With the end of our annual study of the book of Vayikra, or Leviticus, our weekly Torah study has transitioned away from a more in-depth study of laws and moved towards engaging with the narrative of the Israelites and their wanderings in the desert. The Book of Bemidbar (literally, “in the desert”) or Numbers begins with a census of the Israelites, explained in the first few verses of the parasha as a counting of those eligible for military service. Rashi, however, gives a simpler reason for this counting. He explains that God counted the Israelites because “they were dear to him.” Rashi continues to say that this was not the first time that they were counted and goes on to give some more specific examples. 

While we might associate the counting of people as quantitative, especially in regard to enrollment or attendance at an event (say, a gala?) Rashi's comment has me thinking more about a qualitative way of counting. Rashi’s counting speaks more to counting in order to ascertain WHO the people are, what they are capable of, and how they relate to the events that surround said counting. Every time that we have an opportunity to welcome a new family for a visit or tour, or a prospective teammate, there is the potential for our counting to change - not just the number, but the meaning behind each person who is counted. 

In a small, but vibrant community like ours, it is so important that each person counts, that every participant matters. It can be easy to get lost in the overall number, but so worthwhile to look a little closer and find the meaning and responsibility that each of us carries. As we continue to move into the final weeks of the school year, I am grateful for a community where we focus on the strengths, challenges, and needs of the individual and understand the importance behind each person as a part of a group. I am grateful for the opportunities to be in community with each of you and look forward to much more to come. If it has been a while since you have been inside our building and seen us in action, please, be in touch to schedule a visit. We would love to welcome you, learn with you, and show you some of the special moments that fill our school days. 

Wishing you and your loved ones a Shabbat Shalom and a restful weekend, 

Tani Cohen-Fraade

Head of School