Celebrating Torah

Shavuot (the Festival of Weeks, also known by some people as Pentecost) celebrates the day that the Jews stood at Mount Sinai and received the Torah from G-d. This monumental event is one of the defining moments in our history. Sadly it is often one of the least observed of all Jewish holidays, probably because there is no dramatic, public tradition as there is for other special Jewish days. We don't blow the shofar; there is no Shavuot "seder" (as on Passover); no one has to ask us why we are building a sukkah.The greatest tradition associated with this holiday may also be the most important of all - studying Torah.

Studying Torah isn't usually the first mitzvah that a person thinks of when deciding to become more observant, but it may be the most important and ultimately the most practical. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.

Our Family Torah

Start now.
There is a custom on Shavuot of studying Torah late at night (Tikkun Leil Shavuot). While this may require the loss of a couple of hours of sleep, tikkun leil Shavuot is actually a great way to get to know other Jews who are interested in and committed to studying Torah.  The portions selected for study are very often "user friendly" and the rabbi (or other instructor) will be happy to answer your questions. This age-old custom may provide just the incentive you need to get started.

Don't do it alone!
I have found that there is just no substitute for studying Torah in a group setting. A knowledgeable teacher is an indispensable guide to finding your way through the sometimes confusing passages of our Sacred Text. You will also make new friends who will help you become more comfortable with learning Torah. One excellent place to start looking for a Torah Study Group is at your local synagogue. My shul sponsors a monthly Torah study lunch which is very relaxed and was where I began my trek into Torah. It has become one of our favorite family events (especially for my youngest!). (If you live in suburban Philadelphia, click here and I will send you the date of the next Torah Study Lunch.) Many communities offer courses to the Jewish public, sometimes for a nominal fee. Check with your local synagogue for group Torah Study resources in your area.

Chumash

Explore the text.
While I strongly advise joining a Torah study group, I have also found that there are passages that I just need to look into more closely. I'll read through the passage myself, jotting down my questions as I go. I bring my questions with me to the next Torah study group. Or sometimes I just ask my rabbi. If you don't own your own chumash, try to purchase one for your personal use. On the "Jewish Toolbox" page of this blog site I offer suggestions of some excellent chumashim that will become a valuable resource for your personal adventures in Torah study. Try starting with looking over the weekly parshah. (You will find it listed on the "Jewish Calendar" page of this blog site.) Read through it and note any questions that you have. Many synagogues have printed guides or Torah discussions as part of their regular Shabbat service. I have also included some links to on-line Torah study resources below.

However you choose to begin, make the commitment to start this year on Shavuot to study Torah regularly. I know you will find, as I have, that you will be generously rewarded for the effort. Hag sameach! (Happy Holiday!)



Related Links:
Shavuot (Union for Reform Judaism)
Laws and Customs of Shavuot (Chabad)
Weekly Parshah
Learning Hebrew on Shavuot ("Judaism 101")
"Torah Sparks" (Conservative)
Learning Torah (Reform)