Sacred Light
Temple Without Walls is an effort to find light; as in “aha!” or “enlightenment.” I believe this quest for knowledge is, perhaps, the most sacred element of the Jewish spiritual quest.
Sacred literature supports this. The Genesis story begins with the declaration that at first there is light. There can be no universe, no existence without light. Just as the energy of light is required for existence, so the light of knowledge is an essential element of meaning in our lives.
Pursuit of knowledge has a long history in Jewish Culture; not just as an individual effort but as a communal responsibility.
Since the time of King Solomon (app. 3,000 years) parents and/or the larger community have been held responsible for educating their young. Without education the wisdom and inspiration of the past would be lost. Without an accumulated corpus of information there can be no advances in science, philosophy or any other source of truth.
Without such advances neither community nor culture can thrive. The ongoing quest for truth, perhaps, is the singular characteristic of humanity.
There are many sources of truth. Some truths are ancient. These might be ethical or spiritual insights into human nature. Some truths come through inspired moments of sudden insight; such as Albert Einstein’s explosive theories of reality.
Whether we learn from ancient sources or from the most recent science it is our responsibility to continually open our minds to all sources of knowledge with confidence and joy.
What do you think? Can we find ancient sources of knowledge which can help us live worthy and meaning filled lives? What is a worthy life? What makes an event or a lifetime of valued existence?
Share your insights with us.
[Posted for Rabbi Weil]
