Jewish identity is a “hot topic” (once again) this week following the release of the podcast and related materials from a March event at Brandeis University focused on Jewish Identity and Education. Data about engagement in Jewish life and the daily choices and reduced religious involvement of Millenials and individuals of all ages across all faiths has led to renewed questions, discussions, and innovations aimed at meeting people where they are and encouraging them to take steps to make the ancient relevant.
In Parshat Naso G-d invites anyone – man or woman – to make an “above and beyond” commitment of faith by stepping forward to be a nazir. Designed as a time-bound obligation (30 days), one offered sacrifices while refraining from shaving or haircuts (in the midst of Sinai wilderness heat), avoiding wine, brine, and grapes, and avoiding contact with the dead. The nazir’s hair, food choices, and amount of time spent at the altar proudly and visibly proclaimed their community and faith commitment amid a community that was together 24/7.
Most of us do not live in such a closed community today. Our daily travel, work, and school companions come from different circles and have connections beyond the context in which we encounter them. Our involvements and various aspects of our identity at times conflict with one another. A big meeting is planned for the afternoon of a child’s soccer game or dance recital; which do you attend? The company’s annual employee party is on a Friday night; do you participate or join your family for Shabbat dinner? The school is raising funds for the hungry by holding a car wash on Saturday morning; do you help or attend services? Friends (of almost any age) gossip, do you choose to join in, remain silent, or speak out?
Almost daily we face choices that impact aspects of our identity. Living a fully integrated 21st century American Jewish life is not easy. It means deciding in what ways you will be a nazir; how and when will you proudly and visibly proclaim your community and faith commitment. When will other aspects of your life take priority? And when will Jewish values and virtues guide your actions, no matter the setting or situation?
As we approach the festival of Shavuot, we prepare to stand together at Mount Sinai. We will re-commit our acceptance of Torah and our willingness to learn from all that it offers. This gift was first offered to us as a guide through the wilderness of Sinai. Its teachings are no less relevant today as we navigate through the wilderness of life’s daily choices.
I look forward to seeing you standing at Sinai next week and to noticing you in the crowd as you proudly and visibly proclaim your nazirite choices.
Prior to her position with the Grinspoon Foundation, Iris served as a synagogue educator in Syracuse NY, the Central New York PJ Library Program Coordinator and as a national consultant for PJ Library.
Iris holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education, a master’s degree in Special Education and Reading, and Advanced Certification in School Leadership and Administration. Her experience as a secular educator and educational leader in congregational and community settings spans over 20 years. She is also a lay leader in Jewish organizations on the local and national levels. Iris served as the President of CAJE – the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education, which was the largest member organization for Jewish educators in the country.
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