In the lower worlds, “necessity is the mother of invention”. In the higher worlds, “innovation is the mother of invention.” There was no necessity that inspired the kabbalists of Tzfat to invent the Tu B’Shvat seder. It is cold in Tzfat in the winter. A good time to stay home, sit by the warmth of a fire and meditate. Unlike today, for those 16th century kabbalists, creating a seder required a good deal of persevering to preserve nuts or fruits. The only necessity was to be creative, to find ways to express their ideas through new rituals and intentions.
So we gather tonight to preserve an innovation and do a bit of innovating ourselves. Can you still preserve a spot?—yes and we will fill another table for you with delicious fruits, nuts, wine and hot soup.
In the spirit of innovation, I want to also extend an invitation to a special event, a presentation of music and meditation by Rabbi Andrew Hahn, the Kirtan Rabbi. He will come to our center next Thursday night (January 27th). We are delighted to co-sponsor him with Bnai Chavurah, Kohelet and Judaism Your Way.
Expect innovation. It is our necessity.
