A month and three days from now, I will have officially completed my first semester of Rabbinical School. I'll have gained knowledge of Biblical Hebrew Grammar, increased my Hebrew vocabulary, and developed fluency in prayers of the Morning Service and understanding of an overall structure of Jewish Liturgy. I'll have increased my reading and comprehension skills in modern and Biblical texts, learned the skills of trope (Torah Cantillation), be able to share with you an overview of the themes and patterns of Jewish history that led to the creation of the State of Israel, and articulate contemporary issues within Israel and Reform Judaism.
Sounds like I can become a Rabbi now, right? Not quite. All of the courses that I am taking this year (and will continue to take, with the exception of Modern Jewish History and Bible, which will be replaced by Contemporary Middle East and Rabbinics) are only a mere introduction to what I will be learning over the next four years. Nonetheless, it will be pretty cool to say at the end of the semester that I not only learned something new, but I know more than I did when I arrived in June.
In addition, Israel is starting to grow on me. Let me premise this statement though by saying that there are many things about the United States that I miss and I look forward to having those "luxuries" when I return, and Israel will always be "foreign" to me, but the things that were difficult to cope with at first no longer seem to bother me. While there will always be a language barrier, its nice to be able to communicate more efficiently with people. My grammar continues to need work, but I have enough vocabulary now for most situations. And since most people speak English, I am able to squeeze in a couple English words to get the message. But, the point is - I can get what I want and go where I want to go. I look at Hebrew signs and I don't look at it as a foreign language that I am unfamiliar with. I walk on the streets of Israel and "act" Israeli - meaning I am as aggressive as everyone else is when it comes to lines, getting someone's attention, or just simply walking across the street. It's a weird thing for one to comprehend, but trust me, I'm beginning to feel more comfortable here.
Last week, our class went on a tiyul (class trip) to Northern Israel. We began our trip in Caesaria, which as you probably can figure out, was a Roman influenced city (named after Caesar Augustus) build by Herod. It was a port city and very modern for its time. Very little places in Israel have mosaic or tile floors, and Caesaria is one of them. The structures apparently are reminiscent of those in Sicily, Italy. It is also the place where Rabbi Akiva, once of the most well-known Rabbis of the Talmud, was killed.
We then travelled to Tsippori, the place where the Talmud was actually written. There were two AMAZING mosaics that we saw that depicted the Greek cultural influence. One of the mosaics was located in the Ancient Synagogue, where you saw depictions of Biblical stories and a Zodaic in the center, suggesting a Greek influence on Jewish religion. What was powerful is that we had Mincha (Afternoon) services there to end our day. We then travelled to Tiberias for the night and had a great dinner. After dinner, I went to a night walk to the Tomb of Maimonides.
The following day, we travelled to Tsfat, the center of Jewish mysticism in Israel. We saw the synagogues of Isaac Luria (who I did my own research on for my Bachelor's Essay) and Joseph Caro (who wrote the Shulkan Aruch (the most authoritative source of halakah, Jewish law, since the Talmud. We also met with a local Kabbalah Artist, who provided a wonderful introduction to the study of Kabbalah through his artwork. Naturally, I bought posters of his work to use as a teaching tool when I return back to the States.
Our last day was in Haifa, where we visited the Leo Baeck School, a Progressive Education Center offering education for students in Kindergaten - Adult Education. It's one of the best schools in Israel, and offers the finest education experience while incorporating Jewish studies in their curriculum. Believe it or not, most Israels know little about their Jewish heritage. As one of the students said, "Before I came to Leo Baeck I always considered myself Israeli first and Jewish second. Now, I am Jewish first and Israeli second." Jewish identity is a huge issue in Israel, as in the Chief Rabbinate's eyes, you are either Orthodox or Secular. There's no understanding of Reform or Conservative Judaism in Israel, and each movement is only beginning to make a presence.
I promise when I have my vacation I'll post pictures throughout the semester. I have lots to do over the next couple weeks, but lots to look forward to. Michelle comes next week, and a week later, I'll get to see my parents and brother. It will be nice to have a taste of home to give me the extra push to end my semester on top.
PJ
Friday, December 7, 2007
Friday, November 16, 2007
Hello, Again
I know that I haven't been good about updating my blog recently, and I promise you I will try and do better.
In the meantime, we are in the midst of midterm exams and I've come to the realization that my study skills from college are not 100% assisting me in Graduate School. Both my Liturgy and History classes are structured by our readings and once a week lectures. Maybe its because we only meet for an hour and a half each week (while I have Hebrew 4 days a week and Bible 3 days a week for the same amount of time), but I am beginning to get concerned about my understanding of the material. I spoke with my Liturgy professor this past week and he ensured me that the "struggle" I am having is normal and it's important for me to ease into the different study process. I trust him, but I am also exploring other ways to internalize the material better. With my limited time outside of class each week, I can't always spend hours reading for one class and writing notes for my readings. And while I always do get the "headlines," the details I have always been able to grasp aren't sinking in. Fortunately I am not falling behind in these classes because of this difficulty, and I have time to figure it out before my finals in January.
I've also begun to work on my D'var Torah that I am presenting during Shacharit (morning) services on December 17. A week later, I'll be chanting Torah for the first time EVER. What is great about these two days is not only the fact that I can share my ideas and express myself through cantillation, but Michelle and my parents will be here during that time and it will be great for them to see me do these awesome things. I also found out Austin is heading to Israel as well through Birthright, and it looks like he'll extend his trip to join me and our parents up North.
As most of you know, I'll be heading back to the states for two weeks in January for my winter break. While I'll have the opportunity to spend time with Michelle and my parents in December, school will inevitably keep me busy and sometimes preoccupied. Going home will be a great chance to spend time with my family and friends when I'll have the chance to breathe and relax. I think a quality that I have taken of my father's is that I already have found myself work to do during the break! It would be beneficial for me to organize and review my Hebrew notes from this semester and begin my reading for my Rabbinics class that I will begin in the Spring. But Dad has also taught me to enjoy any time off, but the older I get, the less I'll have it! A fellow classmate suggested that I buy the book in the states and begin studying the introductory material if I haven't had any previous experience with Talmud and Midrash. I'm going to take her advice. I'll be spending January 11-17 in Greenville, and I promised my mom that I won't have any desire to go to our tradition of lunch at Pita House (a Middle Eastern Restaurant) and I might just want to go to lunch at a good ole' American establishment. From Thursday night, January 17, until the 25th, I'll be in Charleston visiting my other home. It will be really nice to see everyone and have a separation from the HUC world for a couple weeks.
What else? I also have the opportunity to lead a sermon on April 12 on a Saturday morning Shabbat. The difference between this and the D'var Torah is not only the length, but I'll have the chance to express myself a little more. The D'var Torah has specific requirements that we must abide by, as it is an exercise for the students to begin getting comfortable with the texts of Talmud, Midrash, and other Rabbinic Literature and commentary.
I've also begun to work on preparating for my trip to the Former Soviet Union during Pesach. There are only about 6 or so Rabbis in this area, and it is a great service to the congregations for Rabbinic, Cantorial, and Education Students to lead them in the Pesach celebration! That will be my next major trip before I return to the states in May. It's amazing to think that it is already the holiday season in the states, and I'm already thinking about May!
It will be weird over the next month because things are very normal here in Jerusalem - the holiday spirit has already passed us and life must go on. As a result, I have class next Thursday on Thanksgiving, and may be stumbling into school on New Year's Day after a long night of celebrating. It will be interesting though to experience Israel during this time, as the Hannukah spirit WILL start to come upon us!
I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Miss you,
PJ
In the meantime, we are in the midst of midterm exams and I've come to the realization that my study skills from college are not 100% assisting me in Graduate School. Both my Liturgy and History classes are structured by our readings and once a week lectures. Maybe its because we only meet for an hour and a half each week (while I have Hebrew 4 days a week and Bible 3 days a week for the same amount of time), but I am beginning to get concerned about my understanding of the material. I spoke with my Liturgy professor this past week and he ensured me that the "struggle" I am having is normal and it's important for me to ease into the different study process. I trust him, but I am also exploring other ways to internalize the material better. With my limited time outside of class each week, I can't always spend hours reading for one class and writing notes for my readings. And while I always do get the "headlines," the details I have always been able to grasp aren't sinking in. Fortunately I am not falling behind in these classes because of this difficulty, and I have time to figure it out before my finals in January.
I've also begun to work on my D'var Torah that I am presenting during Shacharit (morning) services on December 17. A week later, I'll be chanting Torah for the first time EVER. What is great about these two days is not only the fact that I can share my ideas and express myself through cantillation, but Michelle and my parents will be here during that time and it will be great for them to see me do these awesome things. I also found out Austin is heading to Israel as well through Birthright, and it looks like he'll extend his trip to join me and our parents up North.
As most of you know, I'll be heading back to the states for two weeks in January for my winter break. While I'll have the opportunity to spend time with Michelle and my parents in December, school will inevitably keep me busy and sometimes preoccupied. Going home will be a great chance to spend time with my family and friends when I'll have the chance to breathe and relax. I think a quality that I have taken of my father's is that I already have found myself work to do during the break! It would be beneficial for me to organize and review my Hebrew notes from this semester and begin my reading for my Rabbinics class that I will begin in the Spring. But Dad has also taught me to enjoy any time off, but the older I get, the less I'll have it! A fellow classmate suggested that I buy the book in the states and begin studying the introductory material if I haven't had any previous experience with Talmud and Midrash. I'm going to take her advice. I'll be spending January 11-17 in Greenville, and I promised my mom that I won't have any desire to go to our tradition of lunch at Pita House (a Middle Eastern Restaurant) and I might just want to go to lunch at a good ole' American establishment. From Thursday night, January 17, until the 25th, I'll be in Charleston visiting my other home. It will be really nice to see everyone and have a separation from the HUC world for a couple weeks.
What else? I also have the opportunity to lead a sermon on April 12 on a Saturday morning Shabbat. The difference between this and the D'var Torah is not only the length, but I'll have the chance to express myself a little more. The D'var Torah has specific requirements that we must abide by, as it is an exercise for the students to begin getting comfortable with the texts of Talmud, Midrash, and other Rabbinic Literature and commentary.
I've also begun to work on preparating for my trip to the Former Soviet Union during Pesach. There are only about 6 or so Rabbis in this area, and it is a great service to the congregations for Rabbinic, Cantorial, and Education Students to lead them in the Pesach celebration! That will be my next major trip before I return to the states in May. It's amazing to think that it is already the holiday season in the states, and I'm already thinking about May!
It will be weird over the next month because things are very normal here in Jerusalem - the holiday spirit has already passed us and life must go on. As a result, I have class next Thursday on Thanksgiving, and may be stumbling into school on New Year's Day after a long night of celebrating. It will be interesting though to experience Israel during this time, as the Hannukah spirit WILL start to come upon us!
I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Miss you,
PJ
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
At the End of the Tunnel
Today was one of those days where no matter how tired you are or no matter how overwhelmed you feel, you seem to still wake up on the right side of the bed and see light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve had a hectic three weeks, trying to adjust to a routine schedule that brings me home late a night with a never ending supply of homework to do. Yet, as busy and overwhelmed I can be, I still have been able to find time for myself. I’m learning so much about the sociology of Israel; being a student at HUC is difficult, let alone Jerusalem being an intense place to live in general. There is a strikingly apparent shift in the feel of Jerusalem come Wednesday, as people are starting to prepare themselves for the weekend. Sometimes you just want to be able to press “pause” on your “life remote” so you can take a breath. Fortunately, Wednesdays are the beginning of that breath. Unlike the rest of my week, I have the opportunity to explore Israel and understand the country from a very different lens. My Wednesday Israel Seminars allow me to encounter contemporary Israel, an opportunity that unfortunately would be very difficult to have due to my constant schedule.
Today was perhaps one of the most rewarding days for me in Israel. There have been moments where I have been so frustrated with all the “balagan,” or problems of Israel. Even the littlest things have contributed to my frustration. Yet, today, I finally saw something that was very much Israeli even if it was in the confines of the HUC bubble. Being the Remembrance Day for Yitzhak Rabin, former Prime Minister of Israel who was assassinated in 1995, it seemed fitting that the theme of our Israel Seminar, whether intentional or not, was the bond humankind has with each other.
Rabin placed great emphasis on establishing peace, and for the first time this entire year I truly felt part of a community. We began our day with a short memorial service commemorating Rabin, each of us, while different in our backgrounds and relationship to Judaism, seemed to truly mold as a group. We have been told numerous times that our group has appeared to be the most cohesive in a long time. The establishment of a Jewish State at some level was based (and continues to be based by many) on the idea that the Jewish people – from all over the world – deserves to have a place to call home. As a group, the HUC community is slowly becoming comfortable with one another; teachers and students have a relationship inside and outside the classroom. The fact that each of us are learning in Israel for similar reasons clearly brings us together.
After our memorial service, we traveled to Yad V’Shem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Jerusalem. I don’t know why, but my interest in the Holocaust always continues to grow. I constantly am intrigued by the stories of survivors, and their struggle to live. Now that I have been to Aushwitz, my understanding of this tragic event has truly changed. The imagery of the camp haunted me as I walked into the museum. The elaborate structure of the building reminded me of the entrance to Birkenau. You walked into the museum and felt completely narrowed in, as the walls literally were leaning towards you. Each room had its own story, and each account presented was a story within itself. Unique to this museum was the fact that they didn’t just focus on individuals who died in the concentration camps. They paid tribute to those who had very different stories as well. A wired “fence” blocking parts of the exhibit immediately reminded me of the fences within Aushwitz. There was this constant stress that Jews simply did not fit in anywhere they went, ultimately leading to the establishment of Israel. In many respects, the survivors of the Holocaust came in to and out of the depths, and their relationship to the world truly changed. Yitzhak Nissenbaum, Rabbi at the Warsaw Ghetto said it best:
“This is a time for sanctifying life, not for sanctifying God’s name through death. In the past, our enemies demanded our soul, and the Jew sacrificed his body to sanctify God’s name. Now, the enemy is demanding the Jew’s body and the Jew is obligated to defend it – to protect his life.”
Following our trip to Yad V’Shem, we explored Mount Herzl, a cemetery for both major political leaders and those who gave their lives for Israel and their Jewish identity. Because of the scheduled memorial ceremony for Yitzhak Rabin, we weren’t able to see the political cemetery. However, we took a little adventure and practically snuck into the military section of Mount Herzl. We went through the various graves of the many who sacrificed their lives. The impacting thing about our exploration of the military cemetery was not just about exploring the memorials, but also about being a group. Many of the military heroes of Israel created a separate family outside their own. I am realizing more and more how much friendships are important in this journey ahead of me. There are only 53 other people who can even remotely relate to the experience I am going through, but even then their path towards becoming a rabbi, cantor, or educator is different.
As each day passes, there are times where I truly miss home. Being so far away from something you have been so close to for years is a difficult experience. Yet, I also have this great chance to grow as individual. I’m having a second Bar Mitzvah per-say – this is my year of growth and transition into true adulthood. This journey has only begun, and I’m once again excited to see what is going to happen next.
Today was perhaps one of the most rewarding days for me in Israel. There have been moments where I have been so frustrated with all the “balagan,” or problems of Israel. Even the littlest things have contributed to my frustration. Yet, today, I finally saw something that was very much Israeli even if it was in the confines of the HUC bubble. Being the Remembrance Day for Yitzhak Rabin, former Prime Minister of Israel who was assassinated in 1995, it seemed fitting that the theme of our Israel Seminar, whether intentional or not, was the bond humankind has with each other.
Rabin placed great emphasis on establishing peace, and for the first time this entire year I truly felt part of a community. We began our day with a short memorial service commemorating Rabin, each of us, while different in our backgrounds and relationship to Judaism, seemed to truly mold as a group. We have been told numerous times that our group has appeared to be the most cohesive in a long time. The establishment of a Jewish State at some level was based (and continues to be based by many) on the idea that the Jewish people – from all over the world – deserves to have a place to call home. As a group, the HUC community is slowly becoming comfortable with one another; teachers and students have a relationship inside and outside the classroom. The fact that each of us are learning in Israel for similar reasons clearly brings us together.
After our memorial service, we traveled to Yad V’Shem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Jerusalem. I don’t know why, but my interest in the Holocaust always continues to grow. I constantly am intrigued by the stories of survivors, and their struggle to live. Now that I have been to Aushwitz, my understanding of this tragic event has truly changed. The imagery of the camp haunted me as I walked into the museum. The elaborate structure of the building reminded me of the entrance to Birkenau. You walked into the museum and felt completely narrowed in, as the walls literally were leaning towards you. Each room had its own story, and each account presented was a story within itself. Unique to this museum was the fact that they didn’t just focus on individuals who died in the concentration camps. They paid tribute to those who had very different stories as well. A wired “fence” blocking parts of the exhibit immediately reminded me of the fences within Aushwitz. There was this constant stress that Jews simply did not fit in anywhere they went, ultimately leading to the establishment of Israel. In many respects, the survivors of the Holocaust came in to and out of the depths, and their relationship to the world truly changed. Yitzhak Nissenbaum, Rabbi at the Warsaw Ghetto said it best:
“This is a time for sanctifying life, not for sanctifying God’s name through death. In the past, our enemies demanded our soul, and the Jew sacrificed his body to sanctify God’s name. Now, the enemy is demanding the Jew’s body and the Jew is obligated to defend it – to protect his life.”
Following our trip to Yad V’Shem, we explored Mount Herzl, a cemetery for both major political leaders and those who gave their lives for Israel and their Jewish identity. Because of the scheduled memorial ceremony for Yitzhak Rabin, we weren’t able to see the political cemetery. However, we took a little adventure and practically snuck into the military section of Mount Herzl. We went through the various graves of the many who sacrificed their lives. The impacting thing about our exploration of the military cemetery was not just about exploring the memorials, but also about being a group. Many of the military heroes of Israel created a separate family outside their own. I am realizing more and more how much friendships are important in this journey ahead of me. There are only 53 other people who can even remotely relate to the experience I am going through, but even then their path towards becoming a rabbi, cantor, or educator is different.
As each day passes, there are times where I truly miss home. Being so far away from something you have been so close to for years is a difficult experience. Yet, I also have this great chance to grow as individual. I’m having a second Bar Mitzvah per-say – this is my year of growth and transition into true adulthood. This journey has only begun, and I’m once again excited to see what is going to happen next.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That
There is a phrase that I have grown to know and love over the past three months in Israel, “Acharei HaChagim,” or “After the Holidays.” Summer vacation finally is over in Israel; and that means that I won’t have another break until January. The past month has been a test run for the rest of the school year, as I now will have a full schedule with classes from 8:30-6:00 the majority of the week. The real question is how I am going to balance all my schoolwork without any breaks I have had due to the holidays. It’s going to be a busy schedule, I’ve known that since I arrived here, but the fact is that I haven’t really been able to get into the motions of being a graduate school student until now. This is it!
Fortunately, my schoolwork is doable. After all, students before me have completed the year successfully, right? I won’t be bored, that’s for sure, as I have a combination of reading, comprehension, and translation in all of my classes. I just got to keep telling myself that I will be okay.
Let’s back track about a week ago, when I was in, well, paradise. About ten of my classmates and I traveled to Egypt to stay at a Marriott Beach Resort to relax. Don’t worry, I really wasn’t in the depths of Egypt – I was only 30 minutes from the Israel-Egypt border! Nevertheless, I have a passport stamp to prove my travels. I stayed in Taba, one of the “regions” of Egypt (Sinai and Egypt proper are the other two). I was about 2 hours from Mount Sinai and 4 hours from Cairo. While I do eventually want to go back and see the pyramids, there have been warnings in that area and Taba was as close to the pyramids I felt comfortable going to. Nevertheless, I stayed at a 5-star hotel at a relatively inexpensive price. For those of you who know me, I’m not much of a sit by the beach or pool all day type of guy. While I only could last 3 hours outside at a time, and spent the rest relaxing in my hotel room or walking around, it was nice to do as close to nothing as possible.
As promised, below is the link to pictures from the Galilee/Golan. Most of them are scenic pictures from various points that I went to. Don’t be fooled, they actually are different places! Some of them were taken at Mount Ben Tal, which provides a great view of Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. General rule of thumb: Anything with greenery is Israel; most of the mountains are Syria or Lebanon. There is a picture I took near a barbed wired gate – passed the gate is Lebanon. Yes, I was that close! Other pictures include: a synagogue in Rosh Pina, one of the first settlements outside Jerusalem, and Tel Dan, a well researched archeological site led by an HUC team that shows worship to God outside the Temple in Jerusalem! I need to figure out how to put captions on these pictures so you have a better idea what I am talking about!
Okay, off to do homework…
PJ
http://community.webshots.com/user/pjschwartz (Click on Galilee/Golan Album)
Fortunately, my schoolwork is doable. After all, students before me have completed the year successfully, right? I won’t be bored, that’s for sure, as I have a combination of reading, comprehension, and translation in all of my classes. I just got to keep telling myself that I will be okay.
Let’s back track about a week ago, when I was in, well, paradise. About ten of my classmates and I traveled to Egypt to stay at a Marriott Beach Resort to relax. Don’t worry, I really wasn’t in the depths of Egypt – I was only 30 minutes from the Israel-Egypt border! Nevertheless, I have a passport stamp to prove my travels. I stayed in Taba, one of the “regions” of Egypt (Sinai and Egypt proper are the other two). I was about 2 hours from Mount Sinai and 4 hours from Cairo. While I do eventually want to go back and see the pyramids, there have been warnings in that area and Taba was as close to the pyramids I felt comfortable going to. Nevertheless, I stayed at a 5-star hotel at a relatively inexpensive price. For those of you who know me, I’m not much of a sit by the beach or pool all day type of guy. While I only could last 3 hours outside at a time, and spent the rest relaxing in my hotel room or walking around, it was nice to do as close to nothing as possible.
As promised, below is the link to pictures from the Galilee/Golan. Most of them are scenic pictures from various points that I went to. Don’t be fooled, they actually are different places! Some of them were taken at Mount Ben Tal, which provides a great view of Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. General rule of thumb: Anything with greenery is Israel; most of the mountains are Syria or Lebanon. There is a picture I took near a barbed wired gate – passed the gate is Lebanon. Yes, I was that close! Other pictures include: a synagogue in Rosh Pina, one of the first settlements outside Jerusalem, and Tel Dan, a well researched archeological site led by an HUC team that shows worship to God outside the Temple in Jerusalem! I need to figure out how to put captions on these pictures so you have a better idea what I am talking about!
Okay, off to do homework…
PJ
http://community.webshots.com/user/pjschwartz (Click on Galilee/Golan Album)
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Galilee/Golan
I just got back from my tiyul in the Galilee and Golan on Tuesday night. It was a wonderful, but exhausting trip!
We started on trip on Sunday morning and travelled to Rosh Pina, one of the first settlements within Northern Israel that encompassed the concept of the "New Jew," which served as our theme during the trip. The "New Jew" represented a shift from tradition to modernity in many respects. No longer was a Jew defined as a yeshiva student who studied Torah all day, but an agriculturalist and farmer who wanted to be strong, assertive, and could overcome anything.
After Rosh Pina, we travelled to the Jordan River where went rafting and had the water fight of the century with fellow classmates and Israelis. Fortunately it wasn't the class 5 rapids I was used to, because the water fight was fun!
We ended our day at Karei Deshe, our Youth Hostel that overlooked the Kinneret, where 1/3 of our drinking water in Israel comes from. The view was gorgeous and the hostel was actually a decent sleeping accommodation!
On Day Two, we went to Tel Dan, one of the most famous archaeological sites in Israel that is overseen by HUC. This site show remnants of worship and sacrifice, and also there was an inscription found that indicated a connection to the "House" or Kingdom of David.
Afterwards, we travelled to a beautiful overlook of the Galilee/Golan, Lebanon and Syria. There, we began to truly talk about the political and security situation of the North. It was quite surreal to be that close to these border countries that have caused so much damage, but I must say that I felt safer up North than I do in Jerusalem. Up north, it was quiet and peaceful and there was no sign of damage from the events of last year. In Jerusalem, while overall a safe place to be right now, you still have this feeling of tension and concern of safety.
Then, we spent a lot of time discussing the pros and cons of individuals staying in the Golan and not giving up the land for peace. The more and more I talk about these issues, the more confused I get and the more unsure I am about what I feel. Monday night, we had a barbeque at our hostel and sung Israeli songs by the Kinneret.
On Tuesday, we travelled to Tel Hai, a national monument that commemorates the deaths of eight Jews, six men and two women. The fighters who were killed symbolized the determination of the Jewish people and inspired others to help fight against the conflict with the Arabs. In addition, we went to Metulla, where I literally was right next to the border line of Israel and Lebanon. We learned that any area that is green with trees in Israel, and beyond the green is Lebanon.
We ended our trip with a stop at the Naot Factory where I bought some sandals and shoes, and also at the Kinneret Cemetary, where we had mincha services and saw some of the grave sites of major players in the emergence of the New Jew movement.
Overall, it was a great trip and very educational. I promise to post pictures soon!
PJ
We started on trip on Sunday morning and travelled to Rosh Pina, one of the first settlements within Northern Israel that encompassed the concept of the "New Jew," which served as our theme during the trip. The "New Jew" represented a shift from tradition to modernity in many respects. No longer was a Jew defined as a yeshiva student who studied Torah all day, but an agriculturalist and farmer who wanted to be strong, assertive, and could overcome anything.
After Rosh Pina, we travelled to the Jordan River where went rafting and had the water fight of the century with fellow classmates and Israelis. Fortunately it wasn't the class 5 rapids I was used to, because the water fight was fun!
We ended our day at Karei Deshe, our Youth Hostel that overlooked the Kinneret, where 1/3 of our drinking water in Israel comes from. The view was gorgeous and the hostel was actually a decent sleeping accommodation!
On Day Two, we went to Tel Dan, one of the most famous archaeological sites in Israel that is overseen by HUC. This site show remnants of worship and sacrifice, and also there was an inscription found that indicated a connection to the "House" or Kingdom of David.
Afterwards, we travelled to a beautiful overlook of the Galilee/Golan, Lebanon and Syria. There, we began to truly talk about the political and security situation of the North. It was quite surreal to be that close to these border countries that have caused so much damage, but I must say that I felt safer up North than I do in Jerusalem. Up north, it was quiet and peaceful and there was no sign of damage from the events of last year. In Jerusalem, while overall a safe place to be right now, you still have this feeling of tension and concern of safety.
Then, we spent a lot of time discussing the pros and cons of individuals staying in the Golan and not giving up the land for peace. The more and more I talk about these issues, the more confused I get and the more unsure I am about what I feel. Monday night, we had a barbeque at our hostel and sung Israeli songs by the Kinneret.
On Tuesday, we travelled to Tel Hai, a national monument that commemorates the deaths of eight Jews, six men and two women. The fighters who were killed symbolized the determination of the Jewish people and inspired others to help fight against the conflict with the Arabs. In addition, we went to Metulla, where I literally was right next to the border line of Israel and Lebanon. We learned that any area that is green with trees in Israel, and beyond the green is Lebanon.
We ended our trip with a stop at the Naot Factory where I bought some sandals and shoes, and also at the Kinneret Cemetary, where we had mincha services and saw some of the grave sites of major players in the emergence of the New Jew movement.
Overall, it was a great trip and very educational. I promise to post pictures soon!
PJ
Yom Kippur in Jerusalem
I woke up early last Friday morning and decided to treat myself to breakfast before things closed for both Shabbat and Yom Kippur. While stores and restaurants were open, it was clear as I walked throughout Downtown Jerusalem that everyone was already preparing themselves for Yom Kippur. Many restaurants and stores usually open prior to Shabbat were closed, and the usual feel of an American Saturday morning and afternoon (that is the best way to describe Fridays in Israel) was not present.
As the day progressed, the city became even quieter and cars driving on the street began to disappear. I had a wonderful pre-fast dinner at my friends' apartment, and come 5:00 last Friday, everything had shut down. As I prayed with my friends and visitors in Blaustein Hall that overlooked the Old City, the transition from daylight to moonlight helped put me in the introspective mood. By the end of the service, it was evident that Yom Kippur, even with our 8 hour reprieve between evening and morning services, was truly one, long day that was symbolized by our seeking atonement from and at one ment with God.
After services, I walked home only to find the streets of Jerusalem empty of cars but filled with people of all ages - adults singing, children riding their bikes, only what could be described as a "block party" to help pass the time. I woke up the next morning and felt a breeze that could only be a glimpse of fall weather (since then, I wake up to the glazing sun and the sweat that quickly develops on my t-shirt), and attended services. As the day progressed, my fast became quiet difficult. I was exhausted and began to develop a hunger headache. At concluding services, I had the opportunity to blow my shofar (yes, I bought a shofar, and I can blow it!) and quickly break the fast with my friends.
The feel of Yom Kippur was quite different than that of the states. Was it more meaningful? Maybe. But what I do know is that was an amazing opportunity to experience it in Israel!
PJ
As the day progressed, the city became even quieter and cars driving on the street began to disappear. I had a wonderful pre-fast dinner at my friends' apartment, and come 5:00 last Friday, everything had shut down. As I prayed with my friends and visitors in Blaustein Hall that overlooked the Old City, the transition from daylight to moonlight helped put me in the introspective mood. By the end of the service, it was evident that Yom Kippur, even with our 8 hour reprieve between evening and morning services, was truly one, long day that was symbolized by our seeking atonement from and at one ment with God.
After services, I walked home only to find the streets of Jerusalem empty of cars but filled with people of all ages - adults singing, children riding their bikes, only what could be described as a "block party" to help pass the time. I woke up the next morning and felt a breeze that could only be a glimpse of fall weather (since then, I wake up to the glazing sun and the sweat that quickly develops on my t-shirt), and attended services. As the day progressed, my fast became quiet difficult. I was exhausted and began to develop a hunger headache. At concluding services, I had the opportunity to blow my shofar (yes, I bought a shofar, and I can blow it!) and quickly break the fast with my friends.
The feel of Yom Kippur was quite different than that of the states. Was it more meaningful? Maybe. But what I do know is that was an amazing opportunity to experience it in Israel!
PJ
Friday, September 14, 2007
Shanah Tovah
It's hard to believe that I have already completed 25% of my first year of Rabbinical school. It's hard to believe that I am learning new things and new ways to study things I've learned before. It's hard to believe that this year is so different from last. A year ago I was a senior in college, frantically working on a Bachelor's Essay that I couldn't seem to find structure to. I was "playing" rabbi at the local synagogue, assisting with programming throughout the High Holy Days, and served a similar role at the Hillel as Religious and Cultural Chair. I was preparing to retake the GRE, and I had just recieved my application packet to HUC.
Now, I am in Jerusalem. I am a first year rabbinical school student and I still am amazed at the many things I am learning and will learn. I am finding new ways of examining things that I have in the past, and developing and idea of what my Reform Judaism is.
This week, in preparation for the High Holy Days, we had a three day program that provided us with an overview of S'lichot, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. My relationship to these days have dramatically changed over the past couple weeks, and this program seemed to be the icing on the cake. While I have never observed S'lichot (the days, or month (depending on if you are Ashkenazic or Sephardic) leading up to the High Holy Days), I always find myself doing a lot of reflecting right before the new year. I look at who I am, where I have been, and I what I hope to become in the future. S'lichot always falls immediately during the beginning of the new year, which seems most appropriate because I always find myself readjusting to the world around me when I go back to school.
And now, as we are now in the midst of Rosh Hashanah, I attended services with such a different lens this year. Much of the program I participated in earlier in the week was related to the understanding of the liturgy and scriptural readings themselves. As my professors described to me what was included, what was taken out, the difference in melodies, and most importantly, the meaning behind each prayer, I began to think about the ways that I would like to make these days important to me, especially during a service. HUC services are the most American-Reform style services in town, using the prayerbooks that I have become so accustomed to. Yet, every time I go, the service becomes more and more familiar as I learn its structure, but more and more foreign as I realize the complexity behind the prayer. Everything is in Hebrew, with the exception of the sermon, so the responsive readings I have come to know are no longer part of the service. Do I find this a good thing, or do I find it a bad thing? Well, it's complicated. In my opinion, these readings, if we use too much of them, can become repetitive and take away from the meaning of the prayer. Yet, if you take them out, you are at risk for the congregation to not be able to have meaningful prayer as well. In a more practical sense, the role of the Rabbi dramatically changes as well. Over the past two days, the Rabbi barely participated in the service up until the sermon. The cantor and the choir guided the congregation in prayer. While the music of the prayer is gorgeous and it's wonderful to hear the cantor and choir, I feel that it takes away from congregant participation. As a future rabbi, and Jewish professional, I really want to be able to explore the balance in roles, where all parties can have a meaningful prayer experience.
Nevertheless, it was quite powerful to see some of my friends have their solos and empower us with Avinu Malkeinu. In addition, I prayed looking directly at the Old City - an opportunity that I will rarely have once I leave Israel. I was able to have some sense of "family" here, attending a dinner with many friends on Erev Rosh Hashanah and lunch yesterday. The city itself is as dead as it is on Shabbat - stores are closed, and it's much easier to cross the street!
Next week, I'll have another full week of classes before Yom Kippur. This sacred day is apparently intensified in Jersualem. While small 24 hour stores can be found open during Rosh Hashanah and you still can see cars on the road, Yom Kippur brings Jerusalem to a halt - you can't get away from the Day of Atonement, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the most sacred day of the year in the most sacred place in the world.
After Yom Kippur, I head with my classmates to the Galilee/Golan. When I return, I have my last break before I have three months straight of studies and schooling. I am going with a bunch of friends to Sinai, to relax at a Marriott Resort and hopefully get to see some pyramids and sights if it's safe! I'll take pictures, and share with you my adventures soon!
PJ
Now, I am in Jerusalem. I am a first year rabbinical school student and I still am amazed at the many things I am learning and will learn. I am finding new ways of examining things that I have in the past, and developing and idea of what my Reform Judaism is.
This week, in preparation for the High Holy Days, we had a three day program that provided us with an overview of S'lichot, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. My relationship to these days have dramatically changed over the past couple weeks, and this program seemed to be the icing on the cake. While I have never observed S'lichot (the days, or month (depending on if you are Ashkenazic or Sephardic) leading up to the High Holy Days), I always find myself doing a lot of reflecting right before the new year. I look at who I am, where I have been, and I what I hope to become in the future. S'lichot always falls immediately during the beginning of the new year, which seems most appropriate because I always find myself readjusting to the world around me when I go back to school.
And now, as we are now in the midst of Rosh Hashanah, I attended services with such a different lens this year. Much of the program I participated in earlier in the week was related to the understanding of the liturgy and scriptural readings themselves. As my professors described to me what was included, what was taken out, the difference in melodies, and most importantly, the meaning behind each prayer, I began to think about the ways that I would like to make these days important to me, especially during a service. HUC services are the most American-Reform style services in town, using the prayerbooks that I have become so accustomed to. Yet, every time I go, the service becomes more and more familiar as I learn its structure, but more and more foreign as I realize the complexity behind the prayer. Everything is in Hebrew, with the exception of the sermon, so the responsive readings I have come to know are no longer part of the service. Do I find this a good thing, or do I find it a bad thing? Well, it's complicated. In my opinion, these readings, if we use too much of them, can become repetitive and take away from the meaning of the prayer. Yet, if you take them out, you are at risk for the congregation to not be able to have meaningful prayer as well. In a more practical sense, the role of the Rabbi dramatically changes as well. Over the past two days, the Rabbi barely participated in the service up until the sermon. The cantor and the choir guided the congregation in prayer. While the music of the prayer is gorgeous and it's wonderful to hear the cantor and choir, I feel that it takes away from congregant participation. As a future rabbi, and Jewish professional, I really want to be able to explore the balance in roles, where all parties can have a meaningful prayer experience.
Nevertheless, it was quite powerful to see some of my friends have their solos and empower us with Avinu Malkeinu. In addition, I prayed looking directly at the Old City - an opportunity that I will rarely have once I leave Israel. I was able to have some sense of "family" here, attending a dinner with many friends on Erev Rosh Hashanah and lunch yesterday. The city itself is as dead as it is on Shabbat - stores are closed, and it's much easier to cross the street!
Next week, I'll have another full week of classes before Yom Kippur. This sacred day is apparently intensified in Jersualem. While small 24 hour stores can be found open during Rosh Hashanah and you still can see cars on the road, Yom Kippur brings Jerusalem to a halt - you can't get away from the Day of Atonement, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the most sacred day of the year in the most sacred place in the world.
After Yom Kippur, I head with my classmates to the Galilee/Golan. When I return, I have my last break before I have three months straight of studies and schooling. I am going with a bunch of friends to Sinai, to relax at a Marriott Resort and hopefully get to see some pyramids and sights if it's safe! I'll take pictures, and share with you my adventures soon!
PJ
Friday, September 7, 2007
My First Year Has Begun!
After having such a spiritually amazing trip in Poland, I returned safely to Jerusalem with the infamous stomach bug that has spread throughout campus. Nevertheless, four days of drinking tonic water and taking Imodium settled my stomach and thank goodness, I have my appetite back!
School began on Sunday and I must say that I was quite overwhelmed at first. Maybe it was just back to school jitters, but I really was concerned about balancing everything and not having time to myself. Yet, as I reflect upon the past week, I realize that as long as I utilize the time I have throughout the week, I will be fine and will continue to enjoy what I am learning.
I began my day with Hebrew. On Sundays, I am taught by a different Hebrew teacher than the rest of the week. Her major focus is for us to expose ourselves to Israeli culture and politics through the news. Each week, we'll practice reading newspaper articles and learn more practical vocabulary outside the average grammar related words. I found it very difficult to apply my Hebrew to a more practical form of study, but after walking myself through the text and learning the new words, I was able to adjust to the new texts.
Next, I had Biblical Grammar. I only have this class one day a week (as I do most of my courses, with the exception of Hebrew and Bible), so it is primarily an introductory course. My teacher is the same teacher I had during my ulpan, who also is my "main" Hebrew teacher throughout the week. As a result, both of these classes will be challenging but I am fortunate to have one of the best Hebrew teachers on campus!
I ended my Sunday with Bible. Each class we'll go over a text with in the Tanakh and discuss in detail certain passages. For the first time I am actually translating some of the text rather than just reading the English, which is a really neat experience as you are able to see what the text literally was trying to say.
On Monday, I had Hebrew, Bible, and my Liturgy class. Liturgy will be probably one of my most difficult courses, as I will be learning and translating unfamiliar prayers, reading commentary about liturgy, and learning about the structure of the service. By the end of the year, though, I definitely will know my prayers! After the Holidays, I will be taking enrichment courses in Jewish Nusach, Torah/Haftarah Cantillation, and the High Holy Days.
On Tuesday, I had Hebrew for 3 hours and then finished my day with History. It will be a lot of reading, but interesting material on the rise to Zionism and the State of Israel. Beginning in a few weeks, I'll be participating in the Community Choir as well.
On Wednesday, I will usually be taking a seminar course on Contemporary Israel. We'll have lectures, discussions, watch films, or go on trips throughout Israel to learn about Israel "today."
However, this past Wednesday we had a Professional Day which was really interesting. We discussed the use of Iyunne Tefillah, poems or readings to supplement prayer. We often find this in responsive readings or meditations. We talked about when to use these supplements, how long they should be, and how to utilize them to enrich prayer for the individual.
In addition, we had a session on writing a D'var Torah, or sermon. One of the most striking discussions we had was about the use of politics within a sermon. Whether it be a statement about the government or politics within the congregation itself, Rabbi Marmur, Dean of the Jerusalem Campus, seemed to be advocating discussing these things in a sermon. I have always had a problem with this idea because I not only want to avoid offending people, but I also feel that it is unprofessional to discuss this type of business on Shabbat, or even the High Holy Days. Furthermore, talking about politics may affect the mood of the service or even inhibit individuals from having a holy experience. Yet, Rabbi Marmur pointed out that with the right balance between sharing opinion and teaching, one can use it as a positive example in a sermon.
We finished our day with learning about the Jewish Bookshelf and explore the major texts that every rabbi should have in their own personal library and slowly learn to use. It is amazing that I am slowly acclimating myself to these sources, and using them as a tool to share and teach will be quite an experience!
Thursday, I had Bible and Hebrew, and was happy to say I finished my first week of Rabbinical School!
More to come about the upcoming High Holy Days and next's weeks programming about them!
Shanah Tovah,
PJ
School began on Sunday and I must say that I was quite overwhelmed at first. Maybe it was just back to school jitters, but I really was concerned about balancing everything and not having time to myself. Yet, as I reflect upon the past week, I realize that as long as I utilize the time I have throughout the week, I will be fine and will continue to enjoy what I am learning.
I began my day with Hebrew. On Sundays, I am taught by a different Hebrew teacher than the rest of the week. Her major focus is for us to expose ourselves to Israeli culture and politics through the news. Each week, we'll practice reading newspaper articles and learn more practical vocabulary outside the average grammar related words. I found it very difficult to apply my Hebrew to a more practical form of study, but after walking myself through the text and learning the new words, I was able to adjust to the new texts.
Next, I had Biblical Grammar. I only have this class one day a week (as I do most of my courses, with the exception of Hebrew and Bible), so it is primarily an introductory course. My teacher is the same teacher I had during my ulpan, who also is my "main" Hebrew teacher throughout the week. As a result, both of these classes will be challenging but I am fortunate to have one of the best Hebrew teachers on campus!
I ended my Sunday with Bible. Each class we'll go over a text with in the Tanakh and discuss in detail certain passages. For the first time I am actually translating some of the text rather than just reading the English, which is a really neat experience as you are able to see what the text literally was trying to say.
On Monday, I had Hebrew, Bible, and my Liturgy class. Liturgy will be probably one of my most difficult courses, as I will be learning and translating unfamiliar prayers, reading commentary about liturgy, and learning about the structure of the service. By the end of the year, though, I definitely will know my prayers! After the Holidays, I will be taking enrichment courses in Jewish Nusach, Torah/Haftarah Cantillation, and the High Holy Days.
On Tuesday, I had Hebrew for 3 hours and then finished my day with History. It will be a lot of reading, but interesting material on the rise to Zionism and the State of Israel. Beginning in a few weeks, I'll be participating in the Community Choir as well.
On Wednesday, I will usually be taking a seminar course on Contemporary Israel. We'll have lectures, discussions, watch films, or go on trips throughout Israel to learn about Israel "today."
However, this past Wednesday we had a Professional Day which was really interesting. We discussed the use of Iyunne Tefillah, poems or readings to supplement prayer. We often find this in responsive readings or meditations. We talked about when to use these supplements, how long they should be, and how to utilize them to enrich prayer for the individual.
In addition, we had a session on writing a D'var Torah, or sermon. One of the most striking discussions we had was about the use of politics within a sermon. Whether it be a statement about the government or politics within the congregation itself, Rabbi Marmur, Dean of the Jerusalem Campus, seemed to be advocating discussing these things in a sermon. I have always had a problem with this idea because I not only want to avoid offending people, but I also feel that it is unprofessional to discuss this type of business on Shabbat, or even the High Holy Days. Furthermore, talking about politics may affect the mood of the service or even inhibit individuals from having a holy experience. Yet, Rabbi Marmur pointed out that with the right balance between sharing opinion and teaching, one can use it as a positive example in a sermon.
We finished our day with learning about the Jewish Bookshelf and explore the major texts that every rabbi should have in their own personal library and slowly learn to use. It is amazing that I am slowly acclimating myself to these sources, and using them as a tool to share and teach will be quite an experience!
Thursday, I had Bible and Hebrew, and was happy to say I finished my first week of Rabbinical School!
More to come about the upcoming High Holy Days and next's weeks programming about them!
Shanah Tovah,
PJ
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Auschwitz
Today, like many Jews before me, I walked into the Aushwitz concentration camp and Birkenau death camp. However, unlike the massive amount of victims that suffered through the Holocaust, I walked out. It's difficult to imagine that such a short time ago the world was a very different place. Like me, many have struggled with the idea that such a place could exist, such a mass extermination could occur, and such forced power over others could strip one's dignity away from them and destroy one's sense of humanity.
I walked through the concentration camp with one goal: to recite the Mourner's Kaddish at the right time and the right moment. As I walked into one of the barracks, I saw about 50 or so prayer shawls hanging in a glass case. I continued walking and saw thousands upon thousands of shoes piled on top of one another. And then, as I turned to my left, I saw a case filled with the hair of nearly four thousand victims whose hair was cut off them when they arrived. As I looked at the closest thing that I saw to the remains of these individuals, I recited "Yitgadal V'Yitkidash Shemay Rabbah..." I began to think about if these victims realized as they entered the camps what they were going to experience. Did they know that they were going to be forced to work all day, perhaps starve to death, and no longer have a name as identification but a number? Did they believe that they one day would be free or did they personally accept that all faith was lost?
We walked into Block 11, the death block of Aushwitz and saw the only remains of the gas chambers. As empty as it was, you could easily imagine the screams of those who once were in these chambers.
A short drive away we went to Birkenau, and the first thing we saw was the entrance to the death camp that trains once drove through to drop off the victims. The death camp itself was so big, and the thought of the many people that were exterminated kept me in shock. As I walked closer and closer to the remains of the crematoriums, I slowly became speechless. I saw a marsh with left over ashes of victims and the basement of the crematorium where individuals undressed and prepared themselves for death.
I continue to have respect for all the survivors of the Holocaust - those who struggled to survive in so many different ways. It's ironic, you know - that the main goal of this tragedy was to eliminate a group of people thought to be the same. Yet, no one account can truly encompass the events of the Holocaust. No one account can serve justice to the pain and suffering of the many victims. No one can truly understand it or even grasp it. I just stand in silence, realizing that my own challenges in life no longer seem to be a challenge once I compare them to this.
Zichronam l'Vracha,
May their memories be a blessing.
http://community.webshots.com/user/pjschwartz
I walked through the concentration camp with one goal: to recite the Mourner's Kaddish at the right time and the right moment. As I walked into one of the barracks, I saw about 50 or so prayer shawls hanging in a glass case. I continued walking and saw thousands upon thousands of shoes piled on top of one another. And then, as I turned to my left, I saw a case filled with the hair of nearly four thousand victims whose hair was cut off them when they arrived. As I looked at the closest thing that I saw to the remains of these individuals, I recited "Yitgadal V'Yitkidash Shemay Rabbah..." I began to think about if these victims realized as they entered the camps what they were going to experience. Did they know that they were going to be forced to work all day, perhaps starve to death, and no longer have a name as identification but a number? Did they believe that they one day would be free or did they personally accept that all faith was lost?
We walked into Block 11, the death block of Aushwitz and saw the only remains of the gas chambers. As empty as it was, you could easily imagine the screams of those who once were in these chambers.
A short drive away we went to Birkenau, and the first thing we saw was the entrance to the death camp that trains once drove through to drop off the victims. The death camp itself was so big, and the thought of the many people that were exterminated kept me in shock. As I walked closer and closer to the remains of the crematoriums, I slowly became speechless. I saw a marsh with left over ashes of victims and the basement of the crematorium where individuals undressed and prepared themselves for death.
I continue to have respect for all the survivors of the Holocaust - those who struggled to survive in so many different ways. It's ironic, you know - that the main goal of this tragedy was to eliminate a group of people thought to be the same. Yet, no one account can truly encompass the events of the Holocaust. No one account can serve justice to the pain and suffering of the many victims. No one can truly understand it or even grasp it. I just stand in silence, realizing that my own challenges in life no longer seem to be a challenge once I compare them to this.
Zichronam l'Vracha,
May their memories be a blessing.
http://community.webshots.com/user/pjschwartz
Thursday, August 23, 2007
The Next Stage
As I begin my week long vacation, I reflect upon how much I've actually learned over the past two months. It's hard to believe that so much time has flown by so quickly, and it's amazing to think that the rest of this year will do the same. In about four hours I will leave for the Ben Gurion Aiport to catch a flight to Krackow, Poland and I will spend five days exploring Jewish history, including a Shabbat trip to Aushwitz and Birkeneau. While I can't say that I am "excited" for this trip, I can say that I am looking forward to having what I hope to be a spiritually restoring experience. To stand outside the barracks that many victims once did, including theologian Elie Wiesel who in his famous book, Night, challenged his relationship to God but refused to turn his back on God. For me, the greatest test of faith is having faith even when there is no reason to keep it. For Wiesel, "God behaved badly." He held God accountable for God's actions and that profound statement continues to be a mark of the evolution of Judaism. I promise to have pictures to share with you when I return.
A week ago we began the Jewish month of Elul, which is a month of introspection. This month is encompassed by our preparation for the New Year, and it is important for us to reflect upon the past year and reevaluate our relationship to ourselves and the world. It's very appropriate that I have ended my Ulpan with great success and now am shifting gears in a week for the academic semester. My liturgy professor, who will be a mentor to me this year, made it clear that our only expectation for this year is to know more than you did coming - but it doesn't mean one will know everything. This year is a year of skills - understanding the structure of Liturgy, how to read the Talmud or Midrash, and how to interpret the Bible theologically, historically, and culturally. I'll learn to chant Torah and Haftarah, and learn how to lead a High Holy Day service (a skill I must have as I will return to the states and lead High Holy Day services!). I'll continue to emerse myself in Israel and its wonderful (and not so wonderful characteristics). And more importantly, I'll continue to grow as a human being and a future Jewish professional.
I'm ready. Bring it on.
PJ
A week ago we began the Jewish month of Elul, which is a month of introspection. This month is encompassed by our preparation for the New Year, and it is important for us to reflect upon the past year and reevaluate our relationship to ourselves and the world. It's very appropriate that I have ended my Ulpan with great success and now am shifting gears in a week for the academic semester. My liturgy professor, who will be a mentor to me this year, made it clear that our only expectation for this year is to know more than you did coming - but it doesn't mean one will know everything. This year is a year of skills - understanding the structure of Liturgy, how to read the Talmud or Midrash, and how to interpret the Bible theologically, historically, and culturally. I'll learn to chant Torah and Haftarah, and learn how to lead a High Holy Day service (a skill I must have as I will return to the states and lead High Holy Day services!). I'll continue to emerse myself in Israel and its wonderful (and not so wonderful characteristics). And more importantly, I'll continue to grow as a human being and a future Jewish professional.
I'm ready. Bring it on.
PJ
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
It's Time to Catch Up
After a really busy few weeks, I thought it would be nice to divide my update into two posts. Last Thursday night, to celebrate the nearing end of ulpan (which ended today...more about that in post 2!), we had a Beit Cafe (Coffee House) talent show. So I can't juggle, do magic (I should of kept my magic set I had as a kid), or lift a car, but I can do one thing well: make jokes. What's interesting about what I actually did for the Beit Cafe is that I turned something horrible that happened into something that I can laugh about....
About a month ago I couldn't sleep and woke up early to try and find coffee to start my day. While I knew where I wanted to go, I didn't know exactly how to get there and I ended up getting lost. I was on the phone as I was trying to find it and two police officers stopped me and questioned me. The asked for my name, what I was doing, where I was from, etc. After telling them I wanted to get coffee at the local shop, they pointed me in the right direction. When I found that it was closed, I ended up heading back in the other direction. The officers again questioned me and began to interrogate me (they really thought I could have been a terrorist or something). They didn't accept my ID, copies of my Passport and Visa, or my Insurance Card. They ended up hand cuffing me and putting me in a holding cell at what I've learned to be a part of the President's Residence (score! I got a VIP tour...ha, ha). I felt like I was in an episode of 24...I was sweating, scared, and they really were breaking me down.
What was the end result? They let me go eventually, but I was really thrown off by the entire thing. It appears that the officers were just wanted to have fun with a foreigner, and they did.
And while I was scared and had a hard time with the whole thing for a couple days, I finally can joke about it. How could I, PJ, be a terrorist? So, for the Beit Cafe, with a lot of help from my roommate David, who did stand up comedy in college, I did a comedy routine with a top 10 list: The Top Ten Things PJ Learned in Prison. While some of the jokes may not seem funny to you, it has great references to my program or life in Jerusalem.
Below is the transcript (all rights reserved. David Gerber. 2007)
Hello everybody, as you all know my name is PJ Schwartz, and I am up here tonight because I want to talk with you about my experience in Israel so far.
I’m from Greenville, South Carolina, which I am proud to say, is ranked 49th in literacy and 48th in Math, and 53rd in Geography.
I have noticed that Israel and South Carolina are a lot alike. The only big difference between living in Israel and living in the south is that in Israel, more people hate Jews.
This is my first trip to Israel, so naturally I am impressed with all of the amazing sights. The Kotel…David’s tomb…the Shuk…the inside of a jail cell.
If you didn’t hear the story, or notice my shiny new prison tattoos, I, your fellow classmate, had a little run in with the law this summer.
But I am not bitter about this experience as you might expect. Instead, I would like to use this experience as a way for us all to learn, should you find yourselves in a similar situation.
So here we go…here are the Top Ten Things PJ Learned in Prison
10. There is no 10 o’clock break in prison Ulpan
9. I am not saying that I escaped from prison, I am just saying that in the future, people may or may not be exploring PJ-Kiah’s tunnel.
8. The only difference between being behind bars in jail and being in bars on Ben Yehuda street is that people in jail have better bathing habits.
7. There are surprisingly few other people in jail with the name PJ.
6. If you don’t give them the information they require of you, you have to watch a video of Condoleeza Rice and Benjamin Netanyahu making out in a hot tub.
5. There are better ways to break the ice with the other prisoners than by saying “Hey guys, I’m American.”
4. Ahh, so this is what the other side of the mechitza looks like!
3. In Israeli prisons, you get the same kind of abuse as in America, only here it is from right to left.
2. They arrested me because they needed a Rabbinical student to lead their Shabbat services. They let me go when they found out I was Reform.
1. Prison? I thought I was at Jerusalem day!
About a month ago I couldn't sleep and woke up early to try and find coffee to start my day. While I knew where I wanted to go, I didn't know exactly how to get there and I ended up getting lost. I was on the phone as I was trying to find it and two police officers stopped me and questioned me. The asked for my name, what I was doing, where I was from, etc. After telling them I wanted to get coffee at the local shop, they pointed me in the right direction. When I found that it was closed, I ended up heading back in the other direction. The officers again questioned me and began to interrogate me (they really thought I could have been a terrorist or something). They didn't accept my ID, copies of my Passport and Visa, or my Insurance Card. They ended up hand cuffing me and putting me in a holding cell at what I've learned to be a part of the President's Residence (score! I got a VIP tour...ha, ha). I felt like I was in an episode of 24...I was sweating, scared, and they really were breaking me down.
What was the end result? They let me go eventually, but I was really thrown off by the entire thing. It appears that the officers were just wanted to have fun with a foreigner, and they did.
And while I was scared and had a hard time with the whole thing for a couple days, I finally can joke about it. How could I, PJ, be a terrorist? So, for the Beit Cafe, with a lot of help from my roommate David, who did stand up comedy in college, I did a comedy routine with a top 10 list: The Top Ten Things PJ Learned in Prison. While some of the jokes may not seem funny to you, it has great references to my program or life in Jerusalem.
Below is the transcript (all rights reserved. David Gerber. 2007)
Hello everybody, as you all know my name is PJ Schwartz, and I am up here tonight because I want to talk with you about my experience in Israel so far.
I’m from Greenville, South Carolina, which I am proud to say, is ranked 49th in literacy and 48th in Math, and 53rd in Geography.
I have noticed that Israel and South Carolina are a lot alike. The only big difference between living in Israel and living in the south is that in Israel, more people hate Jews.
This is my first trip to Israel, so naturally I am impressed with all of the amazing sights. The Kotel…David’s tomb…the Shuk…the inside of a jail cell.
If you didn’t hear the story, or notice my shiny new prison tattoos, I, your fellow classmate, had a little run in with the law this summer.
But I am not bitter about this experience as you might expect. Instead, I would like to use this experience as a way for us all to learn, should you find yourselves in a similar situation.
So here we go…here are the Top Ten Things PJ Learned in Prison
10. There is no 10 o’clock break in prison Ulpan
9. I am not saying that I escaped from prison, I am just saying that in the future, people may or may not be exploring PJ-Kiah’s tunnel.
8. The only difference between being behind bars in jail and being in bars on Ben Yehuda street is that people in jail have better bathing habits.
7. There are surprisingly few other people in jail with the name PJ.
6. If you don’t give them the information they require of you, you have to watch a video of Condoleeza Rice and Benjamin Netanyahu making out in a hot tub.
5. There are better ways to break the ice with the other prisoners than by saying “Hey guys, I’m American.”
4. Ahh, so this is what the other side of the mechitza looks like!
3. In Israeli prisons, you get the same kind of abuse as in America, only here it is from right to left.
2. They arrested me because they needed a Rabbinical student to lead their Shabbat services. They let me go when they found out I was Reform.
1. Prison? I thought I was at Jerusalem day!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Welcome to Graduate School, Professional School, and Seminary
It's going to be a busy year ahead of me - a realization that becomes more and more clear everyday I am at school. I finally found out the truth behind all the rumors about what the Fall semester is going to look like, so here it is....
Not all my major courses will be taught in Hebrew - only my Hebrew courses will be taught in Hebrew. I'll also take Rabbinics or Bible (one in the Fall, one in the Spring), History, Israel Seminar and Liturgy. I'll have a weekly Professional Forum that will address major Contemporary Issues within Reform Judaism and explore Life Cycle ceremonies. In addition, I'll be taking enrichment courses after the High Holidays in four, six week sections: Jewish Music, Torah Cantillation, Haftarah Cantillation, and High Holy Day Prep. I am going to be participating in the Community Choir on Tuesday nights (possibly as my 2-4 hr/wk community service requirement) and do a community service project (TBA, more in detail once I find out).
Classes will be long days...8:30-4:30 or 8:30-6....
I'm going to learn ALOT but will ENJOY every minute of it.
More to come once I find out more details on the Fall...
PJ
Not all my major courses will be taught in Hebrew - only my Hebrew courses will be taught in Hebrew. I'll also take Rabbinics or Bible (one in the Fall, one in the Spring), History, Israel Seminar and Liturgy. I'll have a weekly Professional Forum that will address major Contemporary Issues within Reform Judaism and explore Life Cycle ceremonies. In addition, I'll be taking enrichment courses after the High Holidays in four, six week sections: Jewish Music, Torah Cantillation, Haftarah Cantillation, and High Holy Day Prep. I am going to be participating in the Community Choir on Tuesday nights (possibly as my 2-4 hr/wk community service requirement) and do a community service project (TBA, more in detail once I find out).
Classes will be long days...8:30-4:30 or 8:30-6....
I'm going to learn ALOT but will ENJOY every minute of it.
More to come once I find out more details on the Fall...
PJ
Friday, August 3, 2007
I "New" That
As the summer semester comes to a near close (19 days!), the feel around HUC is changing. No longer is HUC new to all of us, and a routine is starting to form. We have had a variety of liturgy and synagogue skills workshops to ensure that every classmate is on the same page - I now have had a general introduction to the entire Blessing after the Meal, the traditional Havdallah (ending of Shabbat) service, and Kiddush (blessing of the Sabbath wine). I'll learn about the Torah (its blessings, dressing and undressing, etc.), putting on teffilin (the leather phylactaries traditional Jews wear), and other synagogue skills. Come the High Holy Days we'll take a step back from regular study and learn about rituals related to Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). While liturgy and ritual is something that I am not strong at, I have had a general understanding of basic prayers and rituals all of my life. Now, as I both review and learn new things, I realize the complexity of a prayer and am beginning to understand the "why" rather than the "how."
During my break I plan on also exploring the "why" and "how" on what I know will be a powerful experience. I am travelling to Auschwitz, and while I don't want to say that I am excited to go, I am patiently waiting to have such an opportunity of a lifetime. The understanding of evil and suffering in the world is something I have tried to tackle before, and going to a place where the greatest evils occurred definitely will provide insight into the matter.
As solemn as my trip will be, it seems to be a fitting transition from the summer to fall. I'll be challenged to ask questions and reconcile with these issues, which is something that I will do a lot as a rabbi. This fall, my schedule will change dramatically - I'll be taking Hebrew (Classical and Modern), Liturgy, Rabbinic Literature or Bible, and History of Israel. In addition, I will participate in 2-4 hours of community service a week. The big surprise is this: my Hebrew, Liturgy, and Bible course will all be taught in Hebrew, based on my current Hebrew level. It's going to be an intense year, but I definitely am looking forward to it!
Okay, I'm off to finish cleaning my apartment because I'm having 20 people over for Shabbat dinner tonight...I'm getting my camera soon, so pictures will come ASAP.
PJ
During my break I plan on also exploring the "why" and "how" on what I know will be a powerful experience. I am travelling to Auschwitz, and while I don't want to say that I am excited to go, I am patiently waiting to have such an opportunity of a lifetime. The understanding of evil and suffering in the world is something I have tried to tackle before, and going to a place where the greatest evils occurred definitely will provide insight into the matter.
As solemn as my trip will be, it seems to be a fitting transition from the summer to fall. I'll be challenged to ask questions and reconcile with these issues, which is something that I will do a lot as a rabbi. This fall, my schedule will change dramatically - I'll be taking Hebrew (Classical and Modern), Liturgy, Rabbinic Literature or Bible, and History of Israel. In addition, I will participate in 2-4 hours of community service a week. The big surprise is this: my Hebrew, Liturgy, and Bible course will all be taught in Hebrew, based on my current Hebrew level. It's going to be an intense year, but I definitely am looking forward to it!
Okay, I'm off to finish cleaning my apartment because I'm having 20 people over for Shabbat dinner tonight...I'm getting my camera soon, so pictures will come ASAP.
PJ
Walking the Bible
It's hard to believe that I have already been in Israel for six weeks! It seems fitting, then, that perhaps my most spiritual experience in Israel has occurred this week. The focus of this week's Jerusalem Days programming was the Second Temple Period - both the glory and destruction on one of the most important periods in Jewish history. During the Second Temple period, Jerusalem was at its height - but eventually fell to destruction by the Romans.
Each Jerusalem Day is meant to bring the Bible to life, but yesterday seemed to do so more than any other trip we have had thus far. As I walked through the Dung Gate to arrive near the Temple Mount location, one could see the Dome of the Rock. I got chills knowing that below the Muslim influence of archecture and faith, lie history, both unknown and known of the Jewish people. Beneath the Dome of the Rock is Mount Moriah, where Abraham may have nearly sacrificed his son, Isaac. Now a Muslim Museum and a Mosque, the area next to the Dome was originally the Temple Mount. One can see how massive the structure truly was, as stones and rocks weighing tons lay on top of one another. Rocks from the original destruction are on the ground, with people performing Bar Mitzvahs at the wall. Stairs that led up to the Temple Mount are still intact, as well as ritual baths used to purify oneself before give a sacrifice to the Holy of Holies. We walked the Western Wall tunnels where original stones from the time of Herod are still the foundation for the remnants of the wall, we could see the original city beneath current Jerusalem, and walked below the approximate location of where the chamber for the Holy of Holies was.
I got constant chills throughout the day and felt and overwhelming amount of emotion. For some reason yesterday I felt so connected to Israel and the history behind it. The purpose of this year is for us find our own Judaism and determine Israel's relationship to it, and yesterday truly served that purpose.
I'll update more later on what the Fall semester is going to look like and the amazing opportunities that lie ahead!
PJ
Each Jerusalem Day is meant to bring the Bible to life, but yesterday seemed to do so more than any other trip we have had thus far. As I walked through the Dung Gate to arrive near the Temple Mount location, one could see the Dome of the Rock. I got chills knowing that below the Muslim influence of archecture and faith, lie history, both unknown and known of the Jewish people. Beneath the Dome of the Rock is Mount Moriah, where Abraham may have nearly sacrificed his son, Isaac. Now a Muslim Museum and a Mosque, the area next to the Dome was originally the Temple Mount. One can see how massive the structure truly was, as stones and rocks weighing tons lay on top of one another. Rocks from the original destruction are on the ground, with people performing Bar Mitzvahs at the wall. Stairs that led up to the Temple Mount are still intact, as well as ritual baths used to purify oneself before give a sacrifice to the Holy of Holies. We walked the Western Wall tunnels where original stones from the time of Herod are still the foundation for the remnants of the wall, we could see the original city beneath current Jerusalem, and walked below the approximate location of where the chamber for the Holy of Holies was.
I got constant chills throughout the day and felt and overwhelming amount of emotion. For some reason yesterday I felt so connected to Israel and the history behind it. The purpose of this year is for us find our own Judaism and determine Israel's relationship to it, and yesterday truly served that purpose.
I'll update more later on what the Fall semester is going to look like and the amazing opportunities that lie ahead!
PJ
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Jerusalem Days
View of Jerusalem from the Tayelet Promenade.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself into the study of Torah is to actually go to the places that the Torah refers to. During the summer session of HUC, every Thursday is devoted to travelling throughout Jerusalem to explore the world of Abraham to the Davidic-Solomic Empire, study the reign of King Hezekiah, and learn about the outside influences that helped shape Jerusalem today.
Last week, we began our tiyul (trip) at the Tayelet, a promenade overlooking the walls of the Old City. To the left, one can view the mountains and desert of Jordan where Moses looked out into the Promised Land. Straight ahead, one can see the Dome of the Rock and Mount Moriah, where Abraham nearly sacrificed his son Issac.
We continued our journey to the City of David, the early Jerusalem. Near the city, we walked in Hezekiah's Tunnel, a water tunnel that ends at the location of a pool, the Shiloach, where many individuals wash their sins away on Yom Kippur.
This week, we travelled to the First Temple Period of Jerusalem and viewed early burial and sacrificial sites. We studied in the Hinnom Valley that was practically an international highway system to the Dead Sea. We climbed up Mount Zion to the Old City to learn more about the lasting survival of Jerusalem despite its many destructions.
Next week, we'll head to Israel Museum where we will view artificats and early recordings of the history of this spiritual city. More to come!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
The Art of Jewish Prayer (Week 1, Part 2)
So how does a rabbi learn all the stuff he needs to learn? Well, he prays.
I keep mentioning that I need to learn my liturgy. There are so many prayers and tunes to these prayers that I don't know, and this is the year to learn it. But, how? Well, I indeed, will pray.
Every Tuesday morning during the summer ulpan semester various faculty and adminstration leads our class in teffilah, prayer. As we learned the other day, however, we won't always actually have a "service." For example, Rabbi Michael Marmur, Dean of the Rabbinical School, spent a session on examining the prayer Modeh Ani, a prayer that thanks God for allowing us to wake up and having our souls return to us. While sleep is something that I value, our ancestors used to fear sleep because they were afraid that they would die. Nevertheless, this prayer often is sung during morning services. We examined Modeh Ani through the eyes of Abraham Joshua Heschel, a prominent rabbi and philosopher. The lesson to be learned is that our individual prayers are integrally related to those of others, and the intent of our prayers affect if they will be answered.
In addition, beginning this Wednesday, I will participate in Ritual Workshop that will focus on particular rituals in the Jewish tradition. More to come on this.
Finally ... if I don't have enough opportunities to learn liturgy, I am helping lead the Tisha B'Av service this coming Monday, commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temple (and other horrible events that occurred on the 9th day of the Jewish month of Av). I have decided to audition for the High Holy Day Choir as well -I will learn the High Holy Day service, work on my voice, and possibly learn to read basic music. I am joining the Tefillah Committee to help assist in planning student-led services and events. And ... most of the class will participate in the FSU Project (Former Soviet Union), where we will travel to Russia during Pesach (Passover) to lead seders. In preparation for this project, I will learn how to lead the seder (and will learn basic Russian).
Yeah, its a lot of stuff. It will keep me busy, fresh, and ready to learn. So something tells me I might know my liturgy at the end of the year, and by the way ...
Guess what course I am taking come September? You got, it, Liturgy!
I keep mentioning that I need to learn my liturgy. There are so many prayers and tunes to these prayers that I don't know, and this is the year to learn it. But, how? Well, I indeed, will pray.
Every Tuesday morning during the summer ulpan semester various faculty and adminstration leads our class in teffilah, prayer. As we learned the other day, however, we won't always actually have a "service." For example, Rabbi Michael Marmur, Dean of the Rabbinical School, spent a session on examining the prayer Modeh Ani, a prayer that thanks God for allowing us to wake up and having our souls return to us. While sleep is something that I value, our ancestors used to fear sleep because they were afraid that they would die. Nevertheless, this prayer often is sung during morning services. We examined Modeh Ani through the eyes of Abraham Joshua Heschel, a prominent rabbi and philosopher. The lesson to be learned is that our individual prayers are integrally related to those of others, and the intent of our prayers affect if they will be answered.
In addition, beginning this Wednesday, I will participate in Ritual Workshop that will focus on particular rituals in the Jewish tradition. More to come on this.
Finally ... if I don't have enough opportunities to learn liturgy, I am helping lead the Tisha B'Av service this coming Monday, commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temple (and other horrible events that occurred on the 9th day of the Jewish month of Av). I have decided to audition for the High Holy Day Choir as well -I will learn the High Holy Day service, work on my voice, and possibly learn to read basic music. I am joining the Tefillah Committee to help assist in planning student-led services and events. And ... most of the class will participate in the FSU Project (Former Soviet Union), where we will travel to Russia during Pesach (Passover) to lead seders. In preparation for this project, I will learn how to lead the seder (and will learn basic Russian).
Yeah, its a lot of stuff. It will keep me busy, fresh, and ready to learn. So something tells me I might know my liturgy at the end of the year, and by the way ...
Guess what course I am taking come September? You got, it, Liturgy!
Friday, July 20, 2007
Week 1, Part 1
This weekend marks my first full month in Jerusalem - it's amazing how quickly it has passed and how much has already been done (and how much more there is to accomplish!). The greatest lesson I have learned this month is that the Rabbinical Program, especially the Year in Israel, prepares one for their lives as Jewish professionals more outside the classroom than inside the classroom. We all have challenges in our lives that tests our dignity and our capacity to overcome stressful moments. HUC is quite aware that they admitted 53 type A personalities who all at their weakest moments will clash because of their type A personalities. Yet, as a community, and as individuals, we can truly shine.
I remember during orientation how we were told that we are the "gateway" to Judaism. While many charge Reform Judaism as a faith that brings people out of tradition, in many respects we are truly allowing people in (especially those who wouldn't be as accepted in other communities, i.e. homosexuals). I have chosen a path where I am part of the future of Judaism - and with the changes that lie ahead, these challenges that I have today are great preparation for the rest of my life. Whether it be questioning whether to wear a kippah in non-kosher restaurants or supporting friends in times of need or even just learning how to recieve a discount on property tax for apartments in Jerusalem, EVERYTHING here is a lesson to be learned. Israel is going to force me to let go of attempting to control all my surroundings and sometimes just go with the flow - the Rabbinical program truly helps ground you (which is a much more exciting experience than having sand bags placed on your feet for at least 5 hours in cold lake water ... that's another story for another day, but if you know my father, you understand his unique ways of teaching me things ... but yeah, it happened, and yeah ... it really worked).
School is in full throttle (and it is funny that is actuality, it really isn't because the summer is much more laid back). Classes started last Sunday and ulpan is going well. I've been placed in Hebrew Alef, but after a fiasco about Hebrew placement it seems that there is not much of a difference between Alef and Bet, as we all scored within 10 points of each other on the placement exam. Nevertheless, I am sticking with Alef because it gives me the opportunity to re-learn old material in a different way (that is, she teaches the class in 80% Hebrew), strengthen my weaknesses, and learn new vocabulary. The teacher is absolutely wonderful and she's really wanting us to succeed - and if I work hard and study hard, I can be placed in a higher Hebrew class come fall.
Next entry: All about Teffilah (prayer) and Jerusalem Days (with pictures borrowed from friends, because my camera isn't working!)
And finally part 3 (if needed): Extra Curriculars
I remember during orientation how we were told that we are the "gateway" to Judaism. While many charge Reform Judaism as a faith that brings people out of tradition, in many respects we are truly allowing people in (especially those who wouldn't be as accepted in other communities, i.e. homosexuals). I have chosen a path where I am part of the future of Judaism - and with the changes that lie ahead, these challenges that I have today are great preparation for the rest of my life. Whether it be questioning whether to wear a kippah in non-kosher restaurants or supporting friends in times of need or even just learning how to recieve a discount on property tax for apartments in Jerusalem, EVERYTHING here is a lesson to be learned. Israel is going to force me to let go of attempting to control all my surroundings and sometimes just go with the flow - the Rabbinical program truly helps ground you (which is a much more exciting experience than having sand bags placed on your feet for at least 5 hours in cold lake water ... that's another story for another day, but if you know my father, you understand his unique ways of teaching me things ... but yeah, it happened, and yeah ... it really worked).
School is in full throttle (and it is funny that is actuality, it really isn't because the summer is much more laid back). Classes started last Sunday and ulpan is going well. I've been placed in Hebrew Alef, but after a fiasco about Hebrew placement it seems that there is not much of a difference between Alef and Bet, as we all scored within 10 points of each other on the placement exam. Nevertheless, I am sticking with Alef because it gives me the opportunity to re-learn old material in a different way (that is, she teaches the class in 80% Hebrew), strengthen my weaknesses, and learn new vocabulary. The teacher is absolutely wonderful and she's really wanting us to succeed - and if I work hard and study hard, I can be placed in a higher Hebrew class come fall.
Next entry: All about Teffilah (prayer) and Jerusalem Days (with pictures borrowed from friends, because my camera isn't working!)
And finally part 3 (if needed): Extra Curriculars
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Shabbat in Jerusalem
Every Shabbat in Jerusalem is very much the same, yet very different. Around 4 PM every Friday Jerusalem suddenly just stops. There are few cars in the road, stores are closed, and there is this level of peacefulness that emerges. Shabbat here is truly a day of rest - a halt from the mundane reality of things.
This Shabbat was very HUC-filled. On Friday, we arrived early to have a pre-Shabbat seminar with Rabbi Kelman, the Year in Israel Director. We explored major sections of the Torah that referenced Shabbat and discussed and examined the little description their is about this sacred day. We then proceeded to one of the gardens on campus in smaller groups to share our Shabbat memories. Perhaps one of my favorite memories is very recent - in April, my 7th grade Religious School class led services. Rather than present a D'var Torah (sermon), the students came to the bimah ("stage") and stated why they were Jewish. Many of them expressed their reasons without stating the age-old answer: because my parents are. Hearing 13 year old verbalize their connection to Judaism has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in the Jewish world.
Following the activity, we attended services and a dinner sponsored by an HUC alumnus. It's been an alumni filled week here, as the President of the College, Board of Trustees, and influential alumni have been present in our orientation. On Saturday morning, services were held in the Blaustein Hall, a huge conference/event hall overlooking the Old City. Not only is the view amazing (I will take a picture eventually and post it), but it was such a spiritual experience to attend services with a background such as the Old City.
My Shabbat afternoon was quite relaxing - I talked to my parents, organized my room, took a walk, and napped before we had a Havdallah reception (with gelato ice cream I might add).
School starts tomorrow - my lunch is packed, notebook is in my bookbag, and I'm ready to learn! I'll let you know how it goes in the next couple days....
PJ
This Shabbat was very HUC-filled. On Friday, we arrived early to have a pre-Shabbat seminar with Rabbi Kelman, the Year in Israel Director. We explored major sections of the Torah that referenced Shabbat and discussed and examined the little description their is about this sacred day. We then proceeded to one of the gardens on campus in smaller groups to share our Shabbat memories. Perhaps one of my favorite memories is very recent - in April, my 7th grade Religious School class led services. Rather than present a D'var Torah (sermon), the students came to the bimah ("stage") and stated why they were Jewish. Many of them expressed their reasons without stating the age-old answer: because my parents are. Hearing 13 year old verbalize their connection to Judaism has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in the Jewish world.
Following the activity, we attended services and a dinner sponsored by an HUC alumnus. It's been an alumni filled week here, as the President of the College, Board of Trustees, and influential alumni have been present in our orientation. On Saturday morning, services were held in the Blaustein Hall, a huge conference/event hall overlooking the Old City. Not only is the view amazing (I will take a picture eventually and post it), but it was such a spiritual experience to attend services with a background such as the Old City.
My Shabbat afternoon was quite relaxing - I talked to my parents, organized my room, took a walk, and napped before we had a Havdallah reception (with gelato ice cream I might add).
School starts tomorrow - my lunch is packed, notebook is in my bookbag, and I'm ready to learn! I'll let you know how it goes in the next couple days....
PJ
Friday, July 13, 2007
Finding a Teffilat Ha Derech
The final session of my first day of orientation was a group activity in which we explored three different accounts of the Teffilat Ha Derech ("The Traveler's Prayer") , a prayer recited by one who is on a personal journey. A version of this prayer is below:
May it be Your will, Hashem, our God and the God of our ancestors, that You lead us toward peace, guide our footsteps toward peace, and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness, and peace. May You rescue us from the hand of every foe, ambush along the way, and from all manner of punishments that assemble to come to earth. May You send blessing in our handywork, and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us. May You hear the sound of our humble request because You are God Who hears prayer requests. Blessed are You, Hashem, Who hears prayer.
After discussing each version of each prayer we were asked to write our own:
God give me the strength to overcome my fears, the courage to act with dignity, and the opportunity to embrace and enjoy my journey.
This mantra, while short, truly reminded me of how much I have learned from my family. Mom, Dad, and Austin - I miss you every day, and while you are not here, our table talk discussions still are part of my life :)
Yesterday, the Vice President of Strategic Planning came to talk with our group. He emphasized the fact that each of us has something unique to share, and that our education at HUC will fill in the blanks of things we don't know. HUC President David Ellenson reminded us that we will have to work hard, but to choose this journey is a blessing.
I am being taught by some amazing people, and am working with pioneers in Jewish life. Whether it be stateside where I will learn from famous Judaic scholars, or here in Jerusalem where the Director of the Year in Israel Program was the first Women Progressive Rabbi in Israel and is related to the individual who made the deciding vote of the Columbus Platform (through Reform history, there have been various platforms that outline the theology of the Reform Movement), I am becoming part of an elite group who embraces Judaism in a way I have never been exposed to.
We also found out yesterday that the Cincinnati Campus is undergoing a 12 million dollar renovation for a new, state of the art library that will be completed in two years. Technologically, video courses will allow students to have access to scholars that they might now otherwise. Beginning in September, students will have access to various Hebrew wordprocessing databases, Biblical databases that allows you to search for words, phrases, or ideas, and it tells you how many times it appears in the Bible.
This weekend will be a special one. Alumni are in town and will be joining us for Shabbat at HUC. I'll fill you in later.
PJ
May it be Your will, Hashem, our God and the God of our ancestors, that You lead us toward peace, guide our footsteps toward peace, and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness, and peace. May You rescue us from the hand of every foe, ambush along the way, and from all manner of punishments that assemble to come to earth. May You send blessing in our handywork, and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us. May You hear the sound of our humble request because You are God Who hears prayer requests. Blessed are You, Hashem, Who hears prayer.
After discussing each version of each prayer we were asked to write our own:
God give me the strength to overcome my fears, the courage to act with dignity, and the opportunity to embrace and enjoy my journey.
This mantra, while short, truly reminded me of how much I have learned from my family. Mom, Dad, and Austin - I miss you every day, and while you are not here, our table talk discussions still are part of my life :)
Yesterday, the Vice President of Strategic Planning came to talk with our group. He emphasized the fact that each of us has something unique to share, and that our education at HUC will fill in the blanks of things we don't know. HUC President David Ellenson reminded us that we will have to work hard, but to choose this journey is a blessing.
I am being taught by some amazing people, and am working with pioneers in Jewish life. Whether it be stateside where I will learn from famous Judaic scholars, or here in Jerusalem where the Director of the Year in Israel Program was the first Women Progressive Rabbi in Israel and is related to the individual who made the deciding vote of the Columbus Platform (through Reform history, there have been various platforms that outline the theology of the Reform Movement), I am becoming part of an elite group who embraces Judaism in a way I have never been exposed to.
We also found out yesterday that the Cincinnati Campus is undergoing a 12 million dollar renovation for a new, state of the art library that will be completed in two years. Technologically, video courses will allow students to have access to scholars that they might now otherwise. Beginning in September, students will have access to various Hebrew wordprocessing databases, Biblical databases that allows you to search for words, phrases, or ideas, and it tells you how many times it appears in the Bible.
This weekend will be a special one. Alumni are in town and will be joining us for Shabbat at HUC. I'll fill you in later.
PJ
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
You are the Gateway to Judaism
As I participated in Shacharit Services this morning and for the first time the entire HUC class of 2012 (Rabbis, Cantors, and Jewish Educators) chanted the Shehekeyanu, I got goosebumps. It was made clear to us throughout today that we are embarking on an adventure - it is our responsibility to embrace this journey and soak in everything that comes our way.
The Rabbinical Program at HUC is not only a seminary, but also a professional and graduate school. These elements are encompassed by our immersion to the Hebrew language, participation in Israel (through text study, field trips, and community service), workshops (Reform Jewish Liturgy, leading services, chanting Torah, and writing a sermon), and exploration of history (Rabbinic Literature, Jewish Thought).
On Sunday, I begin my immersion program to the Hebrew language. I was told that there was no way I would be fluent in Hebrew at the end of the year, simply because I will be learning so many different "Hebrews:" Modern, Ancient, Rabbinic, Liturgical ... the list goes on. My immersion to Hebrew will never end - it is a lifetime experience.
Nevertheless, I have been placed in Hebrew Alef, so the only direction I can go in my Hebrew ability is up. While it will be no less difficult than the other levels, it starts you from the beginning and you have plenty of space to improve.
In addition to my Ulpan, I will attend a "My Israel" Series where Israeli Rabbinic Students talk about their experiences in Israel and the Progressive Jewish Movement. On next Thursday, I will travel to the Tayelet, a Promenade with a view of the Old City that's amazing. In addition, I will go to Warren's Shaft and Hezekiah's Tunnel, both locations which played a role in early Israel Monarchy...
So yeah...I am kinda excited :)
More to come!
PJ
The Rabbinical Program at HUC is not only a seminary, but also a professional and graduate school. These elements are encompassed by our immersion to the Hebrew language, participation in Israel (through text study, field trips, and community service), workshops (Reform Jewish Liturgy, leading services, chanting Torah, and writing a sermon), and exploration of history (Rabbinic Literature, Jewish Thought).
On Sunday, I begin my immersion program to the Hebrew language. I was told that there was no way I would be fluent in Hebrew at the end of the year, simply because I will be learning so many different "Hebrews:" Modern, Ancient, Rabbinic, Liturgical ... the list goes on. My immersion to Hebrew will never end - it is a lifetime experience.
Nevertheless, I have been placed in Hebrew Alef, so the only direction I can go in my Hebrew ability is up. While it will be no less difficult than the other levels, it starts you from the beginning and you have plenty of space to improve.
In addition to my Ulpan, I will attend a "My Israel" Series where Israeli Rabbinic Students talk about their experiences in Israel and the Progressive Jewish Movement. On next Thursday, I will travel to the Tayelet, a Promenade with a view of the Old City that's amazing. In addition, I will go to Warren's Shaft and Hezekiah's Tunnel, both locations which played a role in early Israel Monarchy...
So yeah...I am kinda excited :)
More to come!
PJ
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
The Journey Formally Begins Today
Well, it is safe to say that I have internet in my new apartment and the only thing left is to set up Vonage and get that working. It is extremely nice though to wake up and be able to check e-mail!
For the remainder of the week, I have a formal orientation to HUC and the Year in Israel Program. I'll learn more about the adventure to come and school will officially be in session. Sunday begins ulpan, and I really am hoping to be placed in Hebrew Alef, the first level, not because it will be easier than the other levels, but Hebrew Alef teachers are known to be the best and students are known to demonstrate the most improvement. I'll also begin to explore Jerusalem more in depth next week, going to sites where Jewish history still is vibrant.
I'll update more later, I'm off to morning services!
PJ
For the remainder of the week, I have a formal orientation to HUC and the Year in Israel Program. I'll learn more about the adventure to come and school will officially be in session. Sunday begins ulpan, and I really am hoping to be placed in Hebrew Alef, the first level, not because it will be easier than the other levels, but Hebrew Alef teachers are known to be the best and students are known to demonstrate the most improvement. I'll also begin to explore Jerusalem more in depth next week, going to sites where Jewish history still is vibrant.
I'll update more later, I'm off to morning services!
PJ
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Transition: It Can Be A Blessing
Things have been quite hectic and overwhelming lately here in Israel, but at the same time quite amazing and spiritually uplifting.
This past weekend I spent my first Shabbat in Israel, and it was during this Shabbat that I learned of an even broader range of practice within Reform Judaism. "Progressive" Judaism, as Israelis call it, incorporates many dynamics of more traditional religious practice (i.e. the use of no power on Shabbat, eating Kosher, and demonstrating a clear division of the service itself with prayers that I had never been exposed to). My classmates as well range from individuals who have grown up using their cell phones on Shabbat to those who keep Shabbat as if they were Orthodox. My point is not to separate my classmates or Israelis from what I am used to, but to stress that the great thing about Reform Judaism is that one can define their faith the way they feel is best.
Sunday I moved into my new apartment - things have been stressful as I am still trying to get internet (I am using wireless at a friend's house as we speak), making my room feel more at home, and buying the essentials for my home for the year. I hope that within another week or so I will have everything set up - including Vonage! Nevertheless, things are falling into place.
One of the biggest struggles that I will have is learning the liturgy. There are so many prayers that I don't know, and I definitely feel that I need to catch up. There are morning services at HUC almost every day and I am slowly understanding the format. We are using the new Mishkan Teffilah prayer book which is awesome! The good news is this: I am working with a fifth year rabbinical school student who is serving as an intern to help ease the transition to Israel. She is going to be teaching me some of the liturgy. Also, one of my classes beginning in Sept. is Liturgy - I will learn Orthodox, Conversative, and Reform structure of services and prayers and by then I'll be set!
School/Orientation officially begins next Tuesday....more details to come on what I will be doing for the next two months.
Talk to you soon!
PJ
This past weekend I spent my first Shabbat in Israel, and it was during this Shabbat that I learned of an even broader range of practice within Reform Judaism. "Progressive" Judaism, as Israelis call it, incorporates many dynamics of more traditional religious practice (i.e. the use of no power on Shabbat, eating Kosher, and demonstrating a clear division of the service itself with prayers that I had never been exposed to). My classmates as well range from individuals who have grown up using their cell phones on Shabbat to those who keep Shabbat as if they were Orthodox. My point is not to separate my classmates or Israelis from what I am used to, but to stress that the great thing about Reform Judaism is that one can define their faith the way they feel is best.
Sunday I moved into my new apartment - things have been stressful as I am still trying to get internet (I am using wireless at a friend's house as we speak), making my room feel more at home, and buying the essentials for my home for the year. I hope that within another week or so I will have everything set up - including Vonage! Nevertheless, things are falling into place.
One of the biggest struggles that I will have is learning the liturgy. There are so many prayers that I don't know, and I definitely feel that I need to catch up. There are morning services at HUC almost every day and I am slowly understanding the format. We are using the new Mishkan Teffilah prayer book which is awesome! The good news is this: I am working with a fifth year rabbinical school student who is serving as an intern to help ease the transition to Israel. She is going to be teaching me some of the liturgy. Also, one of my classes beginning in Sept. is Liturgy - I will learn Orthodox, Conversative, and Reform structure of services and prayers and by then I'll be set!
School/Orientation officially begins next Tuesday....more details to come on what I will be doing for the next two months.
Talk to you soon!
PJ
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Home is Where the Heart Is
It's been a crazy week here in Israel, adjusting to the food, culture, and time difference. I am finally starting to find my way around town and have been fortunate to have things go very smoothly. I've walked at least 15 miles since I got here - whether it be to the Old City (where I prayed at the Kotel, the Western Wall, for the first time) or Ben Yehuda Street (where you can shop and eat till you drop) or the Shuk (where everything you need and more can be bartered and is cheaper than everywhere else).
The wonderful news is that I found an apartment about 10 minutes from campus, located near a supermarket and ATM (which is very convenient!). It's a 3 bedroom apartment with a kitchen, living area, A/C, washer/dryer, and the rooms are relatively large in size. My landlord is this very nice old man who has worked with me in making the lease 11 months (rather than 12, as we leave no later than May 26), and we don't have to pay in advance (many apartments here require you to pay up to 5 months in advance, which is difficult because there is a withdrawel limit at ATM machines). I move in on Sunday, and hopefully by Wednesday of next week I will have settled in and made a home for myself.
I am meeting my roommates this afternoon, one male and one female, one rabbinical student and one Jewish Education student respectively. Tonight I'll attend the 1st birthday party of a cantorial student's daughter and go to a local bar with the class of 2012!
I'm getting more and more excited each day as I experience Jerusalem at its best!
PJ
The wonderful news is that I found an apartment about 10 minutes from campus, located near a supermarket and ATM (which is very convenient!). It's a 3 bedroom apartment with a kitchen, living area, A/C, washer/dryer, and the rooms are relatively large in size. My landlord is this very nice old man who has worked with me in making the lease 11 months (rather than 12, as we leave no later than May 26), and we don't have to pay in advance (many apartments here require you to pay up to 5 months in advance, which is difficult because there is a withdrawel limit at ATM machines). I move in on Sunday, and hopefully by Wednesday of next week I will have settled in and made a home for myself.
I am meeting my roommates this afternoon, one male and one female, one rabbinical student and one Jewish Education student respectively. Tonight I'll attend the 1st birthday party of a cantorial student's daughter and go to a local bar with the class of 2012!
I'm getting more and more excited each day as I experience Jerusalem at its best!
PJ
Monday, June 25, 2007
I Don't Have Jet Lag...Really
Well, I made it to Israel safe and sound! Things went surprisingly smoothly - I arrived to Jerusalem last night at 8:00 and took and adventure to the supermarket (I've learned that the best way to figure out what you are buying without knowing Hebrew is to look at the box...if it's familiar, its good!), and wandered around to Ben Yehuda Street (a Market area that has a huge social scene at around midnight), and bought myself a nice birthday present: 2 kippot and a Star of David necklace. I didn't fall asleep until 2 am, but got about 5 hours of sleep.
This morning I went to HUC to check in and introduce myself and I already felt at home. I met the interns, fifth year rabbinical school students, who are here to help the class (53 of us) adjust to our new lives. Over the next few weeks there will be lots of events going on with them.
The good news: I am off to check out an apartment tomorrow :) Hopefully it will all work out. If it does, I'll have a place on July 2 and hopefully have my own place set up before orientation!
I'll update more later...I miss you all.
PJ
This morning I went to HUC to check in and introduce myself and I already felt at home. I met the interns, fifth year rabbinical school students, who are here to help the class (53 of us) adjust to our new lives. Over the next few weeks there will be lots of events going on with them.
The good news: I am off to check out an apartment tomorrow :) Hopefully it will all work out. If it does, I'll have a place on July 2 and hopefully have my own place set up before orientation!
I'll update more later...I miss you all.
PJ
Friday, June 22, 2007
Bon Voyage
Well, the moment has finally come for me to finish packing my bags and head to Israel. Two days from now I will have safely arrived in Jerusalem after an 11 hour, 45 minute plane flight from Atlanta, Georgia. It will be nice, though, to spend one last day with the family - we are leaving bright and early tomorrow morning to relax over coffee at a spa about 45 minutes outside of Atlanta while my Dad receives a tennis lesson. We'll grab a bite to eat for lunch, and go to one of the nation's newest aquariums in Downtown Atlanta. I'll have my final meal with my parents and check in at the airport around 7. I am very fortunately to be travelling with one of my classmates' who is bringing his wife and daughter with him, and I will be staying with them until I find an apartment.
Classes and Orientation doesn't officially begin until July 10, but I will be quite busy -- searching for the apartment, buying random appliances for the apartment, exploring Israel, and participating in a variety of pre-orientation activities with my new classmates and future colleagues.
I'll likely not be able to update my blog until I have adapted to my surroundings and found an apartment, but I'm really excited for the adventure to come!
PJ
Classes and Orientation doesn't officially begin until July 10, but I will be quite busy -- searching for the apartment, buying random appliances for the apartment, exploring Israel, and participating in a variety of pre-orientation activities with my new classmates and future colleagues.
I'll likely not be able to update my blog until I have adapted to my surroundings and found an apartment, but I'm really excited for the adventure to come!
PJ
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
I Am Going to Need Winter Clothes
Over the past few weeks, I have been frantically getting ready for Israel. In the midst of finding luggage, clothes, and random accessories needed for the trip, I have FINALLY found out that I have been placed at the Cincinnati campus of HUC when I return to the states. Cincinnati is the historic center of Reform Judaism where Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise first established the Union of Reform Judaism in 1873, a huge reason why I have been wanted to attend this campus. When I went for my interview, I was welcomed by the students, enjoyed the small community, and felt very comfortable in such a wonderful environment. Leading scholars and rabbis whose books I have been using as guides in my studies teach in Cincinnati, and this campus is the heart of the movement's progressive decisions in contemporary issues. I'm thrilled to be able to attend the campus, and for the first time in my life I will experience what winter really is like! When I was in Cincinnati in March it was in the 3o's and I was freezing, but I am quite aware that it definitely gets colder!
I have only 10 days until I begin my journey, and the excitement and nervousness continues to grow!
I'll speak to all of you soon,
PJ
I have only 10 days until I begin my journey, and the excitement and nervousness continues to grow!
I'll speak to all of you soon,
PJ
Monday, June 4, 2007
I'll Be Rabbi PJ in Five Years
Dear Friends and Family,
Many of you have asked me to keep in touch with you during my Year in Israel, so I figured that this would be an easy way to share with you my experiences and post pictures.
I'm quite excited and thrilled to finally be able to say that in five years I will be ordained as a Rabbi in the Reform movement. As many of you know, I will be assigned to one of three campuses when I return to the states: Los Angeles, New York, or Cincinnati. I will know in a few weeks which campus I will be placed at, but I am hoping that I will spend the remainder of Rabbinical School in Cincinnati. During my interview, I was welcomed with open arms and already felt "home."
I offically leave for Israel on June 23. In the meantime, I will spend the next weeks in Greenville spending time with family and enjoying the little break that I have. Fortunately, I recently met one of my classmates who will be travelling on the same flight with me! In addition, he graciously offered to let me stay at his apartment with his wife and daughter while I spend my first couple weeks in Israel searching for an apartment. I do, however, have a 27 year old roommate who has been working in Finance and Telecommunications for the past 5 years. He will arrive a few days after me and we'll begin the search process.
The program does not actually start until July 11. I'll begin my studies with a four day orientation and then start what is called an "ulpan," an intensive, two month Hebrew course. In addition to the ulpan, I'll participate in community service projects, attend and lead services, and have field trips throughout Israel. Once I have completed the ulpan, I will begin taking courses in Biblical Hebrew, Grammar, Liturgy, Bible, and Rabbinic Literature in September. The service projects, services, and trips throughout Israel will continue throughout the entire year.
While I will not be back in the states until early June of next year, please keep in touch! I will keep my e-mail address, Gemini61415@aol.com and will also keep my phone number (864) 350-0304. I have signed up for a great service called Vonage, which allows me to keep this phone number. For $25 a month, I have unlimited international minutes and you can call me without any international fees!
I'll be sure to write as frequently as possible and look forward to sharing my journey with you.
PJ
Many of you have asked me to keep in touch with you during my Year in Israel, so I figured that this would be an easy way to share with you my experiences and post pictures.
I'm quite excited and thrilled to finally be able to say that in five years I will be ordained as a Rabbi in the Reform movement. As many of you know, I will be assigned to one of three campuses when I return to the states: Los Angeles, New York, or Cincinnati. I will know in a few weeks which campus I will be placed at, but I am hoping that I will spend the remainder of Rabbinical School in Cincinnati. During my interview, I was welcomed with open arms and already felt "home."
I offically leave for Israel on June 23. In the meantime, I will spend the next weeks in Greenville spending time with family and enjoying the little break that I have. Fortunately, I recently met one of my classmates who will be travelling on the same flight with me! In addition, he graciously offered to let me stay at his apartment with his wife and daughter while I spend my first couple weeks in Israel searching for an apartment. I do, however, have a 27 year old roommate who has been working in Finance and Telecommunications for the past 5 years. He will arrive a few days after me and we'll begin the search process.
The program does not actually start until July 11. I'll begin my studies with a four day orientation and then start what is called an "ulpan," an intensive, two month Hebrew course. In addition to the ulpan, I'll participate in community service projects, attend and lead services, and have field trips throughout Israel. Once I have completed the ulpan, I will begin taking courses in Biblical Hebrew, Grammar, Liturgy, Bible, and Rabbinic Literature in September. The service projects, services, and trips throughout Israel will continue throughout the entire year.
While I will not be back in the states until early June of next year, please keep in touch! I will keep my e-mail address, Gemini61415@aol.com and will also keep my phone number (864) 350-0304. I have signed up for a great service called Vonage, which allows me to keep this phone number. For $25 a month, I have unlimited international minutes and you can call me without any international fees!
I'll be sure to write as frequently as possible and look forward to sharing my journey with you.
PJ
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