They say that there are three kinds of people. Those who can count. And, those who can't.
After the liberation of the Jewish people from Egypt, we are reminded of the significance of counting the days leading up to the momentous occasion when they would receive the Torah and directly hear from Hashem.
Traditionally, when eagerly awaiting an event, we count down: 10 days left, 9 days, 8, and so on. However, in anticipation of their arrival at Mount Sinai to receive the Torah, the Jewish people counted up, starting with one day and progressing until the grand revelation on the 50th day.
This counting was not merely a matter of marking off days on a calendar; it held a deeper purpose. Each day served as a stepping stone—a chance for self-improvement and spiritual refinement. After enduring the mindset of slavery for an extended period, they required these days to cleanse themselves spiritually before encountering G‑d in the most significant event in Jewish history.
Consequently, when the Jewish people finally reached Mount Sinai, they were prepared. They were ready to listen to G‑d's voice, prepared to dedicate themselves to a life guided by the Torah, and willing to repeat this process every year.
This year, our anticipation is further heightened as it is also a year of Hakhel, a special time for gathering and unity within our community. As we conclude the counting of the days leading up to Shavuot, we find ourselves not only ready to receive the Torah, but also eagerly embracing the spirit of Hakhel, coming together as one united body.
We invite you to join us at Chabad of Uptown on Friday morning (complete schedule below), where we will read the Ten Commandments from the Torah scroll, symbolizing our renewed commitment to the eternal teachings of our tradition. Let us celebrate this unique convergence of Shavuot and Hakhel, as we reaffirm our bonds with one another and with Hashem.
And, of course, there will be delightful dairy treats for the entire family to enjoy, fostering a sense of togetherness and joy during this festive occasion.
May this year's celebration of Shavuos, combined with the spirit of Hakhel, bring us even closer as a community and deepen our connection to the timeless wisdom of the Torah.
Good Yom Tov and Good Shabbos,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
P.S. Don't forget to make an eruv tavshilin today!
CHABAD.ORG/NEWS:
All Night From Midnight Learning on Shavuot a Global Destination
Emilio Van Dam is eagerly anticipating the stroke of midnight on the first night of Shavuot as he prepares to participate for the first time in the all-night Torah learning program at Chabad-Lubavitch of Uptown Houston. “We’ve been counting the days since Passover for this,” says Van Dam. “The significance of receiving the Torah on Shavuot morning is deeply meaningful to me, and I want to be fully prepared.”
In recent years, “Tikkun Leil Shavuot,” which has come to refer to the practice of learning Torah all night until daybreak of Shavuot, has been steadily gaining in popularity worldwide, particularly among young adults who are drawn to Chabad programs and events throughout the year. Jewish communities around the world have embraced the tradition, organizing well-caffeinated schedules of Torah lectures and group studying, leading to increasing attendance each year.
Meanwhile, Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, who co-directs Chabad of Uptown with his wife, Chani, is busy finalizing the night learning schedule and assisting speakers in their preparations. “We do a TED-style event,” Lazaroff tells Chabad.org. “Community members share a 15-minute talk on a Torah subject that they are passionate about.”
The TED Talk style has become a favorite, and dozens of Chabad Houses around the world will be hosting similar events. Lazaroff attributes its popularity to the spirit of community it fosters. “People appreciate the opportunity to share and learn from one another. Teaching a subject requires a greater understanding. Plus, we give people a whole schmorg of ideas to choose from and to learn from each other really builds community.” more…
DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA WORTH SHARING?
This Shavuot, add your voice to this unbroken narrative. Come present your Torah Ideas Worth Sharing.
11:30 pm-All Night with Light Refreshments and Free Admission
BE A PARTICIPANT
JEPShavuot features a series of ten-minute power talks showcasing important Jewish ideas that change attitudes and lives. These talk are designed to educate, illuminate, challenge and inspire.
BE A PRESENTER
Have a Torah idea worth spreading? Submit your idea and you might be selected to present your 10 minute Torah talk. Reply to this email with your subject!
Shavuos Grand 3D Experience
Join us for an extraordinary journey as we invite the entire family to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring Shavuos Grand 3D Experience. Prepare to be captivated as children are transported to ancient times after the Ten Commandments are read from the sacred Torah, where they will witness and be amazed by our larger-than-life, interactive Matan Torah experience, featuring a towering Mount Sinai, authentic-sized Luchos, and even a captivating portrayal of Moshe himself. Engage in an enthralling improvisational play, partake in Shavuos-themed games, and prepare for a host of surprises that await you. Don't miss this unforgettable event! Reserve your free spot for Shavuos at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule.
Upcoming Events:
- 🍦 Shavuot, Thursday-Shabbat, May 25-27 🧈: www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
- Thurs., May 25, 11:30 pm Shavuos All Night Learn-A-Thon - For over 3000 years Jews have been studying and expounding the wisdom of Torah. This Shavuot, add your voice to this unbroken narrative. Come present your Torah Ideas Worth Sharing.
- Fri. May 26, 11:15 am Shavuos Reading of Ten Commandments, Shavuos Grand 3D experience followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party - for all ages women, men and children, even babies 30 days old! Featuring a fabulous assortment of Ice Cream, cheesecakes, blintzes, pasta and salad.
- Sat. May 27 11:45 am approx. - Shavuos Yizkor Memorial Service
- Wednesdays, 31 & June 7 – 8-9 pm - CYP ACADEMY: Art of Communication The “Art of Communication” four-part course takes you on an intellectually exciting journey contrasting Jewish thought with scientific discovery to unearth the essence of communication and how to utilize its powers to better ourselves, our relationships, and all of society. www.yjphouston.org/communicate.
- Fri., June 2, 7:30 pm - Israel Shabbat - June First Fridays Enjoy authentic Israeli cuisine with other Young Jewish Professionals over Shabbat Dinner including chummus, falafel, shwarma, and salads galore! www.yjphouston.org/israel
COMPLETE SHAVUOS SCHEDULE WITH CHABAD OF UPTOWN
Make an Eruv Tavshilin
Thank you River Oaks Plant House for the weekly flowers and for this week's beautiful Shavuos Kiddush flower bouquet!
Thursday, May 25, 5 Sivan
Light Yom Tov Candles at 7:56 pm
Mincha & Maariv at 7:55 pm
All Night Learn-A-Thon at 11:30 pm
Lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
Friday, May 26, 6 Sivan
Shacharis at 10:00 am
* 11am-1pm Special childrens' service w/ Shavuos Grand 3D experience featuring games, activities and more!
Reading of Ten Commandments & Party at 11:15 am
followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party!
Sponsored in part by the Pfrenger family, and ice cream bar by Andrew and Elyse Goldstein in honor of her mother Sheindel Miriam, a"h, known as Grandma Shirley
BEFORE 7:56 pm Light Shabbat & Yom Tov Candles from Pre-existing Flame
Mincha & Maariv Holiday Services at 7:55 pm
Shabbos, May 27, 7 Sivan
Chassidus at 9:00 am
Shacharis at 10 am
11:45 am approx. Yizkor Memorial Service
Followed by Shabbos / Yom Tov Lunch Kiddush in memory of Yoseph Gedalia Ben Feigie Henny, may his neshama have an aliyah; and Liebe Chaya Bas Chana, may her neshama have an aliyah.
Mincha at 7:55 pm
Maariv, Havdalla & Yom Tov Ends at 8:55 pm
Living Torah
Good Shabbos & Good Yom Tov!