Shabbat Nachamu 2024

“We often talk about the Shema as Jews as, like, the most important prayer. Is it a prayer at all? Good question. A statement from the Torah. Listen up, Israel: Adonai is our God, Adonai is one. Perhaps it’s a statement of faith…

“And whether you think of it as a creed, or whether you think of it as something to learn from, over and over again, or a little bit of both, ultimately, the word ‘Shema’ is how it all begins and where we all come back to.

“I think that this sense of comfort that the Prophet wishes for us on the Shabbat is one that can begin with listening. I think that this sense of comfort that we can provide one another is one that has to begin with listening.”

At Kabbalat Shabbat services, Rabbi Jason Klein explored the connection between preparing a path to the Holy One and finding comfort during times of uncertainty and isolation. He emphasized the importance of listening, including in personal relationships and political discourse, as a way to show empathy and understanding towards others.

Rabbi Klein delivered this drashah at Kabbalat Shabbat services on Friday, August 16 / 13 Av 5784.

Be in community with CBST at Kabbalat Shabbat services, Fridays at 6:30pm EST, either in person or streaming live.

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