control. Everything is now instant – we don’t even have time to absorb what is happening all round us. And that is why we are here today – to stop the world – not to get off – but to enable us to think for a moment about who we are – where we are going – where we have been and why we are here.

Yes, it is Rosh Hashanah. What does that mean? Simply put it should be the beginning of the best years of our lives. It’s fun to reminisce. It’s amusing to remember our youth. But then reality sets in and we are here – right now – in this place – ready to start a New Year filled with all the dreams of the past which should give us the courage and ability to plan for the future.

Over the years we have learned valuable lessons. To me the most important of these is how to treat our friends and neighbors and service men and women. It wasn’t that long ago when we treated our warriors with disdain and contempt. They answered the call of their country and their country turned their backs on them. We no longer put stars in our windows or proudly announce duty to country and flag.

I believe that we are finally more aware of the value of service. And we can and should be cognizant of the value of life. We were not meant to stand and agonize over incidental things – things that really have no impact on our happiness. We live too much in the past and not enough in the gift of today. And each day is a gift because we don’t know what tomorrow has in store for us.

It is our obligation, our duty and responsibility to live as though these were the best years of our lives because they are. The past helped us get here but tomorrow begins our future and today is the beginning of that tomorrow.

There are aches and pains. There are defeats and more defeats until we look ahead and realize that that is part of the journey of life. There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. There is the rainbow in all its beauty and splendor. If life was meant to be a walk in the park then we would be walking in the park referred to as the Garden of Eden. It is not reality.

Reality is that there is death, there is evil, there is hunger and disease. But there is hope. There is the hope of our involvement. There is the hope of our ability to lift the downtrodden with our spirit and our resources. We are not that old that we can’t lend a hand and show mercy and humility. Sometimes we go from crisis to crisis never thinking about the goodness is our lives. We just dig ourselves into an endless cycle of despair.

Sometimes we think that life is too much for us. We are older, we have more aches and pains and we see our friends slowly pass from our circle. Life certainly has burdens but there are also uplifting episodes such as births and anniversaries and all kinds of celebrations including the return of loved ones from battle.

Life is really simple. We make it difficult. We get angry over things that really don’t matter. We don’t talk to this one or that one because of something that was said that we don’t even remember.

As I watched the movie I was reminded of all that we endured as a nation, as individuals. And when the sun rose on a new day we knew that things would be different because we were different. Isn’t that what Rosh Hashanah represents? We endure the nightmares but we know that there is a tomorrow and that tomorrow can be better if we will it.

We humans are unique. Not only do we leave traces of who we were, but we also leave an understanding of what we have accomplished. True, sometimes events get ahead of us, but we are able to take advantage of time so that it has some relevance. After all, the purpose of our existence is to live life. And always remember that these are the “best years of our lives” because they are the only years of our lives. That is the true meaning of this season.

Goodbye, Or Farewell

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


It is so difficult to say goodbye. Thoughts of missed opportunities, of dreams that were never realized, of hurts that never mended, all come to the surface when someone close to us dies. And we don’t want to say goodbye because it is so final.

We try to find the words that will offer comfort. We attempt to rationalize the time allotted so that it has some meaning. We soothe our pain by thinking of an eternal reward only God can give.

More than that we seem to concentrate on our own mortality.

The Talmud attempts to offer some insight by stating that every man has three friends – his children, his money, and his good deeds. So when the time comes to leave this world he calls to his children who inform him that no one can conquer death. Next is his money: he cries out to his savings, asking them to save him, and the money replies that wealth cannot save you from death. Finally he calls on his good deeds, and they offer an understanding that upon his arrival in the world to come, his good deeds will precede him to offer help to his soul.

Saying goodbye has two aspects - that which we say to our friends and families and that which we say to ourselves. What we say to others conveys the regrets and wishes that were never fulfilled, the sorrows of a life that was filled with tragedies, and the joys that gave us laughter and happiness. To ourselves we often express feelings of guilt and remorse: Have we been a true friend or a loving companion? But we’re also thankful for having been part of that life.

While we say goodbye we know that it is not final. Each year we light a candle to remind us of that special relationship that continues. During the year we recite the Yizkor prayer to enable us to assist that soul in its journey and destination with the Creator who breathed life into us at the beginning.

In the final analysis, what we attempt to do in saying goodbye is to keep the memory alive, for that is the essence of immortality. Most of us will never have a monument erected to remind everyone of our sojourn here on Earth. Most of us will not have poems or sonnets written for future generations to read. But some will have a section of a piece of land dedicated to our sacred voyage. Some will be scattered to the winds confirming the eternalness of life.

And we search for answers to why: why we left so soon, why we suffered, why is death so final and life so temporary? In one instant we open our eyes and in the next they are closed – never to be opened again. We tend to forget that in between the opening and the closing is what we call life. And life is to live. Sometimes life is not fair. Sometimes life is a burden. Sometimes life is filled with too much sorrow and despair.

However, life also contains weddings and births and celebrations designed to help us appreciate the gift given to us by a caring and loving God. Life is what we make of it through great effort. Life is love and kissing and hugging. Life is being able to say hello before we say goodbye.

Living allows us to comprehend the beauty of creation through life’s continuing evolution. Just as creation is never ending, so is life. We move from one form to another but never to a final destination; rather, we are returned to our Creator to be reborn again. The earth may be filled with the remnants of who we once were, but the soul winds its way toward that heavenly connection and eventually is reunited with another creation as new life is formed.

We are immortal because eternity is the natural succession of our existence today. We are immortal because life never ends but takes different forms and finally returns as it was. We are immortal because memory remains the link between life and death. We are immortal because we are created in the Divine image and as God is forever so are we.

Saying goodbye is painful because we suffer a loss, and there is a void that seems irreplaceable. Saying goodbye seems so final. Perhaps that is why we should say farewell, not goodbye. Farewell doesn’t appear to be so decisive, giving us an opportunity to never forget.

The Kaddish prayer is designed to help us understand that while there is a loss, there is also thankfulness for that person having been part of our life and for us having had the opportunity to enjoy a lover, a friend, a confidant, a parent. The ability to share the journey of life is the blessing and will help us say goodbye, or farewell.

Farewell, Dennis Mellman.

The Same Picture

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Recently I watched a movie in which a man took 4000 pictures (photos) of the same street scene over a period of 4000 days. At first I thought about how strange this is. But after reviewing in my mind that particular scene I began to realize that even though the picture was of the same street scene the characters changed because different people walked in front of the camera.

What does this have to do with Rosh Hashanah – a lot! Year after year we offer the same prayers, request the same kindness from a caring and loving God, hope that our lives will be less complicated – we pray for peace and justice – and it seems that the picture remains the same – different characters appear in each snapshot of life, but basically we are the same as our ancestors before us and if we could fast forward we probably would see the same ahead.

Each year we read either the Akedah – the binding of Isaac or Genesis – the beginning of everything. They are really connected – one deals with obedience and sacrifice and the other with how we got to the point of understanding the need for duty and honor and destiny.

Abraham is asked to submit to the will of God and present his son Isaac as the ultimate offering of fealty. Can anyone here imagine answering such a call? If we know anything about who we are as a people, we surely accept the fact that we bend over backwards to offer our children the best that we can and attempt to shield them from harm and danger. We invented the “yiddisher momma.” We are the first to show pictures of our children and grandchildren ad nausea. Can anyone really believe that we would take our child and kill him or her in the name of God?

Well, neither could Abraham, and for that matter, Sarah – she dies soon after this encounter – not clear in her mind as to what was happening or why or how God, who so lovingly granted her wish for a child, would want to retake that which was given. So much has been written about this chapter and the opinions vary. But the one clear message, to me, is that while God may not really require such obedience, it is evident that our mind can suggest ways for us to exonerate ourselves from our misgivings and in so doing cast the burden on our progeny. We do it all the time – we scapegoat instead of taking responsibility – we blame others for our shortcomings.

And then there is the belief that we learn from this episode that we have a responsibility to a higher calling. And as we learn from the Ramban, we must understand that our conscience should be the deciding factor in our dealings with one another. We all have the potential to do good which rates higher that the actual deed.

The second reading suggested is Bereshit (as interpreted in the Etz Haim) – Genesis – the creation of existence as we know it. It emphasizes God’s role in history. It sets forth our views and values on civilization and how we deem it part and parcel of the religion of Israel. It describes God as wholly sufficient, independent of nature – the unchallenged sovereign of the world who is involved in human affairs – He is the God of history and He is the God of creation – the creation of the human spirit, and the two – God and the spirit of humanity are woven together to complete the event of creation.

The lesson we learn from the “Beginning” is that we are born with free will, moral responsibility and accountability. There is no free ride. If we wanted a free ride, God would have left us in the Garden. If, however, we want to be a partner with God in perfecting that which He put before us, then we need to accept the duty that is incumbent upon us.

On the one hand we are asked to make sacrifices and on the other we are asked to take responsibility – they are in fact connected – sometimes being responsible requires sacrifice.

Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur deal with acknowledgement and willingness – admitting that we are who we are and therefore must answer for our actions and eager to submit to the task of saying we are sorry.

And, God doesn’t really want us to complete the deed – just make the attempt. Maybe then we won’t be so hard on ourselves and our supplications and contrition will have meaning for us.

Yes, it is the same picture year after year, but while the scenery doesn’t change, the people in the foreground do – each new generation seeking to find the answer – each generation seeking the understanding of God.

A rabbi, wishing to instruct a small boy on God’s ability to be everywhere, said to the boy:
“Show me every place that God is, and I will give you a penny.”
“Rabbi,” answered the boy, with the insight of youth, “show me any place that God isn’t, and I will give you two pennies.”

Is there a better answer?

Israel - The Future

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


At this time of the year, the time for observance of the High Holidays, our thoughts revolve around what was, what is, and what will be. And just as much thought is given to a place that has been in our hearts, Israel. We speak to God about the past and we beseech God about the future. This is a time for great contemplation about our place in the world and the contributions we have made for the betterment of the human experience.

There is a Yiddish folk saying that goes: “You have chosen us from among all the nations. Why, O Lord? What did you have against us?” Sometimes we wonder what all the fuss is about – this “chosen” business. Everyone calls us the “chosen people” and just as many want to undo what has been ordained. Is it jealousy? Perhaps. But the real culprit is the interpretation. We were chosen to deliver a message and to do so requires a place from which to accomplish this. That place is Israel, the Holy Land, the place designated to deliver the Holy message of God.

Whether you believe in the theory of the “Promised Land” is immaterial. The important thing to remember is that our people settled that land over three thousand years ago. That’s right, not yesterday, or two centuries ago, or even two millennium ago. We were chased and scattered all over the world for two thousand years, and finally, 60 years ago we returned with the vow never to be separated again.

David Ben-Gurion once stated that building a State means for us a return to the soil. We found hundreds of Arab villages but we did not take them away. We established hundreds of new Jewish villages bought with Jewish National Fund monies. We didn’t merely buy the land, we re-created the land. Hundreds of Jews died of malaria in the swamps and those that survived refused to leave until it was made healthy. With our toil, our sweat, and with an abundance of love we remade and are remaking the soil to enable all to settle there, not at the expense of anyone else. Anyone who has visited Israel (only 20% of American Jewry) can attest to a barren land made to flourish, cities that now reach heights of modernity. We have made contributions to humankind never dreamed possible that now enable people to live a better life.

We could repeat over and over again the virtues of a people so devoted to a land, a place, an ideal, and not repeat ourselves once. But there are forces that exist both covertly and overtly that would do everything to undermine the truth of who we are and what the Land of Israel means to us. Even to the extent of trying to re-write history.

A while ago there were a series of programs presented by CNN – a news media that does not hide its bias against Israel. The program was titled “God’s Warriors.” It was supposed to illustrate the fringes of all three religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Critics have already highlighted the programs multiple distortions, questionable experts and troubling bias regarding Judaism. The crux of the presentation regarding Judaism had nothing to do with Judaism but was used to denounce the settlements and their so-called impediment to a lasting Middle East peace. Can anyone in their right mind believe that this is the root of all the turmoil?

Before 1967 there were no settlements, but still the Arabs lived in poverty with no relief from their brothers in other Arab lands. Terrorists bombed Israel; Arab children had explosives strapped to their little bodies and were martyred by their people. Now their mother's have replaced them. There is nothing new here.

What is new is the suggestion that America’s ills are tied to this issue; that September 11, 2001 is a direct result of this issue; that the reign of terror visited on the whole world is a result of this issue; that terror organizations such as Hezbollah, PLO, Hamas, etc. are a result of this issue.

The program insisted that the Israel lobby controls America; that American Jews have dual loyalties; that the Jews are the cause of all the ills in the world. On and on we hear the same old tales with different twists. Never was it mentioned that Islam has declared war on the world – first the Saturday observers and then the Sunday observers.

In a new book by two distinguished professors, John Mearsheimer of the University of Chicago and Stephen Walt of Harvard wrote that Israel and America share common values. They portray Israel as an aggressor nation constantly threatening its neighbors and brutalizing the Palestinians and that the main reason America is the target of terrorists is because of its support for Israel. Even a past president of these United States espouses this theory and goes even further only because of his receipt of monies from Arab entities.

It is important for us to remember who we are. We need to understand who “they” are.
Not because we seek revenge but rather because we must safeguard our very lives from those who wish to destroy us. But as God has promised and fulfilled time and again –“those who curse you will themselves be cursed.”

Our dreams are the fabric that keep us from disappearing as have so many other civilizations. Centuries of wandering never dimmed our hope. Centuries of despair never diminished our faith. Centuries of pogroms, destruction and dispersion, never caused us to abandon our rightful place among the peoples of the earth. And no power, save that of the All powerful will cause this people to relinquish its rightful claim. The world needs to know and understand that this people are connected to that land now and forever.

Israel has endured; the Jewish people and the world are witness to the reclamation. If Israel is not successful how long before everyone endures the same fate? If Israel loses its land the world will lose its soul.

What can we do? Quite simply, as we approach the High Holiday season, continue to support Israel thus ensuring our destiny. We need to walk the ground that our ancestors walked; listen to the call of the ages as the Prophets once did; ensure the continuity of the generations. And pray that the children of Abraham, all of them, will find comfort with one another so that peace can be secured. Maybe then we will not have to wonder why God “chose” us. It will be evident.

A Spiritual New Year

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


The New Year we are about to celebrate affords us the opportunity to pause and reflect and even contemplate. So much has happened in one year. Lives are lost, births are recorded and in between we travel into unknown areas – places we haven’t been to before. There is excitement as well as hesitation – a fear of the unknown.

A New Year also gives us time to rededicate our spiritual selves. It is a time to think about relationships, missed opportunities. We know that bonding and connecting help us make life livable and rewarding. Our lives are cemented by love and understanding with friends, family and sweethearts.

Even when we lose a loved one, we somehow, through the experience of this season, find comfort and courage. One day we wrote the name of someone we held dear on the sands of time and then it was washed away. Some are fortunate to be able to write a new name and just as many never seem to find the energy or the desire to write again. All this becomes part of the experience of our spiritual journey.

This time of the year seems to produce melancholy and despondency. Instead of rejoicing as another years rolls around we concentrate on what was and we tend to go through the motions of gladness. We should remember that just as the trees shed their leaves in the winter and sleep, we too go through certain emptiness. But then comes spring and summer and a time of re-birth. – and all is right. Even those of us who lost our true love or a loving parent or a child, have memories – but those memories should sustain us and give us renewed strength. Life goes on and we owe it to ourselves and those left behind to continue because life is to live even as we mourn.

A New Year enables us to garner our strength and bring a new sense of purpose to our existence. A New Year connects us to life as we remember the past. A New Year helps us understand the beauty of life, while not forgetting those who are no longer a part of everyday living.

A New Year endows us with ability understand that time is a healer and our best friend in the entire world is God. A New Year should teach us that doing evil to another human being is worse than doing evil to God.

Sometimes we find it so difficult to fathom God and our place in the universe. We become so cynical because of all that happens or doesn’t happen. It is ironic that people of faith sometimes lose that faith. It is so difficult to remember that we have so much to be thankful for – family, friends – more importantly – life! Instead we look for scapegoats for our sometimes self-inflicted misery. We seem to be so sure that God is nowhere to be found because there is so much ugliness. How can there be a God and also such agony? We constantly blame God for our misfortune and all the while we create such unhappiness by not allowing love to be part of our daily experience.

God is here! God is everywhere! All we have to do is look around us to see the beauty of nature, or the birth of a child, or the colors of the rainbow, the breathtaking view of the horizon as the sun rises and sets. Just watch a bird soar through the sky and know that God is there to lift us to greater heights of ecstasy through intimacy and sharing.

We should be reminded that we need to learn and reflect to the best of our capacity, and when we reach a point where we are unable to make sense of life, we should supplant understanding with faith. We must have faith in tomorrow and our ability to meet each day with joy and thankfulness. And just when we think we have lost all faith and seem to have been abandoned by God, we should love God even more. We do no less for a friend or family member – we have unconditional love for a child – how much more so for God who gave us the ability to love so completely.

Perhaps, at this beginning of a New Year we should reinforce our belief in the Creator who created us and is a guide to all creatures, that He alone makes and will make everything – that He is unique and only he is God – who was, who is and who will always be.

Perhaps we will awaken in us the faith needed to comprehend this time and what it can offer us so that we will face tomorrow with greater anticipation. After all this is a time of faith and healing and dreaming. This is what a New Year is all about. And dreams do come true if you believe.

Retire From Jobs, Not From Life

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


There is a segment of the population that now finds itself in a different situation. Namely retirement.

The generation of retirement age, for the most part, is settled. Many have done their share over the years: raised a family, supported charitable endeavors, involvement in community activities. And now there are the twilight years.

It is not that simple. As an example: We must remain part of our community because when the need arises for civic pride and neighborly support, we will turn to each other for the comfort that comes with such participation.

Retirement from life is not part of the equation of settling in. Birth, we know, is a beginning and death a destination; but life, well that is a journey, a continuous journey with each stage in our development.

We travel this journey from the beginning, through our childhood and hopefully to maturity. Part of that journey includes an awareness and discretion and hopefully wisdom. And just as there are speed bumps on the highways of our travels so too life has its twists and turns that can bring weakness and despair. But these bumps, these detours should remind us to slow down and sense all that is around us.

There is victory along the way because we take the time to realize that this journey of life is also a sacred pilgrimage. There is defeat but there is also the start of a new day with all its wonders and mysteries. And we should approach these experiences with renewed strength.

We represent a generation that was in the forefront of human decency. We took our responsibilities seriously by nurturing those institutions representing the dignity of the human spirit. Sometimes, though, we forget.

We forget, as well, that there is this great country called America. Some say that it doesn’t need as much from us as it once did. The truth of the matter is

America needs our involvement more than ever. We need this connection as we did in the past.

We are a faith-based people. And because we are we have an added responsibility to ensure that the generations that follow understand that the very fabric of our existence is woven into our relationship with the Divine.

We forget how fragile our society is. We need to repair this tear in the world because we need the world and the world needs us.

Recent events should help us understand that the past brought us to today. Being settled in gives us added responsibilities. They include continuing to do and encouraging everyone else to do as well. We may be tired but we cannot rest.

When we feel threatened we are calmed with the knowledge that our community will respond. When we pray, we connect to God. When we do good things, we connect to one another. We cannot retire from life.

A story is told of a time and place where people could not bend their arms. Because of this they could not lift food to their mouths. Slowly, but surely, people died from the lack of nourishment. Then one person discovered that if he reached for the food with his outstretched arm he could carry the food and feed another person until one by one all realized that carrying the food and feeding each other was the formula for survival.

This is the message of respect for the sanctity of life and our sacred obligation to lend a helping hand to everyone in need. Retirement does not relieve us of this obligation. We cannot retire from life.

Deeds and Actions

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Each year, during the summer, I begin to think about the High Holidays that follow in the fall. Somehow my year is centered on holidays and not everyday happenings. During each celebration I begin to concentrate on the next holiday and then before I realize it the year has passed.

This year is no exception. Summer is here and my efforts are devoted to preparing for the ultimate season – the season of introspection and renewal – the High Holidays.

I am reminded of a story about the Ba’al Shem Tov and how one day during class he dwelt on the subject of preaching, emphasizing that an effective rabbi is one who delivers sermons in which lessons will be learned and life’s meaning revealed.

After the class, the Great Sage approached one of his students and extended and invitation to him to accompany the rabbi as he traveled and preached. The student was overjoyed. To preach with the Master – how wonderful! What an opportunity!

They set out on their journey, and along the way, the rabbi stopped at the home of a widow. The rabbi and his student chopped wood for the elderly woman and took care of her livestock. As they left the grateful woman, the student asked his rabbi why he had not preached to her? The Ba’al Shem Tov told his student not to worry.

Continuing on, they stopped in a village to visit another congregant. They found the person lying in bed, sick, unable to fend for himself. Again the rabbi and his student did chores. They prepared food for the ailing man and even fed him. And again, as they left, the student asked why his rabbi had not preached? And again, the Ba’al Shem Tov assured his student that there was no cause for concern.

At the end of a full day, after the good rabbi and his student had tended to many others in need, the frustration was even more prominent. Again the student questioned why there had been no preaching? Finally, the Ba’al Shem Tov gently admonished, “What do you think we have been doing all day?”

This story illustrates the thoughts that run through my mind each year at this time. The deeds, not the words really matter. The magic of good deeds and the value of actions far outweigh any words that may be spoken. And yet we cannot be expected to perform these acts of loving-kindness if we are not prodded by words. So if words lead to action then preaching is important.

That is precisely what the High Holiday season is designed to accomplish. We are steered through a process that enables us to understand the meaning of the words. We are encouraged to participate in an effort that can and should lead to personal satisfaction. We are elevated to a level of sanctification unimaginable because we can reach such a place. We are able to make holiness a reality because of our desire to be good and noble. We can concentrate on feeling good about ourselves because we are good and this time allows us to say so. We can do all these things and more because collectively we gather our thoughts and express them aloud in prayer and meditation.

We start with Selichot – a time set aside to begin the process of self-examination. We travel to Rosh Hashanah – a time to search our inner being; to bring to the surface those attributes which allow us a moment of blessing. We move to Yom Kippur – a time to sort the past from the present as we prepare for the future. And we listen to the sound of Shofar – the piercing sound of a call to action. And we are cleansed and know that we have been successful in our quest for acceptance.

But the day after is the most important part of this season: Understanding what was said through prayer and supplication. Expressions that need to be translated into deeds and actions. Charity needs to be dispensed. Participation in worthwhile endeavors. Reunion of family. Forgiveness of ill spoken words. Remembering milestone celebrations. Simple expression of love. All these things can bring us the salvation we search for during this period and beyond.

Perhaps it is too much to expect of ourselves. Perhaps we are not capable of accomplishing all these things. Not to worry. There is always tomorrow. And that is what this time allows us: The opportunity to be what we think we should be and then to keep trying even when our failings remind us of our fallibility.

Yes, the summer is here. The season of our elevation to impossible heights is around the corner. Now is the time to think about deeds and actions.

A Spiritual Journey

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Spirituality incorporates character and responsibility. Spirituality includes a partnership with God that requires confrontation, not acceptance. We are required to question God because to do so enables us to understand the meaning of life. That is why we are called Israel: we struggle with the notion of God and are determined to comprehend the true essence of our relationship.

What is it that we question? Primarily we are concerned with the existence of evil. There has always been evil. There will always be evil. That is the eternal quest: to understand why there is evil and the part it plays in the elaborate road map called creation.

We are also romantics, always thinking that good will be the ultimate victor. The Psalmist and the Prophets talk about the time when all will be right with the world, and yet we, their progeny, are still grappling with the notion of right defeating might. We spend too much time on why and not enough on what.

It is not so important to analyze evil, but rather to accept that it exists and that there are times when the slate has to be made clean and a new beginning is necessary. And occasionally we regret having been part of the wickedness.

So the lesson here is that while we sometimes may feel righteous indignation, we cannot fully determine our role until we understand that we must try to be the best we are capable of being and that a partnership with God requires us to be a community of people concerned with survival. Our survival depends upon our relationship with each other and the word Tzibur (community) is derived from three (3) words: Tzadik, righteousness; Benoni, average; Rasha, evildoer. That is what makes a community: the presence of all three, good, bad and the in between.

And we need to take responsibility for our actions. Not be like Adam, when confronted by God about eating from the Tree of Knowledge, against God’s wishes, argues that he is blameless. “The woman made me do it.”

Not taking responsibility is contrary to the concept of Pekuach Nefesh (the respect for life). Not speaking out when we witness injustice is contrary to Pekuach Nefesh. We are responsible for each other and we need to be concerned about all that is around us because we cannot exist alone. If we are truly partners with God then we are obligated to act as a true partner, not as a passive accepting and fate filled participant.

That has been the calling of the Jewish people: to be guardians, promoters and messengers. We have been in the forefront of civil rights, unions, and anything that helps people live with dignity. We establish Chevra Kadishas (Burial Societies), Gemilut Hesed programs (Benevolent Societies), and Synagogues (Places of Learning) to enable humanity the ability to be productive and caring which is the hallmark of a reliable partnership with God.

We have a duty to follow the dictates of the pronouncement found in the Talmud that saving one person is tantamount to saving the entire world. We cannot be selfish and look only after ourselves. We must take a broader approach to ensure that life, as we know it, will continue. That is what partnership is all about. That is what Pekuach Nefesh is all about. We were created in the divine image and with that creation God has accomplished one part of the equation of partnership. Our effort should be the completion of the partnership: the survival of humanity, the survival of our planet.

If you think about it – it truly is a spiritual journey.

What's In A Name

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

I was amused recently while reading an article about faith in America. The article dealt mainly with the Christian response to God and the many ways of participating in prayers and acknowledgment of God’s goodness and greatness. One of the points made was that there are four (4) Gods: Authoritarian, Benevolent, Critical, and Distant. Each represented the perception people have about God and the part He plays in their daily lives, or not.

What amused me is that we also have different names for God: Shalom, Adonai, Elohim, and Shadai – in fact the Kabbalists insist that there are seven names for God. Each one of these names has a distinct meaning and purpose. Each name represents our human understanding of God. Interestingly enough though, we really never think in those terms (God’s different names) and think only of the name God.

It certainly is a subject for classroom discussion, even for Shabbat afternoon study. It certainly is not a subject that rears its head anytime we attempt to communicate with God whether in the synagogue or in our home or on a trip. It is difficult enough just to think about God as we entreat or supplicate ourselves or make requests that even we know are impossible to grant.

Well, that is what Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, which we will be celebrating shortly, are all about: to concentrate on our relationship with one another and with God. Sometimes we find it hard to even imagine God let alone wonder about His existence and participation in our lives. We see so much evil and death and destruction and we begin to wonder if there is a God. We have difficulties in our lives that seem to be insurmountable and we question the value of prayer. We may not be tested like Job but we go through episodes that make us feel as though we are being tested or cursed.

There is no question that understanding the essence of God is so difficult that we surely put it out of our minds and go through the motions during this time of the year. There is something pulling us closer and yet we feel so distant. We wonder about the future all the while frightened by the present. As we age we want to appreciate the traditions and the symbols but we are trapped in our habits and we don’t want to try new ideas or broaden our scope of insight into new vistas.

That is the beauty of these days – it doesn’t matter whether we understand the meaning of God or the various names or the various meanings of these names. After all, in the final analysis, who can really fathom such notions? Our minds can never truly comprehend the vastness of it all. We know one thing – God is faith. God is the strength we garner to meet another day. God is the calm before and after the storms of life.

Whether God has four (4) names or seven (7) or even more is not important in participating in an experience which is unique.

God is a spirit, an idea. God is happiness and sorrow. God is children and grandchildren. God is love and hate. God is not a name but a thought, an expression of hope. God is what we make of our life and how we live it. God is facing the challenges that confront us and looking for that silver lining.

Yes, it is difficult to think of God. And yet, when things look bleak and trouble is at our doorstep, we do reach out and hope that the hand that lifts us from these trying times will be the hand of God. It is and can be – because God is in each of us and, as we reach out to lift someone from the depths that is God holding our hand, keeping it steady so that we are able to fulfill the dream of salvation and redemption.

The sum total of who we are can be found in the partnership that evolves so that a kiss or a smile, or a touch, or even a prayer, ennobles us and we are at one with God. The difficulty we have is knowing that we can act, we can find a place for ourselves, and we will remember that there are others around us who cry and laugh and are traveling the same road in search of meaning.

We utter prayers to fashion good from bad, to take reality into the sublime, to shape a blessing from nothingness, to sympathize, to eliminate hopelessness, to gain insight so that we can visualize the signs that are right in front of us, to be able to live our lives as they were meant to be lived – with trust and hope and caring.

All these thoughts enable us to understand all the names we use for God. The holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur help us understand that God, by any name, is there – all we need do is extend our hand.

May God find favor in our acts as we comprehend what the Prophets knew when they proclaimed that God wants us to be good as He is good, to be merciful as He is merciful, to deal justly as He deals justly – and to do all this with each other more than anything else we can do or say – and by whatever name you choose.

Is There A Jewish Future?

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

In a recent edition of the Jewish Voice and Opinion there is an article written by Catriel Sugarman, a researcher on Jewish issues, social critic and lecturer. The premise of his article titled “A Baker’s Dozen Predictions Based on Demographic Destiny”, is that Judaism, as practiced or not practiced in America, is doomed as is the Jewish People.

He then goes into the distinction between Orthodoxy, Conservatism, and Reform, occasionally injecting Recontructionism as well. His understanding of the demographics and their meaning is that in our lifetime it is conceivable that there will either remain Orthodoxy as the savior of the Jewish People because there would be a decrease in population and adherents by 2076, or at least very little growth. This means that whatever influence we have will also disappear and we will be a footnote in history.

He gives many reasons as to why this will happen. For example, the liberalism expressed by Reform Judaism will eventually dilute the essence of who we are. While Reform Judaism seems to be taking a turn to the right, it is not enough to stem the tide. Conservative Judaism has lost its meaning and with it the path as the middle man so to speak, thus the wedge between Orthodoxy and Reform. Orthodox Judaism, on the other hand, while it has some deficiencies, is the only answer to the salvation of the Jewish People because of its devotion to true observance.

This is most certainly a summary, as I understand the article, of his diatribe against anything and everything that does not contain complete observance of “pure” Judaism.

He writes some things that are worthy of discussion and concern. He alludes to a study made by Messrs Gordon and Horowitz (authors of “Will Your Grandchildren Be Jews’) that argues: “On the average, 100 Conservative Jews will have 29 Jewish great-grandchildren; 100 Reform Jews will have 10 Jewish great-grandchildren; and 100 “unaffiliated” Jews will have 7 great-grandchildren.” On the other hand, he continues, “100 ‘Modern Orthodox’ Jews will have, on average, 346 Jewish great-grandchildren and 100 ‘Orthodox’ will produce 2588 Jewish great-grandchildren.”

These are startling comments on the survival of the Jewish People in America. A professor of mine once said in class that figures never lie but liars figure. Not that I am calling Catriel Sugarman a liar, but the numbers game has been played throughout the history of the Jewish People. Each generation has announced doomsday and each generation has remained to give birth to the next.

Maimonides comes to mind and why he wrote his thirteen articles of faith. He wrote them for no other reason then to convince the authorities of his time that he was not a heretic or a disbeliever.

Spinoza was ostracized for his modern thinking, challenging everything and everyone. Anytime someone dared to stray from the accepted norm he was ridiculed and now we revere their thinking and their contributions to Jewish development.

I am reminded of a parable given by the Dubno Maggid in which he describes two types of people. One “attempts to clarify the reasons behind the mitzvot? That person truly fears Heaven and wishes to improve his performance of mitzvot by understanding their reasons. The second, however, wishes only to discover a flaw in the mitzvot. To such a person we do not respond, for he will only look for ways to discover new flaws.”

Perhaps the doomsday reference is meant to instill in us the need for stricter observance as only Modern Orthodoxy or Orthodoxy is capable of doing. Perhaps it is through fear that we are to subscribe to a mode of conduct that will be our saving grace. We know that fundamentalism, in any form, is designed to exact obedience through fear. Perhaps it is the fear, on the fundamentalists’ part, that continuity can remain strong without their tactics because one thing that Judaism teaches above all else is the understanding that we were given choice with the advent of Creation. Adam and Eve were exiled because they chose their destiny, the fear of repercussions not withstanding.

I, for one, am tired of reading and listening to those who would suggest our demise. Even the Talmud tells us as Rabbi Eleazar taught: “A person should bend like a reed, and not be hard like a cedar.” The essence of that teaching is that there is no single approach to survival or salvation but rather the insistence that we continue to search for answers that will have meaning in our lives. And if that means experimenting with our faith and traditions so that there will be continuity, then we will have fulfilled our inherited obligation.

We are not called Israel because it sounds good but because our lives are entwined with the Creator and this demands constant questioning and, yes, even arguing as did Abraham and Moses and the Prophets.

We are a resilient people. We have endured disasters and predictions of our impending demise, but we are here; we will always be here and not because we must or should adhere to a particular thought or concept but because our endurance is guaranteed by the highest authority. We may be tested time and again, but we are still able to walk tall, to witness rebirth after death.

On a particular holiday or Shabbat we may not always see baby carriages or young people congregating at the doors of our synagogues, but that doesn’t mean that they are not there. We are a unique people who may not be there every time, but we will be there when it counts.

Our influence will remain, contrary to the writer’s evaluation, because as Micah so aptly said, “What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God.” Perhaps that is what the unaffiliated are trying to tell us: Labels are meaningless because goodness needs no name.

Yes, there is a future. And from where I sit, it looks pretty good. And it does not depend on one method of observance or one thought or one person. It is all of us joining together to guarantee that future, Reform, Orthodox, Conservative, Reconstructionist, unaffiliated. Maybe, just maybe, if we joined together and learned together and respected each other, then our future will be secure because of diversity not sameness. That’s how we got here to begin with.

Politically Incorect

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


It is politically incorrect to point a finger at people who were subjected to inhuman treatment for over 200 years, people who were slaves and did the “master’s” bidding. They were taken from their homes on distant shores and used for forced labor. A Civil War was fought to right the wrong, to emancipate those of darker skin so that they would be able to find their destiny and create a new beginning borne from the ashes of indifference and hatred.

We excuse remarks such as “god-damn America,” and the riots that occurred at the passing of a world class leader who preached non-violence only to see such violence when he was murdered. We turn the other cheek when people are brought to a frenzy as they were in the early years of the civil rights movement because we felt an obligation and a guilt for having been part of this heinous crime against humanity.

And we would be correct, politically or otherwise, to make every accommodation so that equality can be achieved, if not in our lifetime, then for the generations that follow. And we have made great strides to accomplish this.

But there are those who try to keep the fires of hate burning because, either it is not happening fast enough or it causes a diversion for self interest and notoriety.

There is so much hate and so much anger that sits smoldering beneath the surface and can erupt at anytime and we lose sight of the greater goal, the big picture of concern for the welfare of all. We seem to be willing to sacrifice the good of the whole for the satisfaction of a few. Perhaps through hate and scapegoating it is felt that justice will be served albeit at the cost of so much advancement.

Fingers are pointed at other minorities in the misguided notion that finding others to blame, others who appear to be weaker and fewer, that justice will be served. Sure there have been mistakes from all sides but mayhem and vitriolic pronouncements are not the path to freedom but rather to division and damage that may become irreparable. Is this the way to become one nation?

Certain claims have been made suggesting the campaign for president of the United States of America has become a contest between white and black. Race, although found beneath the surface has reared its ugly head and become the focal point of the campaign.

The issues which divide us, the Iraq war, the economy, the stability of a workforce that has been diminished – all these things that are necessary for a healthy and vibrant country to maintain growth and vitality are missing from the debate. There is anunderlying distrust of everything we hold dear as a nation. Government, instead of caring for its citizens, seems to be oblivious to its pain. Government which was instituted to ensure domestic tranquility has turned a blind eye to the unrest and divisiveness.

Hatred, religious hatred, has surfaced again as a means to an end. Jews are starting to feel the pain of a resurgent anti-Semitism that has not seen this much activity since World War II. Europe and the Middle East are hotbeds of this resurgence of hostility toward a particular people.

Not found in the main stream press are incidents of bombings and desecrations and intimidations from England to France and even here in the United States.

For two thousand years we too have been subjected to indifference and degradation and humiliation. We too were dispersed to the four corners of the Earth and watched as millions died for no other reason than their belief system. We too empathize with those in this country still suffering from the nightmare of injustice. We too have been in the forefront of every movement designed to eliminate the demons of yesterday.

So when insults and accusations are directed toward us we quiver because we know only too well the results of bigotry. Is it politically incorrect to address these issues? Is it politically incorrect to point an accusing finger at those who would try to get to the top over our backs? Is it politically incorrect to denounce those who would destroy us, African American or Muslim? Is it politically incorrect to ask for insight and repair so that together we can conquer all the evil that exists?

One thing is for sure – “politically incorrect” is a form of censorship and why, in this land of freedom, must we feel inhibited to speak our mind in a constructive way so that all may benefit from the conversation? Why should we feel guilty about something that began hundreds of years ago and ended so very long ago; and even when slavery ended officially, equal treatment was not forthcoming for decades, some would say even a century later. Should we continue to feel guilty? Maybe, maybe not. Should we continue to remind humanity of its inhumanity? Yes. We know that appeasement never works. History has taught us this lesson. Therefore all of us should join together to combat all injustice – not just in one segment of our society, but in all of society.

Thinking that we can achieve victory by criticizing others is mistaken. History and religious teachings entrust us with the obligation of loving our neighbor as we too want to be loved. Is it so hard to reach out and touch someone – a stranger as well as a friend or relative? When God created man and woman– he created one man and one woman to instruct us in the understanding that no one is better than the other because we are all from one mother and one father – the mother and father of us all.

Is it politically incorrect to tell it like it is regardless of color or race or religion? No it is not because, if we speak the truth, then no harm can come to any of us. To see this country divided by color or ethnic background is to undo all that the founding fathers intended – “one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all.”

Crisis of Faith

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

As time goes by we seem to wonder, more deeply, about life, our fallibility and our mortality. This occurs more and more as we begin to feel more vulnerable. When we were younger we would laugh at older people talking about their ills and now we are the ones who have taken their place.

Some of us do go through questions about our understanding of our connection to God. Some of us do think that some of the customs and rituals associated with our faith are just mumbo-jumbo – a collection of words and rituals that hold no significance to our lives today. We repeat them because we have done so for so long. And there are some of us who realize that we are not alone on this planet; that we need to get along for survival, if nothing else.

I was amused at the commotion made a while ago about the revelation that Mother Teresa, through her writings, expressed serious doubts about her faith and relationship with God. Darkness seemed to be everywhere and when she cried out to her savior to answer her prayers, there seemed to be nobody there.

Crisis of faith-Sometimes in our zeal to find solutions to problems, we become frustrated because the solutions seem remote. I would suggest that our expectations are unrealistic.

Crisis of faith-There are certain givens – poverty will always exist. Our job is not to eliminate, but relieve.

Crisis of faith-Illness is part of the journey of life and our wishes for complete health may not be within the realm of possibility. So our responsibility lies in trying to cope.

Crisis of faith-Evil is part of the equation that relates to existence and co-existence, therefore our hope is not to eradicate evil because it will upset the balance. Our emphasis should be to endeavor to minimize it so that life can have a decent quality to it.

Mother Teresa was no exception when she decided to question our very being and the ability to make a difference. Those who work in the vineyard of care and concern will always go through doubts because there is so much despair and gloom. We question the very existence of God as we witness so much agony. It is not surprising that she felt the pangs of doubt.

Perhaps she was overwhelmed after awhile and, instead of remembering all the good she accomplished, she thought of all that is yet to be done. Sometimes when I visit the sick or dying, I too question but then realize that my function is not to cure but to console – not eliminate the misery but to comfort those who are experiencing the nightmare of everyday living or the expectation of dying. I believe, in her zeal to accomplish the impossible, she lost sight of the true meaning of faith: The ability to transfer the pain, to express sorrow and regret, to afford each one of us the opportunity to pray for that is the essence of the comfort that God gives us in times of turbulence

Even the mumbo-jumbo, as some call it, the prayers and rituals are designed to give us the added ability to connect and give voice to our frustrations. And most of us know that we need to connect, more than religiously, in the framework of humanities survival. We need to study the liturgy and look for the significance that can make a difference.

We should think. We should question. We can even doubt. If answers were simple we would still be prancing around in the Garden of Eden without a care in the world. But God did not create us to wander aimlessly – but rather with a purpose that includes rituals and connections and even crises of faith. As we continue on this journey of life, we should understand that we have a lot to be grateful for and also a lot to repent for.

We thank God for all sorts of things – for breath – for sight – for smell – for touch, not that we can create miracles by beseeching God to undo that which is done ( the loss of any of these) but rather to give us the insight into finding cures.

And then we ask God to hear our prayers – listen to us as we endeavor to create an atmosphere of communication. And, as Mother Teresa was noted to say – we may not always hear the answer but that doesn’t relieve us of the obligation to continue to dialogue or search for the answer or embark on that journey – the journey that will increase our faith – not diminish it.

To some it may be mumbo-jumbo and to others an expression of contrition – an offering of ourselves to find the relevance and significance so that our lives do have meaning.

No Straight Path to God

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.


Scripture is filled with religious understanding of God and Israel and God and the world. It brings God into a universal setting and enables the Children of Israel to fully comprehend their mission: to teach the oneness of God and the part that God plays in the life that was created.

There is no absolute proof of the existence of God. Judaism teaches that God has provided enough clues. However, each of us must arrive at a conclusion ourselves. For example: the incident of the Golden Calf is part of that process. While we cannot see, we still yearn to find something tangible to cling to.

Jews have always questioned the reality of God, not because they doubted, but rather to relate to the purpose of creation and our place in the unending evolution of humanity's journey from birth to death. That is why we are called Israel-one who struggles with God. We question because that is our obligation. We don't accept blindly. We need and want to know exactly who is calling us and why.

It is not hard to deny the absoluteness of God. There is war and killing. There is famine and desolation. There is crime and tragedy. There is sickness and despair. Innocent people die, and evil people don't.

And yet, we have understood from the lesson of the Golden Calf that it is not hard to believe. There is beauty and nature. There is orderliness and seasons. There is complexity and simplicity. There is the ability to create and enjoy what has been created. There is the capacity to love and be loved.

Creation contains all these ingredients of life. It consists of birds that fly, trees that bloom, bodies that incorporate the most complex system of veins and vessels and limbs and organs. It contains birth and death and the journey that is in between. It involves thinking and reasoning and conclusions.

Faith is not easy. Our inclination is to doubt. Imagine: during the Exodus from slavery in Egypt the people witnessed wonders and signs and redemption and freedom. And yet there was doubt. Did anyone beside Moses talk to God? Has anyone beside Moses seen even a glimpse of God's magnificence?

The people of Israel had to learn that faith requires listening and hearing and seeing and touching and feeling. We accomplish this through prayer and deed. We reason with God by questioning our need for relationships. We see God through our connection with one another. We can't have a feeling for God if we don't have a concept of togetherness.

And then there is the question of evil. How do we reconcile evil and God? Why would God put evil and temptation, the temptation of the Golden Calf, in front of us if the intention was to bring the harmony of heaven to Earth?

I would suggest that we ask the wrong questions. We should not be asking why or what or where. We should ask how - how do we, humankind, relieve the suffering and the misery and the pain?

God created us to enhance the creation process. We can dance around idols - the idols of indifference, the idols of intolerance, the idols of callousness - but we must conclude that just as we continue, so does creation and our Creator. God knows we make mistakes but also hopes that we will make the right choices.

Our participation in the journey of independence begins with the census of the people because the ultimate test will be who stands for those attributes that will guarantee our survival. The message is quite clear: God does not need slogans. God doesn't need arrogance of thought or suppression of ideas. God does need for us to remember our origin, our foibles and our potential.

There is no straight path to God. And we will encounter detours and bumps in the road. Labels are not the answer to finding God; images such as a Golden Calf certainly will not bring us closer to our final destination. What we need is sincerity of purpose and the realization that as we are different, so is the voyage as we continue to seek unity with God.






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