Dear Friends,
“Eikev” means “Because” or “If.” It’s about actions having consequences; it’s about how what we do matters, and what we think matters. If, eikev, we do this, there will be an impact. If, eikev, we don’t, there will be a different one. Of course, it feels very challenging now in August 2025/Av 5785 to know what action we’re called to take – and what actions are even available. I don’t have all the answers, though I’m actively seeking them, and I’m very curious to hear what routes you’re taking – or even pondering.
I’d like to lift up the work of local poet Herb Levy, who recently gifted me a copy of his new book, Torah, a Template for Healing. It’s deeply spiritual, rooted in Jewish mysticism, and yet almost conversational. The book includes a short poem for every single parsha in the Torah, and for this week’s parsha, Parshat Eikev, full of blessings and curses and curses and challenges, Levy begins with his own challenge.
Ekev by Herb Levy
Praising G!d is lazy.
Praise the way the sun leaks through the thick forest.
Praise the work of the smallest bits.
Without them we could not be.
Praise the wind that refreshes as we work.
Each of these is worth a blessing.
Praise the All for G!d is All.
Praise the hurt that reminds us that healing is not done.
Praise the pain that teaches us not to do that again.
Praise the anger that rises to tell us to work for justice.
Each of these is worth a blessing.
Praise the All for G!d is All.
If laziness is the enemy here, then intensity, specificity, and resolve are our friends. Justice, for all people – including and especially those who are most vulnerable – must be our guiding light. So what pain, fear, or obstacle is reminding us that healing is not yet done? What injustice is rising up to compel us to do work? And what, specifically, are we capable of doing this week? Can we tell friends and family outside the city what’s going on, in case they don’t know? Can we give our unhoused and otherwise vulnerable neighbors some extra support, directly or through an organization like Everyone Home DC or through Mutual Aid? Can we get involved with Free DC to actively work to protect Home Rule?
May we find meaning and connection through whatever faces us this Shabbat – the comforting and the concerning, the routine and the novel, the blessings and the curses. No matter what comes our way, may we find space for togetherness, grounding, and peace. May we find space for Shabbat.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Hannah