Beresheet — New Beginnings

The Torah opens with these words:

In the beginning openings were created so the Divine Presence could be perceived in all.

(Genesis 1:1)

Into the chaos came light.

An expanse spread over the waters

And became sky.

Waters gathered and earth appeared.

Vegetation sprang forth,

Lights filled the heavens

And living creatures came to be.

And then the Mystery said, Let us make humans in our image, in the image of the earth, sky and waters. Let us make humans in the image of the animals, in the image of the creatures of the land, in the image of the birds and of the fish. Let us fill these beings with the fires of creation and form them in the image of all that is good. (Genesis 1:27)

As we come to the edge of another beginning all of creation calls.

Ayeka, Where are you?

Where are you…and who will you be?

How will you live in the truth of these times?

Ayeka, the very first question ever put to human beings.

A question that rings each day,

Where are you?

Who will you be in the truth of these times?

Let us feel the beauty and mystery of creation,

Let us feel each other’s strength and support

And let us feel our potential

To be beings who bring healing through our words and actions.

We stand at the edge of another beginning

Let us take our place for goodness and love.

— Rabbi Yael Levy

25 Tishrei 5780

Rabbi Yael’s newly published book, Directing the Heart: Weekly Mindfulness Teachings and Practices from the Torah, offers short teachings and mindfulness practices for every Torah portion. The book guides us through the year, exploring how Jewish tradition, rituals and practices can help us navigate the blessings and challenges of life.

Directing the Heart begins with this week's Torah portion, Parshat Beresheet, the first in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. Purchase the book to follow along in 5780 starting from the Book of Genesis.

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Listen to this week’s guided meditation podcast with Rabbi Yael about Beresheet.