D'var Torah - March 26, 2010

D'var Torah - "Shabbat HaGadol – The Great Shabbat"   March 26, 2010

Rabbi Mark S. Kram, Temple Beth Or, Miami, FL

 

 

The Shabbat before Passover is called Shabbat HaGadol in commemoration of the "great miracle" that happened in Egypt on this day, heralding the Exodus from Egypt. Shabbat HaGadol customs include reading a portion of the Haggadah (from "Avadim hayinu..." to "...al kol avonotainu"), which tells the story of the Exodus; it is also customary that the rabbi of the community delivers a lecture in which s/he elaborates on the laws of Passover and their significance, in preparation for the festival. One humorous explanation for the name of this Sabbath is that the word "gadol" meaning "great" or "big" refers to the length of the rabbi's sermon that was traditionally delivered on this special occasion. (Can’t wait!)

 

This is the big holiday. The one that defines Jewish history, the holiday that points to the seminal event that creates us as a people – and a nation. Leading us to Sinai, and eventually to the Holy Land. 

The build up to this Shabbat has been gradual – including the 3 Shabbatot preceding today. Now, spiritually, we are “ready.” For what? Eating a large dinner together with family and friends? Putting aside the bread for the week? Remembering that we’re Jews for the week rather than for just a day (Rosh Hashanah or Shabbat) or an evening (Chanukah) or a moment.

 

Carrying these Passover-thoughts, a Passover-mindset, focuses our attention on our own personal commitments, our relationship with our Judaism. It offers us a unique opportunity to think and to live Jewishly for the week. To do differently.

As we move from slavery of old habits or “the rut” to new possibilities and new lives as free people – free to explore and broaden our Jewish perspective – we open ourselves up. To what are YOU open this year? How will this Passover make a difference – a REAL difference – in your life this year.

 

Hag Kasher v’Sameach! May this Passover be stellar for you and your family!

Mark  
Rabbi Mark Kram