By Mindy Rubenstein
Shavuot begins this evening, as we’re reminded of the most powerful moment in our history — when the Jewish people stood together at Mount Sinai and received the Torah, our Divine blueprint for life.
The word Shavuot means “weeks,” referring to the seven weeks of spiritual preparation between Pesach and this moment.
It’s a journey of refining ourselves to be ready for Divine connection.
“A little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness.” (Midrash Rabbah, Bereishit 2:5)
In a world that can sometimes feel confusing or heavy, the Torah gives us clarity, purpose, and direction.
We aren’t meant to be overwhelmed by darkness. We’re here to illuminate it, through simple acts that bring G-d’s presence into our lives.
Here in the Holy Land, living as part of the ongoing story of the Jewish people, we are reminded daily that each of us carries a spark of Sinai.
The Torah was given to every Jew — not only to the great scholars, but to all of us. Every soul stood at Sinai.
Even if you’ve never observed Shavuot before, or aren’t sure where to begin — you can start now, with simple steps:
Light candles for the holiday.
Hear the reading of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 19-20).
Enjoy a dairy meal in honor of the day.
Do a mitzvah — light Shabbat candles, give charity, say Shema, study a few lines of Torah.
Reach out to someone with kindness and encouragement.
Each small act brings light — into your home, into Israel, into the world.
As we spiritually stand again at Sinai, may we feel the renewal of our soul’s mission: to bring more light into the world, one mitzvah at a time.
Chag Shavuot Sameach — Matan Torah Sameach — May your holiday be filled with light and purpose.
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