I want to be closer!

I want to be closer!

Every now and then I get a call from someone looking to move to Harford County. They want to know what Jewish life is like in the area. They heard about the beautiful community and want to ensure that there is enough Judaism for them and their families to remain connected.

There is a similar story that happens with our forefather Yaakov. Yaakov prepares his family to move to Egypt, to be closer to his son Yosef who was viceroy in Egypt. Prior to his move, he sends his son Yehuda to establish "a house of study, from which teaching would emanate." Only after would he move to Goshen.

Goshen is the name of the area in Egypt that Yaakov and his family moved to. It also can be translated as "please come close" (גשו נא). People ask: how can I come close to G-d? I know G-d wants to be close, but how do I, a simple person, create a close relationship with G-d who is infinite? The answer, says Yaakov, is to ensure you have created a special space where you can study Torah and pray. This way you can connect with G-d in a meaningful way.

We learn about the first Jewish institution, the Yeshiva of Goshen. The Yeshiva’s mission statement: create closeness with G-d.

How?

Teaching, Studying and Praying.

Do you want to be closer to G-d?

Have a good Shabbos!
Rabbi Kushi Schusterman