Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message – October 9, 2025
Judaism has always been deeply attuned to the sky above us. The Jewish calendar doesn’t just keep track of days; it elevates time, making it holy.
In fact, the very first commandment given to the Jewish people as a nation was to establish their own calendar:
“This month shall mark for you the beginning of the months; it shall be the first of the months for you.” — Exodus 12:2
Before the Israelites could leave Egypt, they first had to reclaim their relationship with time. A symbol of slavery is the lack of control over one’s own time. To truly step into freedom, the Israelites had to become masters of their calendar, marking sacred time for themselves.
In ancient days, this wasn’t just an astronomical calculation—it was a communal and spiritual moment. Rosh Chodesh, the celebration of the new moon, was once a significant festival day. Each month began when the first sliver of moon became visible after the dark phase. Observers would watch the sky and, upon sighting the new moon, bring their testimonies to the Sanhedrin, where they were carefully examined. If two reliable witnesses described their sightings consistently, the court would declare the start of the new month.
The entire community lifted its gaze upward, linking heaven and earth through human observation and divine command.
These ancient rhythms still shape our lives today. On Sunday, October 19, as we prepare to welcome the Hebrew month of Cheshvan, we’ll come together to lift our eyes to the sky, just as our ancestors once did.
In Judaism, time is not merely counted; it is consecrated. The moon’s waxing and waning mirror the ebb and flow of our own lives—times of darkness and renewal, contraction and expansion. Gathering beneath Boonshoft’s portable planetarium dome is, in its own way, a continuation of that sacred practice: looking upward to seek meaning, rhythm, and connection in the heavens.
This isn’t just an astronomy lesson—it’s a spiritual act.
We hope you’ll join us.
Details:
An Immersive Adult Celestial Journey
5:30 p.m.
Adults and teens are invited to begin the evening with a nosh in the courtyard and some Jewish framing about our solar-adjusted lunar calendar. Then, we’ll step inside Boonshoft Museum’s inflatable planetarium dome for a stunning guided experience that blends astronomy and Jewish wisdom. Together, we’ll journey through the moon and night sky, uncovering how celestial cycles influence the Jewish calendar and our spiritual lives.
Floor seating is used inside the dome, but chairs and accommodations are available so everyone can participate comfortably.
Children’s Programs: A Space Adventure for All Kids
Earlier in the afternoon, children will enjoy their own interactive planetarium programs, designed to spark wonder and curiosity. They’ll explore the moon and night sky through stories and hands-on learning that connect science and Jewish tradition.
All children are welcome—not just those enrolled in Religious School—so invite friends and neighbors for this special experience!
RSVP Here for the adult session — Space inside the dome is limited!