Sign In Forgot Password

Monday, 9/21

Today we commemorate the Fast of Gedalia.  In the years following the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash, some Jews of neighboring lands did begin to return to the land and Jewish life began to slowly reemerge under the leadership of Gedalia Ben Achikam who had been appointed as the governor by the Babylonians.  He was murdered on this day by other Jews led by Yishmael ben Netina for political reasons leading to the full exile of even the last remnant of Jews bringing about the total end to Jewish life in the land until the return in the time of the Persians some 70 years later.   This story should remind us of how corrosive infighting among Jews can be and of the importance of the teshuva “ben adam lechavero (interpersonal)” that we are all meant to be engaged in during this time.  This week of Aseret Yemei Teshuva when our lives hang in the balance this story should also remind us of how any singular action that we take can have immense consequences for us and for the world.  May our actions today and all week be great ones!  Have an easy and meaningful fast.

Fri, March 29 2024 19 Adar II 5784