“Lo tov – It is not good for a human to be alone.” So we are told in the very first Torah portion, Parshat Beresheet (2:18). G-d determined that Adam needed a partner – an ayzer k’negdo. While these words are often translated as “helpmate, I prefer the more literal translation offered by Biblical scholar Richard Elliot Friedman. He speaks of G-d’s realization that the Adam needed a “corresponding strength.”
We each need the corresponding strengths of others throughout our lives. Whether it is the kernel of an idea that grows bright as it is shared with colleagues, the friend that stays calm in the face of your meltdown, the spouse that is really good at directions, or the child who can make sure the DVR actually records what you want it to, our circles of colleagues, friends and families enrich our lives and help us get through each day.
We left Egypt as a mixed multitude, bringing with us people of many talents and perspectives. We stood at Mount Sinai together, each hearing Torah in a way we could understand and apply it. As we wandered through the wilderness together, the varied talents of fighters, artists, cooks, famers, hunters, and leaders ensured that needs could be met throughout the journey.
This week, as we finish the Torah reading and the Book of Leviticus we will say “Hazak, Hazak, V’Neithazek..– Be strong; be strong and together we will be strengthened.” As we chant these words, may we look around the room and scroll mentally through our “friends” list, expressing gratitude for the many corresponding strengths that support each meaningful step through our journey of life. May we be open to the gifts they share with us, and may we share our strengths, for as we do so, the community will truly be strengthened.
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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