Since childhood we have heard the story, seen the movie, maybe even read the text of the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. The Torah describes this moment in detailed and vibrant language in the book of Exodus beginning in chapter 19. It is a most startling description that seems like it would certainly get your attention.

"And it came to pass on the third day, when it was morning, that there were thunders and lightning and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of a horn exceeding loud; and all the people that were in the camp trembled." Exodus 19:16

What follows in chapter 20 is that famous list of ten norms of behavior and community that serve as the core of all of the 613 Mitzvot, reflecting and defining Jewish values and behavior.

Beyond the story, is the hope repeated in the Midrash which teaches that every Jew to ever live, and who ever will live, stood at Mount Sinai when the Jews received the Torah. In a metaphoric sense, if every Jew stood at Mt. Sinai then, every Jew can return to it today - to a life of Jewish meaning and action.

Each year on Shavuot we relive the wonder and challenge of Sinai. Each year as we join in our Confirmation Service on Shavuot, we welcome yet another generation moving forward from Sinai.

Please join us on Sunday evening June 8 at 7 p.m. to stand once again at Sinai and be inspired to reconfirm your Jewish life.

See you at Temple!
Rabbi Laurence A. Kotok