THE UNITED JEWISH CONGREGATION OF HONG KONG

SHABBAT SHALOM
23 – 24 May, 2008 19 Iyar, 5768 Parashat Bechukotai
(Leviticus 26:3-27:34)
Rabbi Michael Schwartz
Cantorial Soloist Julie Howard

D’var Torah by Jordan Potash

In this final parsha of the book of Leveticus, all of the previous chapters on obligations, rituals, and
responsibilities, are left behind. This section of Torah opens with a pattern we have become
accustomed to, blessings and threats. We will be blessed if we follow God’s commandments. We
will be punished if we do not. For many, this may immediately bring about feelings of guilt, anger, or
amazement at the simplicity of the assertions.

Do many of us believe that we will be punished or rewarded according to how we live our lives?
Such a stance is particularly troubling given the natural disasters that occurred over the past few
weeks. Were these events Divine punishment or unfortunate incident? How do we believe in a God
and offer prayers in a world where such natural acts occur?

The opening of this portion serves as a reminder that if we follow in God’s way then we can be more
guaranteed a life of balance, and meaning. The teachings provide us with ways to celebrate and
appreciate the good moments. They also give us the resources to cope with and accept the difficult
ones. A reading found in many Reform siddurim (prayer books) is:

Prayer cannot mend a broken bridge, rebuild a ruined city, or bring water to parched fields.
Prayer can mend a broken heart, lift up a discouraged soul, and strengthen a weakened will.

When we offer the true extent of our talents in service to others, we become God’s partners in the
ongoing work of creation and tikkun olam bringing healing to the devastated and instilling hope in the
despondent.

Shabbat Shalom
Jordan Potash

22nd May, 2008

O f f i c e : J e w i s h C o m m u n i t y C e n t r e , 1 R o b i n s o n P l a c e , 7 0 R o b i n s o n R o a d , M i d- Le v e l s , H o n g K o n g
T e l : 2 5 2 3 - 2 9 8 5 • F a x : 2 5 2 3- 3 9 6 1 • W e b : w w w . u j c . o r g . h k • E- m a i l : u j c @ u j c . o r g . h k