Welcome to our 3
rd
Annual
50 Day Meditation and
Middot
Challenge
!
I am so glad you have signed up. This challenge takes place during the seven-week period between the holiday of Passover (which celebrates our liberation from Egypt) and Shavuot (which celebrates our receiving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai). In Jewish tradition, this time is known as
Sefirat HaOmer
, the Counting of the Omer.
In ancient days, this period marked the beginning of the barley harvest when Jews would bring the first sheaves to the Temple in Jerusalem as an expression of gratitude to God for their harvest. The word
omer
means “sheaf,” and refers to these early offerings. After the destruction of the Temple, when Jews could no longer bring a physical offering to God, the custom was transformed to a time of counting the days between Passover and Shavuot. Each day, from the second day of Passover through Shavuot, is counted by saying a special blessing. These days are now also marked as a time for personal self-discovery and growth.
This year’s challenge also finds us in the midst of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic which will certainly add a new dimension to our counting and our practice. Knowing that we are opening ourselves to the possibility of change during this time of uncertainty and fear can ground us and perhaps even bring a sense of calm and peace. This year’s seven
middot
of silence, honor, compassion, generosity, awe, simplicity and trust are all qualities that can help us as we navigate how we wish to meet each day during this challenging time.
Finally, it is my sincere wish that as we embark upon these days, we feel the support of this virtual community who are all undertaking this challenge together, reminding us that we are not alone.
