PEACEThe word "shalom" is core to Jewish life. While we say that the word means "hello," "good-bye" and "peace," it takes on a deeper meaning when connected back to its root: "wholeness." In the face of tragedy, it's important to remember that peace is a Jewish (and worldly) ideal, and that the actions we take should lead the world to completeness, to peace. 1. The whole of the Torah is for promoting peace, as it is written, “Her ways are pleasant, and all her paths peaceful.” Talmud Bavli Gittin 59b 2. God makes shalom between all that exists. If God did not make peace between the opposites (that exist) in the world, The world could not stand… Judah Loew of Prague 3. The work of righteousness shall be peace. Isaiah 32:17 4. Peace, peace to the person that is far away and is near. Isaiah 57:19 5. Adonai will bless God’s people with peace. Psalms 29:11 6. Peace cannot be kept by force. It can only be achieved by understanding. Albert Einstein, Cosmic Religion 1931, page 67 7. The world is established only in peace. Zohar 8. Great is peace, for all blessings are contained in it, as it is written, Seek peace and pursue it (Psalms 34:15). Great is peace, for God’s name is peace Leviticus Rabbah, Tzav, 19:9 9. The law does not command you to run after or pursue the other commandments, but only to fulfill them upon the appropriate occasion. But peace you must seek in your own place and pursue it even to another place as well. Numbers Rabbah, Hukkat 10. Grant true and lasting peace to Your people Israel and to all who live on earth, for You are the supreme Ruler of all peace. May it be good in Your eyes to bless Your people Israel In every season and at all times with Your peace. Blessed are You, Adonai, who blesses Your people Israel with peace. Siddur (prayerbook), Shalom Rav 11. The more tz’dakah the more peace. Pirke Avot 2:7 |
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Jewish Education Center of Cleveland
http://www.jecc.org
Jewish Education Center of Cleveland
http://www.jecc.org