Rabbinic Reflection: Rabbi Samuel Kaye

Chanukah’s Light Begins with Those Nearest to Us

In the Talmud, Bava Metsia 71a, our sages teach there are circles of care that we, as Jews, need to prioritize. First, you are obligated to care for the poor of your family, then the poor of your community, then the poor of your city, and finally the poor who dwell far away from you. Many of our Rabbis have taught this axiom, that when these intimate relationships are protected and honoured, there is more available to everyone. And when we stretch our attentions outwards, ignoring those intimate bonds, there is ultimately less for all.  

This month, I would like to highlight two opportunities to enrich these local and intimate relationships through acts of tzedakah and care.  

The first is our Winter 5 Drive. Last year, the generosity of our congregation was unbelievable. We received an incredible number of new and gently used hats, scarves, winter jackets, boots and gloves. More impressive than the number of donations was the quality. The Janis Rotman Tzedakah Centre overflowed with well-made, sturdy, and beautiful clothes, which helped newcomer Israelis settle into their first winter and a new life here in Toronto.  

From December 7th-13th, we are once again collecting the ‘Winter 5’! Please donate your new or gently used hats, scarves, winter jackets, boots and gloves to us! You can place them directly into the Janis Rotman Tzedakah Centre, which is found on your left-hand side when you enter the building through our main entrance. Whether they be clients at Ve’ahavta, guests through Out of the Cold, or newcomers through JIAS, this year we are prioritizing taking care of those in need who are closest to us.  

The second opportunity is a chance for us to do right by our entire riding, by engaging in respectful and open dialogue with our Member of Parliament. On Sunday morning, December 14th, MP Leslie Church will join us for a neighbourhood check-up outside of Holy Grounds. It has been a long-standing tradition for Holy Blossom Temple to be a meeting place for our riding, where constituents and elected officials can model civic engagement.  

MP Church has shared her excitement to hear from you! Please pick up a coffee, tea, or delicious baked good from our own Holy Grounds Café and join the conversation! She will join us for an informal gathering from 10:00 am onward. Demonstrating our passion and love for this small section of our world is just one more way that we can strengthen the bonds that keep our community and our city safe and whole.  

We look forward to seeing you there!