Jan 30 2025 31 mins 4
This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating exploration of the Jewish calendar - a topic that's not just about marking time, but about renewal, liberation, and the very essence of what it means to be Jewish.
In our discussion of Parashat Bo, Rabbi Mintz and I unpack the significance of the first commandment given to the Israelites as a nation: establishing their own calendar. We examine how this seemingly simple act was actually a radical departure from other ancient calendars, and how it embodied core Jewish values of human agency and imperfection.
Some highlights from our conversation:
- Why the lunar-solar Jewish calendar was seen as revolutionary by other cultures
- The deeper meaning behind witnessing the new moon
- How the Essenes and early Muslims viewed the Jewish calendar
- The beautiful tension between divine perfection and human imperfection in our timekeeping
This episode really drove home for me how our calendar reflects so much about our worldview as Jews. I hope it sparks some thoughtful reflection for you too.
Tune in for a mind-expanding journey through time, Torah, and Jewish thought!
Please also be sure and give the Sefaria Source Sheet Link in the notes: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/620499
