In just a few hours we'll start Shabbat and at the conclusion of the Sabbath we usher in Purim. What a wonderful weekend!
Have you ever heard of the phrase, "I'll be there with bells on." Wonder where that may have come from? Perhaps from this weeks Torah Portion (Exodus 27:20 - 30:10) where G-d commanded that the hem of the garments worn by the Kohen Gadol (the high priest) should have bells sewn on it. Why? So that "His sound should be heard...." as he entered into the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur. Why? We are told it is because the priest was not announcing that he was there he was asking for permission to enter.
It is a sign of respect to not just barge into a room but to ask permission or at least knock. Especially when you come fact to face with Hashem. This is why our prayer service is structured the way it is. We simply do not barge into a meeting with G-d. We sing praises and announce our intent to worship.
We don't just dive into our food. We take a moment to offer a blessing. Why? Because it is proper and it is....civil.
In today's world we should never be too busy to be civil and polite.
Following Shabbat we usher in the holiday of Purim. The Book of Esther is an amazing story. It is all about G-d but we never mention his Name...once. Because Purim is such a wonderful holiday filled with promise and joy here's a quick video to celebrate:
May you all have a wonderful Shabbat and a Happy Kosher Purim!