Just a short thought for this Shabbat.
Penance. Personal sacrifice for a loved one or a specific cause. Thanks. Introspection. Honoring a pledge made by a parent or loved one.
There are many reasons why one might choose to make a special vow to Gd, to become a nazir. Some become a nazir for life from their pledge, others have a limited time of service.
It's an interesting concept. One that most of us take for granted. Yet there are probably times on our lives when we have made such pledges to Gd, either without realizing it, or with no real intention of keeping it.
As we dwell on parashat Naso, it's a good time to take stock of the pledges you've made in your own life. How are you doing at keeping them? No one expects us to be perfect, but if we've a pledge or two that has so far turned out to be a lemon, maybe now is a chance to think about setting that right. Pledge really is good for dusting, isn't it?
Shabbat Shalom,
Adrian
©2003 by Adrian A. Durlester
Naso 5759-The Fourth Fold
Naso 5760-Bitter Waters
Naso 5761-Keeping Me On My Toes
Naso 5762-Wondrous Names (Haftarah Naso from Judges)
