As the sun sets this evening, we will usher in the holiday of Shavuot, commemorating the day on which G‑d gave us the Torah on Mount Sinai 3318 years ago.
We are told that at Mount Sinai G‑d asked the Jewish People for a guarantor to ensure that the precious gift of the Torah would be eternally kept and properly fulfilled.
"The heaven and the earth shall be our guarantors," the Jewish People responded. But G‑d replied that "they do not suffice."
"Our fathers - Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Surely they will guarantee it," said the people. But again G‑d said, “not good enough.”
Finally the Jewish People exclaimed, “Our children – they will be our guarantors!” Upon hearing this response, G‑d immediately gave us the Torah. “They will be your guarantors”, said G‑d.
From one generation to the next, the unbroken chain from Sinai to the United States has kept the observance of our heritage alive and vibrant for over 3000 years.
As we approach this special holiday, I encourage each and every one to bring the entire family (especially the children) to the listen as the Ten Commandments are read aloud from the Torah this Friday. In so doing we become an active link in the chain, ensuring Jewish continuity for our families and our entire people.
Wishing you and your entire family a Happy and Healthy Shavuot,
Rabbi Raleigh Resnick