Netzach into Hod: Generous Second Chances

Omer Week 5: Netzach into Hod

We bow to the week of Netzach,
Giving thanks for its determination,
And expansive vision
And turn ourselves toward Hod,
Presence, Gratitude, Glory, Splendor

This week of the Omer urges us to move slowly,
To practice patience and set an intention to let things unfold in their own time.
There are signs and messengers here to guide us, Hod teaches.
Lift your eyes and let the Infinite Presence show you the way.

And when you are feeling lost and afraid, do your best to be kind and gentle.
You are all tender beings, the Infinite whispers,
And I am right here, in this place, in this moment, always and forever.
As the week of Hod arrives it brings Pesach Sheni, the second Passover.

This designation comes from Temple times.
When someone was unable to bring their Pesach offering to the Temple during the Passover Festival they were given a second chance to bring the offering on the full moon of this month, Iyar, (which arrives this Shabbat).

Pesach Sheni and this whole month of Iyar says:
Give yourself and each other second chances.
Humans make mistakes. We forget what is important. We act without care.
Second chances bring connection and healing.
Second chances are gifts that change us and the world.

As we welcome the week of Hod, may we practice giving ourselves and each other continued opportunities to do good, to make something right, to begin again.

And may this generosity open paths of healing and love.

Love to all,

Rabbi Yael Levy