Turning Symbol into Action- July 23, 2010

Shabbat Shalom!
“Bind them as a sign upon your hand; let them be a symbol (or as “frontlets”) between your eyes. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
I can remember reciting these words with “thy” instead of “your” as I read from the Union Prayer Book I during Sabbath services at my home congregation, so much so that I can now type them by heart (as many people could). What comes to mind for most people when reading this passage are t’filin, which are worn on the arm and head, and the mezuzah, which is displayed by one’s front door at home and perhaps on inside doorways as well.
Some commentators suggest that there is another level to this passage. “Bind them as a sign upon your hand” can mean “apply the teachings of your heritage in the work of your hands.” “Let them be a symbol between your eyes” can mean “see the world, your relationships, and your own behavior through the lens of these commandments, which can lead you on a positive and productive path in life.” “Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your (city) gates” can mean “let what happens inside your home and in your city – how people act and how they treat each other – reflect the best of the teachings that have been passed down to you.”
So as we think about commandments that direct us to fairness, justice, compassion and treating each other with generosity and equity, may our recitation of these ancient words from the Torah be matched in all that we do, as members of families and communities, so that we help build a world founded in love and understanding.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Larry