Shavuot
Thunder, Lightning & Shofar
This week we will celebrate the Holiday of Shavuot and the anniversary of the giving of the Torah at Sinai.
In examining the verses describing the events at Sinai, we find two descriptions of loud sounds accompanying the revelation. The sound of thunder and lighting and the sound of a Shofar.
"It came to pass on the third day when it was morning, that there were thunder claps and lightning flashes, and a thick cloud was upon the mountain, and a very powerful blast of a Shofar, and the entire nation that was in the camp shuddered." (Exodus 19:16)
The Abarbanel finds very strong symbolism in these two different descriptions,and points out although these were both extremely loud sounds, it was the Shofar in particular that caused the Jewish people to react strongly.
The thunder and lighting, he says, represent philosophical advances and ideas, which seem compelling at times, but often dissipate quite quickly, like a flash of lighting. This, says the Abarbanel, is akin to a student of Plato being refuted by an idea from the teachings of Aristotle.
On the other hand, the sound of the Shofar reminds us of the existence of G‑d, not solely through intellectual pursuit, but factoring in the idea of revelation as well. Knowing that G‑d exists through the revelation at Sinai.
This concept is emphasized a few verses later as Moshe is begins to speak. The thunder and lighting have ceased, and what remains is the sound of the Shofar; "The sound of the shofar grew increasingly stronger" (19:19)
This reminds us that the impact felt at Mount Sinai was due to the revelation of G‑d, which the Jewish people saw and heard, and which we carry through with us to this very day.
Chag Sameach!
Portuguese Jewish history is a rich tapestry of accomplishment and challenge spanning the centuries. Portugal's shores have produced and housed some of our greatest Rabbis and leaders. From statesman, leader and scholar Rabbi Don Yitzchak Abarbanel to Shulchan Aruch author Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 15th century through to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's time in Lisbon in 1941, Portugal has enabled tremendous developments in strengthening community and Torah.
It is in recognition of the timeless nature of these commitments, and in honor of all of those Jews who have called Portugal home through times of brilliance and darkness, that these Torah insight's from Portugal's great Rabbis is produced - here in Portugal.
Special thanks to Rabbi Shlomo Pereira for the Portuguese translation.