Tonight we light the 3rd candle. Our question for tonight’s lighting is: What 3 musicians, poets, or artists inspire you?
Many of us turn to art, poetry, and music for inspiration and light. It is so important to nurture the creative sides of ourselves. Music and poetry and art express what is often difficult to capture in words. With a poem, there are multiple meanings, and often one line can be a guiding light. Music can be of enormous solace, either by lifting us up or by connecting with a particular state of mind.
Bezalel, Judaism’s first artist and craftsperson was chosen by God to create the traveling mishkan (tabernacle) in the desert. He was endowed with certain skills. About Bezalel, Rabbi Jon Rosove writes: “The Torah and tradition present Bezalel as brilliant in mind, a master craftsman and architect, seasoned by life’s experiences, open-hearted and open-minded to the insights of his fellows, inspired by God, and graced with perception of the laws and truths at creation’s core.”
From ancient times until today, artists bring heart and soul together to create something new. Tonight, we honor the creativity that lights up our lives.
3rd night of Hanukkah question:
What 3 musicians, poets, or artists inspire you?
Here are mine. I hope you will add yours to the comments.
- Cello music speaks to my soul. The plaintive, heart-stirring instruments seem to resonate in a deep way for me. That is why I am so excited that this year, we are inviting cellists Daniel and Carey Domb to our Mindful Hanukkah Shabbat! I hope you can come. Register here.
- My colleague and friend Rabbi Pam Wax published a glorious book of poetry this year. She was our guest this year for a Poetry evening. Her poetry actually makes me gasp in wonder. R. Wax wrote these poems in the aftermath of her brother’s suicide. She weaves in Jewish text and concepts with a deep sensitivity to our human condition. You can find her book, Walking the Labyrinth, here.
- A new musician that has been in my playlist of the year is the enormously talented Aly Halpert. Her song She is On Her Way has been on replay for me. Her wonderful voice and her powerful lyrics assure that she is a new star in our world.
For the Hanukkah candle blessings, click here.
Come join us for a Mindful Hanukkah Shabbat with cellists Daniel and Carey Domb on 12/23, please click here.
Rumi is my favorite person to read when I need inspiration. There is a s a woman who Can just discovered. Her poetry has s so powerful! I purchased the one on Loss since I recently lost my beloved partner. This poets name is Donna Ashworth. Her books are now available in the US. I ordered mine from the UK.