The Jewish People and the New Moon

Just as transforming the world is expressed in the idea of the new moon, so too are the Jewish people compared to the moon. Just as the moon is referred to as the small luminary so too are the Jewish people referred to as small.

Who shall arise [with] Jacob, for he is small? Amos 7:2

Just as the world must be refined so too must the Jewish people refine themselves as well. This is expressed in the concept of calculation and testimony.

1. A person must serve G-d with their rational and calculated mind. When a person serves G-d with their rational mind, they transform their own identity to serve G-d. This is expressed in calculation.
2. A person must serve G-d with their supra-rational. It is not enough to serve G-d with one’s mind, a person must serve G-d with their soul as well. This is expressed in testimony which is not rational.

May we internalize these two aspects of our G-dly service, and from there, raise the entire world to a state in which G-d’s presence is felt throughout!

(Based on Likutei Sichos 22, Bo 2, reworked by Rabbi Dovid Markel. To see other projects and to partner in our work, see: www.Neirot.com.)