This month, on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar, we commemorate Lag BaOmer which marks the passing of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a great sage and scholar of Rabbi Akiva. Rabbi Shimon’s teachings and way of life remain a powerful example for us and continue to inspire us to carry forward the legacy of Torah by living its values in our everyday lives.
After spending years studying Torah in a cave, Rabbi Shimon re-entered the community and the world around him wondering “is there anything that can be done to make a difference?” One might think that after spending so much time studying and learning that he would continue to focus on his studies. However, Rabbi Shimon understood that learning is at its best when you can apply it to real life. Ultimately, the purpose of his learning and new knowledge was to use it to serve others and make the world a better place.
While this was Rabbi Shimon’s practice, he became a monumental example of how to live a meaningful, fulfilling, and charitable life. Our studies are at their best when we take that knowledge and wisdom and utilize it to make a difference for those around us. We fulfill our purpose and mission in life by reaching out and making a difference for the people around us.
At the JAA, we take our wisdom and values and do what we can to make a difference for those around us. Being a helping hand, a support system, and a source of kindness is how we share on a regular basis. We share these values with pride as we carry the legacy of giving. May we continue to share and be blessed in the way that we give and make a difference.
-Rabbi Dovid Small