Dear readers,
When the Jewish people left Egypt, they were a group of divided, and sometimes bickering, individuals. In seven short weeks of intense preparation, they managed to become a cohesive unit, an undivided nation. When writing of the Jews’ arrival at Mount Sinai, the Torah uses the singular verb, “and he camped,” as opposed to the expected “and they camped” (Exodus 19:2). So united were they at that time that they were considered one person, a comprehensive whole.
During the seven weeks between Passover and Shavuot, we attempt to mirror this growth and transformation. Part of this is achived when we recognize and appreciate the differences in others, when we overlook each other’s weaknesses and embrace our strengths and similarities, when the unison is greater than the divide.
Let’s try to recreate that experience this Shavuot. Imagine the unity enveloping the Jewish nation at Mount Sinai, and try to replicate that in your own personal life.
And take your family—including children, and even infants—to the synagogue and listen to the Ten Commandments being read.
Happy Shavuot.
Miriam Szokovski,
on behalf of the Chabad.org Editorial Team
