Parashat Ki Tavo
Rabbi’s Drosh
A lesson in gratitude! How does the Mitzvah of the First Fruits (Bikorim) relate to our community’s stories in the book Identity and Involvement?
In this week’s Parasha, we read about the important Mitzvah of bring the first fruit as an offering to the Temple while declaring gratitude. When a person had worked the land and produced fruit, they were required to bring their first fruits to Jerusalem.
One of the explanations for why this Mitzvah is so important centres on the risks that come with achievement. This is something that is as relevant to us today as it was then. When we have worked hard and then see the fruits of our labour, there is a temptation to think we are so great and to forget Hashem’s role in our success. This Mitzvah teaches us humility and gratitude.
Ann Gluckman, with her co-editors Lindy Davis and our Rebbetzin Deb, have produced an amazing third edition of the Identity and Involvement series. The book is filled with stories of the inspiring contributions of Auckland Jewry to the Jewish and wider New Zealand community.
Jews make up less than 1% of New Zealand’s population and yet the book is overflowing with a disproportionate list of achievements, generous philanthropy, leadership, and more. When we consider how overrepresented we are in our successes and our contributions, it would be easy to think that these fruits of our labour are due to our talents and hard work alone. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. Without Hashem’s blessings, all our effort and the best intentions will not yield fruit.
Ann Gluckman has generously donated the fruits of her work to the AHC as a sign of gratitude. All proceeds from every book purchased go back into the community. With all Ann has given, it is we who owe her gratitude.
As Rosh Hashanah fast approaches, make your 5781 New Year gift one that also gives back to the community.
Purchase your copy of Identity and Involvement through the AHC office or the Deli - a perfect Rosh Hashanah gift for yourself or for others.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Friedler
The Friedlers’ Highlights
Blowing the Shofar with Preschool
The Kadimah Preschool children were very excited to hear the Shofar this week with the Rabbi. They learned about the High Holy Days and the different sounds of the Shofar.
Blessing for Finding a Lost Object
It was great to hear from so many of you regarding the story of the Rabbi’s Lost (and found!) Kippah. As requested, here is the blessing text in Hebrew and English. It is recommended to give Tzadaka when making this blessing.
Shoshana Sheds Light on Chagim During Covid19
Kol Hakavod to Shoshana Maasland (nee Max) for her article on the challenges navigating the lockdown levels as we approach the High Holy Days.
Friday Night Live - Well done Alice Nathan
Friday Night Live would not be possible without volunteers in our community. This week one of our volunteers was 11-year-old Alice Nathan who stole the show with Yedid Nefesh. Alice has been studying the Friday night service diligently with Deb since January! Please G-d we will celebrate with her in November.
Class on "Wake up calls”
It was wonderful to have so many ladies joining Deb to explore how we can we use the blasts of the Shofar for gratitude, dealing with negative emotions, making decisions and being more connected. In case the men are feeling left out, here is the link to the class!
Back to the Factories in Level 2.5
The Rabbi is making up for lost time with factory visits in level 2.5, starting this week with Green Valley Milk. They make some delicious Kosher dairy products, including the famous Lewis Road Creamery Chocolate Milk.