This past Sunday, the Teaneck community experienced a truly special evening and unforgettable event, “From Tsfat to Teaneck: A Kumzitz and Musical Adar Experience.” Organized by Teaneck Together and Ohr Saadya, this gathering transcended geographical boundaries drawing participants from near and far, including places like Monsey, Kiryas Joel and Boston.
Under the warm glow of candlelight, voices harmonized in song, filling the air with melodies that echoed through the hearts of all present. But this event was more than just a musical performance; it was a spiritual journey, a celebration of unity and shared faith led by Rabbi Shalom Lebowitz.
As attendees joined together in song and shared words of Torah, they were reminded of the common thread that binds us all: our connection to Hashem. Regardless of our individual backgrounds or religious observance, we are all part of something greater than ourselves. Each of us carries a spark of the Divine within us, and when we recognize this we can set aside our differences and come together as one community, united in purpose and spirit.
It is no coincidence that this event took place on the week we read Parshat Tetzaveh, which generally is translated as “to command” but also means to bond together. In the parsha the Jewish people are commanded to bring “pure olive oil that was crushed” for the light of the menorah. The Lubavitcher Rebbe teaches that each person has a spiritual potential as represented by oil. Just like an olive needs to be pressed to get out its essence, we too, if pressed or crushed, emit our essence, the light of the Divine that we have within.
This pressing can occur through an external or an internal process with the latter being much more in our control. The more we are able to “crush” the external divides and the physical that seemingly separates us and recognize the beautiful light we have within, the more we can share it with the world and bring light to those around us. That is precisely what was felt this past Sunday night as each participant allowed their light to shine through and illuminate the greater community.
The evening provided a sacred space for reflection and contemplation, allowing attendees to bask in the presence of the Shechina, the divine presence that dwells among us. It was a powerful reminder of the beauty and strength of our shared Jewish heritage, transcending denominational boundaries and fostering a sense of belonging for all who attended.
Teaneck Together and Ohr Saady invite the community to join them for the next community event on Sunday, March 10, Rosh Chodesh Adar II, at 3 p.m., to welcome the renowned band Simply Tsfat. This event, which will take place at the Teaneck Jewish Center, is open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds and aims to bring Jews together regardless of religious practice or affiliation.
Tickets for this special event are available at TeaneckTogether.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy of unity and connection as the community comes together in celebration of our shared heritage.
Dr. Josh Schwarzbaum is a transformative coach and a triple board certified physician in emergency medicine, addiction medicine and emergency medical services. You can lean more about him at www.healthyinside.net.
