Lag B’omer - Ancient and Illusive Holiday With Relevancy for Today.

Lag B'Omer is a Jewish holiday that falls on the 33rd day of the Omer count, which is the period of 49 days between the Jewish holidays of Passover and Shavuot. While it may not be as well-known as other Jewish holidays, Lag B'Omer has significant meaning and relevance for us today.

One of the main themes of Lag B'Omer is unity. According to tradition, the holiday commemorates the end of a plague that ravaged the students of Rabbi Akiva in the second century CE. The Talmud tells us that this tragedy occurred because the students did not treat each other with respect and kindness. Lag B'Omer serves as a reminder that we must strive for unity and harmony in our own communities.

Today, this message of unity is more important than ever. In a world where political, social, and religious divisions are becoming increasingly entrenched, it can be easy to forget that we are all part of one human family. Lag B'Omer reminds us that, despite our differences, we must find ways to come together, to listen to one another, and to work towards a common goal.

One of the beautiful aspects of the ancient study in the Yeshiva was that students would sit across from each other and heatedly debate the laws and texts. But at the end of the day, they would wine and dine with each other in friendship and community. Today, many of us cannot even sit and talk with those with whom we disagree.

Lag B'Omer may not be the most well-known of Jewish holidays, but its message of unity is more relevant than ever in our modern world. As we mark this holiday, let us reflect on how we can work to build stronger, more harmonious communities. Let us suggest how we can build bridges toward civility and respect.

Lag B’omer is observed this year on Monday Night/Tuesday May 8th/9th.

Shabbat Shalom

Rabbi Tecktiel